By Crystal Warner

John LaRock Sr. has been the owner of Ann Arbor Air Duct Cleaning for more than 30 years. The qualities, which account for his longevity, are simple – honesty, reliability and a dedication to his customers.

John was born in Rhode Island. His father had worked with Rhode Island Corning Glass Works for more than 27 years. After John’s father retired, the family moved to Massachusetts. John greatly admired his father’s self-determination, his father led by example. Even after retirement, John’s father owned a knife sharpening service and worked in their community, remodeling homes.

Throughout his childhood, John dreamed of living in Michigan. “I was always fascinated by the Great Lakes; that’s what drew me to Michigan,” he says. John joined the Army National Guard at age 17. After contributing six years to the service, he took up permanent residence in Ann Arbor. John met, Cindy, and they have been married for more than 30 years. They have two children, a son, John, and a daughter, Kathryn.

Ann Arbor Air Duct Cleaning has been in business since 1976. John provides services for commercial, industrial and residential customers throughout Washtenaw and Livingston Counties. Operating a truck mounted with HVAC equipment and high-powered brushes, John is a specialist in improving the air quality in homes and businesses. “Air duct cleaning is often recommended by doctors,” he explains, “especially for the elderly and people with respiratory problems.”

John insists upon building strong relationships with the people who rely upon him. “I really feel that business is about mutual respect, I tend to treat everyone like family,” he smiles and continues, “not enough people are willing to go out of their way for their customers; and it’s not always easy.” “We are insured, trusted and bonded,” John adds, “building trust requires a business owner to be punctual and to stick by their word.” “In addition,” he says, “business ownership involves a determination to do the right thing and to be completely upfront and honest.” In John’s experience, a smile and the gesture of simple courtesy are the initial stepping-stones to building lasting business relationships.

John is entirely optimistic about the future of small businesses in Michigan. Although, the current financial climate has had a slight impact on Ann Arbor Air Duct Cleaning, he is confident his business will weather the storm. In the meantime, John continues to be readily available to his customers; including 24-hour availability for emergency services.

With the arrival of spring in Michigan, he anticipates a busy season of spring cleaning. John enjoys his profession, but his real passion is riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle. Often, during the spring or early summer months, he enjoys taking the 16 hour ride east to visit family back home in Vermont. Active members of St. Patrick’s Church in Ann Arbor, the LaRocks, contribute greatly to the well-being of their community. John expresses immense gratitude for the blessings in his life. His wife and children serve as the motivation for his success, including their 2-year-old granddaughter, Jordis, the apple of her grandpa’s eye.

If you found this story interesting, informative or inspiring please let John know!

Ann Arbor Air Duct Cleaning
John LaRock, Sr.
6655 Jackson Rd. #28
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Phone: 734-320-2260