Harkins Plumbing and Heating was established in April 1919 by Frank Brettschneider and in 1923 moved to 108 S Lakeshore Dr in Lake City. In 1930 “Brett” needed help so he contacted his brother-in-law Ray Harkins, a plumber in St. Paul. Ray, his wife Lottie and son Larry moved to Lake City permanently. Larry Harkins began working in the business in 1940. He and his wife Virginia bought the business from his uncle Brett in 1953. Larry’s son Tom began working in 1971. In 1985 Tom and Margie Harkins bought the business from Larry. Larry’s son Jim started working in 1981 and Jim and Rhonda Harkins purchased the business from Jim’s brother Tom in 1997. The business moved to its current location at 1255 N 7th St in Lake City in 2004.
On 1/1/26, Jim and Rhonda’s daughter and son in law, Baxter and Emmy O’Reilly purchased the business. The team now consists of Baxter O’Reilly with 6 years of experience, Jim Harkins with 45 yrs of experience, Dave Glomski with 23 years of experience, Gavin Roosen with 4 years of experience, and new hire this year, Danny Keller.
Jim and Rhonda Harkins feel fortunate to be able to continue the business by passing it on to family.
Baxter O’Reilly feels that it’s an honor to be able to carry on the family business and uphold the values that have been passed down through generations of owners and employees past and present. Baxter feels that he is lucky to have 107 years of expertise and knowledge on his side.
Baxter is looking to modernize and be efficient in all aspects. He looks to focus on the customer’s experience and tailor all jobs to the best of their ability to ensure that their customers feel appreciated and well taken care of.
Harkins Plumbing and Heating offers financing on any job over $1000.
Services they provide are:
New construction; residential, commercial and agricultural
Water heaters
Water softeners
Iron filters
Remodels
All water treatment
Heating
Gas lines
