Siding Winnipeg
About
Siding Winnipeg
Nearly a Century of Construction Heritage
Siding Winnipeg | The story of Abel Western begins long before the company itself was founded. Its roots trace back to 1928, when a family business first established itself in Winnipeg’s construction industry during a period of rapid growth and industrial development across Canada.
In 1905, Moses “Mo” Sodomsky arrived in Canada from Ukraine during a wave of Eastern European immigration. Like many newcomers of that time, he came seeking opportunity and was willing to work hard to create it. He eventually found his place in the construction industry, specializing in insulation systems for large buildings and industrial facilities.
By the late 1910s, Mo had become the Canadian Superintendent of Construction for Johns Manville, gaining deep expertise in industrial insulation and large scale construction projects. In 1928, he took a leap of faith and founded his own company in Winnipeg, supplying and installing insulation for major buildings, hospitals, schools, and infrastructure projects across Manitoba.
The company survived the hardships of the Great Depression and grew rapidly during World War II, contributing to the construction of military bases, industrial facilities, and government buildings throughout the region.
Over time, the business expanded and a residential division was created called Able Home Improvements, specializing in roofing, siding, and insulation. A printer’s spelling mistake would eventually change the name from “Able” to “Abel,” a small accident that would later become part of the company’s identity.
In 1984, Mo’s grandson Bill Sodomsky saw an opportunity to build something new. At 30 years old, with years of hands-on construction experience behind him, he took over the small residential division and launched Abel Western. Combining the Abel name with the historic Western brand, Bill intentionally created a company that could stand on its own reputation rather than a personal name.
Bill would go on to play a key role in shaping modern exterior construction practices in Winnipeg. He was one of the first contractors in the city to introduce pre-finished metal cladding systems for residential rooflines, including aluminum soffit, fascia, and trim systems. At the time, these materials were not commonly used in residential construction. Today, these metal cladding systems have become the standard approach used on homes throughout Winnipeg, valued for their durability, low maintenance, and clean finished appearance.
What started as a small residential operation grew into a respected exterior construction company serving some of the largest home builders across Manitoba.
In 1996, Bill sold Abel Western to Randy Calsbeck, who continued building the company’s reputation for quality workmanship and reliable service.
A new chapter began again in 2022, when the company changed ownership and relocated its office to Ste. Agathe, Manitoba, positioning Abel Western for continued growth while staying true to the values that shaped it from the beginning.
Today, Abel Western carries forward nearly 100 years of construction heritage. From industrial insulation systems in the early 1900s to modern exterior building solutions, the company’s legacy has always been built on the same foundation:
- Hard work.
- Craftsmanship.
- Entrepreneurship.
- And a commitment to building things the right way.
It is a story that began almost a century ago and continues to evolve with every project.
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Meet the Team
Ryan Hobday
Co-Owner
Samantha (Sam) Friesen
Office Manager
Sam has been with Del's Exteriors for 13 years and joined Abel Western in 2024. As Office Manager, she keeps both companies running behind the scenes handling everything from accounts payable and receivable to the day to day operations that keep projects moving forward. If something needs to get done, chances are Sam’s involved. What she enjoys most about the job is the people. A strong team, a little problem solving, and plenty of sarcasm make even the busiest days enjoyable. Outside of work, Sam spends most of her time working on yard projects and maintaining her 6 acres. Relaxing usually turns into finding another project to tackle, but that’s just how she likes it.
Roland Desiderio
Production Manager
Sebastien (Seb) Gosselin-Boulet
Service Manager
Robert (Robbie) Gerbrand
Service Tech
Alexandria (Allie) Wiebe
Production Coordinator
Alexandria “Allie” joined the Abel Western team in August 2024 as the Production & Delivery Coordinator. In an industry that’s constantly moving and changing, she enjoys the fast pace and unpredictability that comes with the role. Whether she’s coordinating deliveries, helping keep projects moving, or driving the Abel truck and trailer around the city, Allie brings a positive attitude and energy to the team every day. What stands out most to her is the people she works alongside. From day one, she’s felt supported by coworkers who are always willing to answer questions, share their knowledge, and help her continue learning and growing in the industry. Outside of work, Allie spends as much time outdoors as possible. Whether it’s camping, cabin weekends, swimming in the summer, or side by side rides year round, she’s always up for an adventure and making the most of Manitoba’s outdoors.