b'A FAREWELL TO VERN EARDLEYA KORTE PIONEER Timing has a way of shaping great stories. For The Korte Company, one such moment came in 1969 when Vern Eardley stopped by Ralph Kortes new office in Highland, Illinois, to say hello. That visit turned into a handshake that would help define the next half-century of our companys history. From the day he submitted his first bidbefore his official start dateVern set a standard of integrity, innovation and hard work that helped turn a small-town construction outfit into something extraordinary.Over three decades, Vern guided The Korte Company through remarkable growth, championing new technology, smarter project management and a people-first culture that still defines us today. Ralph often said we wouldnt be who we are without Verns insight, loyalty and steady hand. Everyone who worked with him would agree. May he rest in peace.42 43'