It had been years since the small unincorporated community of Grass Creek had seen a business that was opened to the public before Patrick and Brooke Rentschler first bought the current building for Grass Creek Lumber in 2015. 

The Rentschler's had already dabbled in the entrepreneur world after they had started a furniture repair and refinish shop in 2012, B&E Creations and Restorations. With 20 years of experience in the lumber business, however, the newly aquired pole barn at 7279 South State Rd 17 opened a door for the couple when they decided to open Grass Creek Lumber in 2021. 

Word on the business has spread over the last three years along with the Rentschler's reputable skill in millwork. The business has turned into a full-time job. After opening shop, Rentschler realized Northern Indiana had been an empty hole for lumber and millwork shops. Because of this Grass Creek Lumber not only serves customers from local areas like Rochester, Winamac, Knox, North Judson. It also began expanding to serve most of the northwestern part of the state.. In fact, Renschler said that more than half of his customers are from towns in the Chicagoland area like Chesterton, Hammond, Gary, and Michigan City. 

Rentschler has stayed busy since the beginning of the year by making, literally, miles of custom made trim for door and window casings, crown molding, baseboards, and more.  

Rentschler says the season of home improvements has already kicked off with spring right around the corner. While official open hours and days at Grass Creek Lumber vary, Rentschler says he is typically in the area for customers wanting to stop by and check out the inventory. Customers interested in stopping by, or looking for more information on products can call Rentschler at 574-992-1648, or check out the Grass Creek Lumber Facebook page.