Brian Wannarka was born in 1965 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. In 1967, after his father, Darrell Wannarka, was discharged from the U.S. Army, the family returned to their hometown area of Fairmont, Minnesota.
While attending Fairmont High School, Brian purchased his first dream vehicle—a Mustang—in 1982. To pay for it, he began working as a mechanic at Blachowske Truckline, where he quickly developed a strong interest in diesel mechanics and semi repair. After graduating from Fairmont High School in 1984, Brian continued his education by attending diesel mechanics trade school through Blachowske Truckline, further strengthening his skills and passion for the trade.
In 2000, Brian moved to the family farm originally owned by his grandparents, shortly after the birth of his second daughter. The following year, in 2001, he founded Brian Wannarka Repair and Welding, turning years of hands-on experience into a business built on hard work, reliability, and craftsmanship.
Brian Wannarka Repair and Welding was established in 2001 by Brian and his then-wife, Sophia, operating from the family farm. Brian initially worked alone before adding longtime coworker Martin Serna in 2003. In 2008, Brian hired his nephew, Michael Wannarka, who now manages the shop. In 2015, his youngest daughter, Cassidy Wannarka, joined the company as secretary. In 2022, after 21 years of steady growth and hard work, Brian achieved a major milestone by building a larger, better-equipped dream shop—marking the next chapter in the company’s success.
Founded in 2013, Wannarka Excavating expanded operations on the family farm to better serve the surrounding community. The business specializes in concrete recycling, accepting concrete from both residential and commercial customers. This material is crushed and repurposed for driveways, building pads, and other construction needs.
In addition to recycling services, Wannarka Excavating offers a wide range of excavation solutions, including building and grain bin demolition, tree removal, culvert and driveway installation, and complete site preparation for basements and new construction. From initial groundwork to final prep before concrete is poured, Wannarka Excavating delivers reliable, efficient service you can count on.