At around 4:30am on February 1st my husband Kiel received a call that his small self-run Welding and Fabrication business, KBI, had gone up in flames. When he arrived, the firefighters were already at work trying to put the flames out, informing him that his business of 12 years had fallen victim to arson.

Shortly after the fire was out, he was only able to walk the grounds. Unable to go inside due to the damage and safety hazards, while walking the grounds he began seeing the damage. Not only was the shop damaged due to the fire and water needed to put out the flames, but most of the equipment used and collected over the years was completely destroyed. Along with almost all of the machines and tools being destroyed so were many irreplaceable, rare, and sentimental items inside the shop and his office.

Kiel is always there to help others when they are in need, all while expecting nothing in return. Always there to give advice or provide guidance to anyone regarding anything from welding to car maintenance/mechanics and lend a helping hand. Kiel has always been someone who has gone above and beyond, not only in his personal life but also in his professional life as well, by providing consistent above standard experience. His hard work and dedication to his craft has created strong bonds within the welding and car community, making this loss not only a professional one but a personal one.

As of now, February the 2nd Kiel is in the beginning stages of clearing out rubble and cleaning what little is salvageable. Due to the damage to the office, shop, building and equipment the long process of completely starting over is ahead of him and any donations that you are able to pass along will be put towards him rebuilding his business, KBI from the ground up.

We know times are tough for so many of us so I understand that donating is not always possible, but even something as small as a share can help in reaching our goal. Anything and everything will be greatly appreciated. Thank you for taking the time to read a little bit about Kiel and his small self-run business.