Chicagoland Canoe Base

Business for sale. Owner retiring.

Who We are

Ralph Frese (Mr. Canoe)

The founder and the spirit of Chicagoland Canoe Base. He started this wonderful adventure, he built the business, the buildings and his touch can be seen in everything here. He is Chicagoland Canoe Base.

For a panoramic view of Ralph in his workshop click here. This was created by Robert Lightfoot and you can see more examples of his ingenuity at his website clicking here.

Also to see the WTTW11 story about Ralph click here.

Jon Maleta

The Senior Sales Manager, youngest staff member, the guy who cleans around, unloads the boats, talks with the customers, manufacturers, and vendors - and the guy who makes changes in the website and who made this page.

Here at the Chicagoland Canoe Base we get involved in many canoeing, kayaking, watertrail and environmental activities. Click on the links below and let us know what interests you!

May 20st - The golden anniversary of Des Plaines Canoe Marathon. 50 years since Ralph Frese started this wonderful event.Click here for more information about the history of this race, and here to visit the race website.


	History
	Testimonials
	Contact and business hours
	The Canadienne by Ralph Frese
	Birch Bark Replicas
	Ralph's Blacksmithing Work
	Conservation
	Instruction
	Photo Album
	Repairs and Restoration
	Rentals
	Resources
	What's New