Surrounded by a workshop full of reclaimed wood, John Basco makes what he calls his Custom Woodwork Creations. Over the past few years, he’s been leaving his mark all around Stoughton with his new business, EyeWoodWork. He’s created custom signs for area businesses, such as Dane Dental, Kismetic Studios, Autumn Pearl, and many more.

John retired seven years ago after a 40-year career as an Engineer with Argonne National Laboratory in Illinois. After serving in the Marines, he applied for a security guard position there. They decided he was better suited as a technician, and with that, he was on his way to a successful career.

John and his wife, Kathryn, relocated to Stoughton seven years ago after John’s retirement. While he may be retired, he spends his days doing a decent amount of work. Much of the work includes making a positive impact on Stoughton. John is the Community Service Officer for the Stoughton Police Department. In this role, he assists with dispatch, records, traffic control, animal complaints, and parking enforcement. In addition to EyeWoodWorks and his role with the Police Department, he’s sharing his knowledge as a volunteer at Innovation Center Stoughton.

The Stoughton Chamber of Commerce hired John to create new custom awards for two Syttende Mai Events, the Canoe Race and Viking Games. John’s custom pieces will replace the plaques from previous years for the Canoe Race—but don’t worry, the rosemaled paddles are still the top prize for each division. John created new awards for the Viking Games. All of these new awards are laser-engraved and hand-painted.

While John may not have grown up in Stoughton, he’s made Stoughton his hometown through his numerous contributions to many in town. You can see John’s work all around town, and now you’ll see it at Syttende Mai, too. Thank you, John!