Oscar C. Boldt, the third-generation leader of The Boldt Company, the Wisconsin-based general contractor with 14 offices across the U.S., passed away June 9 from natural causes at the age of 96.
Boldt, known to friends and business associates as O.C., had been with the company his grandfather, Martin, founded in 1889 for 72 years. Over more than half a century, Boldt transformed a family business that once teetered on the verge of bankruptcy into one of the country’s largest construction firms that generates around $1 billion in annual revenue and employs 2,000 workers.
“Oscar built a business based on honesty, and fairness, hard work, performance and a passionate love for construction,” said President and COO Dave Kievet. “These are principles that guide our team members on a daily basis and are the foundation of our culture.”
Boldt’s son Tom, the company’s CEO, who with his mother, Pat, was at his father’s side when he died, noted that Oscar maintained a deep connection with the organization. “He loved the company and the positive impact it has had on so many customers and communities. He was excited about what we will be capable of in the future. And, he wanted us to have fun doing it.”
NOTED PHILANTHROPIST
A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he earned a civil engineering degree, Boldt served as a B-24 navigator in the Air Force during World War II. After the war, he joined the company, and assumed its leadership reins from his father, Oscar J. Boldt, in 1950.
During his tenure, The Boldt Company, headquartered in Appleton, Wis., built many local landmarks, including the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, and multiple healthcare facilities.
Aside from his business achievements, Boldt was a philanthropist. According to local news reports, he and his wife—who married in July 1949—regularly donated half of his annual income to church, charities, colleges, and local arts organization. They also served on numerous nonprofit boards, including the Appleton Medical Center.
Boldt’s accolades include honorary degrees from Ripon College and Lawrence University, and a Distinguished Contractor Award from the American Society of Civil Engineers. In 2000 he was inducted into the Paper Industry International Hall of Fame.
The family is planning a private funeral and memorial service for a later date.
Related Stories
Energy | Jul 13, 2022
Electrification of buildings, new and old, furthers environmental responsibility and equity
It’s almost a cliché in our industry, but nonetheless: The greenest building is the one that is already built.
Building Team | Jul 13, 2022
Austin’s newest entertainment and hospitality complex has been made from repurposed shipping containers
A new entertainment and hospitality complex in Austin, The Pitch, has been made out of repurposed shipping containers.
Codes and Standards | Jul 12, 2022
USGBC sets out principles for LEED’s future
The U.S. Green Building Council recently published a report containing principles outlining how LEED will evolve.
Building Team | Jul 12, 2022
10 resource reduction measures for more efficient and sustainable biopharma facilities
Resource reduction measures are solutions that can lead to lifecycle energy and cost savings for a favorable return on investment while simultaneously improving resiliency and promoting health and wellness in your facility.
Office Buildings | Jul 12, 2022
Miami office tower nears completion, topping off at 55 stories
In Miami, construction of OKO Group and Cain International’s 830 Brickell office tower is nearing completion.
University Buildings | Jul 11, 2022
Student life design impacts campus wellness
As interior designers, we have the opportunity and responsibility to help students achieve deeper levels of engagement in their learning, social involvement, and personal growth on college campuses.
Museums | Jul 11, 2022
Denmark opens a museum that tells the stories of refugees worldwide
Located on the site of Denmark’s largest World War II refugee camp, the new Refugee Museum of Denmark, FLUGT, tells the stories of refugees from the camp as well as refugees worldwide.
Codes and Standards | Jul 8, 2022
Inefficient supply chains, outdated project delivery systems hamper construction investment
Constructing and justifying the cost of physical assets such as a manufacturing plant is much more difficult than it was decades ago, according to a report by Steffen Fuchs, senior partner with McKinsey & Company.
Airports | Jul 8, 2022
Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport’s new terminal prioritizes passenger experience and sustainability
McCarthy Building Companies recently completed construction of the final concourse in Terminal 4 at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
Building Team | Jul 7, 2022
Report explores improving architect/contractor relationship
A new study by the American Institute of Architects and the Associated General Contractors of America focuses on improving the relationship between architects and contractors.
