Meet Tom and Marilyn Rethemeyer

Tom Rethemeyer learned his craft under the tutelage of skilled German craftsmen, who restored and duplicated moldings, millwork and cabinetry in 19th-century buildings in and around Hermann, Missouri.

In 1990, Tom opened Rethemeyer Custom Woodwork in his backyard garage. Today, the business occupies a 3,750 square-foot building in the Hermann Industrial Park.

Rethemeyer Custom Woodwork, Inc. is a full-service shop that works with all types of wood and finishes, including staining, painting, glazing, distressing, hand painting, and faux finishes. A line of factory-made cabinetry also is available, along with countertops, hardware and accessories.

Marilyn Rethemeyer, Tom’s wife, who has a degree in drafting and design, is the office manager and works with clients during the design phase of the project. Her detailed CAD renderings help clients envision the finished job.

Customer satisfaction is our number-one goal

Meticulous attention to detail goes into every job at Rethemeyer Custom Woodwork. Client satisfaction is our number-one goal. Here’s how the process usually works:

Step One. The design process begins with a visit to the Hermann showroom. Tom and Marilyn want clients to know exactly what to expect. Planning sessions start with the big picture and move on to the details—from door styles and type of wood to finishes and accessories.

Step Two. The client receives a floor plan, perspective drawings and a bid, which includes a base price for cabinets and a separate list of accessories from which to pick and choose. It usually takes two or three rounds of revisions to get every detail just right.

Step Three. Work begins with meticulous on-site measurements. Tom selects wood for grain matching and even color. All furniture pieces use mortise and tenon joinery—no nails or staples. Light-colored stains allow the full beauty of the wood to show through. Catalyzed finishes are tough, highly chemical resistant, and silky-smooth inside and out.

Step Four. Cabinets are professionally installed. Seams are made tight and flush, and cabinets and shimmed and plumbed for a perfect fit. Tom is experienced at working with other contractors and respects the importance of meeting deadlines.