A Legacy of Family and Craftsmanship
Founded in 2000 by John Fitzpatrick and Frank Dolan, Rockaway Construction has grown from a small carpentry venture to a respected name in the construction industry. Our story is one of family, friendship, and a shared commitment to quality craftsmanship.
John Fitzpatrick and Frank Dolan, co-founders of Rockaway Construction
The Early Years
The roots of Rockaway Construction trace back to the late 1970s when Frank Dolan married Helen Fitzpatrick, John's sister, in 1979. This union brought the two families closer, setting the stage for a partnership that would span decades.
In 1982, John Fitzpatrick returned to his birthplace in California, with Frank following suit in 1986. Both men saw the Golden State as a land of opportunity for their growing families. As their children grew up together, the bonds between the Fitzpatricks and Dolans only strengthened.
Building a Foundation
In 1990, John and Frank found themselves working side by side in the carpentry division of Westlake Village Apartments. Their combined skills and work ethic quickly earned them respect among peers and supervisors alike. This experience laid the groundwork for what was to come.
The Birth of Rockaway Construction
After a decade of honing their craft and building a strong partnership, John and Frank took a leap of faith in 2000. They founded Rockaway Construction, channeling their passion and expertise into creating a company that would stand for quality and precision in carpentry.
The early years were challenging, but their complementary skills and unwavering support for each other saw them through. As the company grew, so did their families, with both men taking active roles in their children's lives, often coaching sports teams together.
Two Decades of Growth and Success
Over the next twenty years, John and Frank led Rockaway Construction to new heights. Their commitment to quality workmanship, integrity, and customer satisfaction helped build a strong reputation in the community. The company expanded its services and took on increasingly complex projects, all while maintaining the personal touch and attention to detail that had been its hallmark from the beginning.
A New Chapter
After two decades of hard work and dedication, Frank stepped back from day-to-day operations in 2020, with John following suit in 2022. In the fall of 2023, they made the decision to sell Rockaway Construction, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for the company.
Our Continuing Legacy
While John and Frank have moved on to enjoy their well-earned retirement, their spirit of craftsmanship, integrity, and community involvement remains at the heart of Rockaway Construction. Under the leadership of Sheena and Sean, we are committed to honoring the legacy of our founders while driving the company forward into a bright future.
As we embark on this new chapter, we remain dedicated to the core values that have defined Rockaway Construction from the beginning: exceptional workmanship, strong relationships, and a commitment to serving our community. We look forward to continuing to build and grow, both in our projects and in our connections with the people and places we serve.
Our Founders in Retirement
While John Fitzpatrick and Frank Dolan have stepped away from the day-to-day operations of Rockaway Construction, they continue to lead rich and fulfilling lives in retirement. John is enjoying his newfound free time by traveling extensively with his wife, indulging in his passion for playing the guitar, and perfecting his golf swing. He's also become quite the entertainer, often hosting gatherings where he can showcase his love for cooking. Frank, on the other hand, is embracing the great outdoors through hiking and frequent trips to his cabin. He's also staying active by playing soccer and cherishing moments with his grandchildren. Both men's vibrant retirements reflect the passion and zest for life that they brought to Rockaway Construction for over two decades.
