Our History

Steven J. Balek was born on Chicago’s South Side on July 13th, 1927. The eldest of 7 children born to Czech immigrants, hard-work was instilled in him from a young age. As a 17 year old in the Winter of 1944, he chose to graduate high school early so that he could enlist in the U.S. Navy and serve his country during World War Two. A few months later he found himself on an aircraft carrier, The U.S.S. Hornet, in the Pacific.

After the war ended Steve finished his duty to his country before returning home and beginning the search for a career. The University of Illinois offered classes to students on Navy Pier and it was here that Steve was first introduced to surveying. He excelled in mathematics and was drawn to the work being done outdoors. He would soon find a job working for Cook County’s Highway Department where he eventually became the lead surveyor on many projects including the layout of the Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Stevenson Expressways.

With an unquenchable thirst for work, he decided to team up with an engineer friend from the Cook County Highway Department, Arthur Kaindl, to create KaBal Surveying Company in the summer of 1962.

What began as a side job has now become a pillar in the lives of our family. Steve worked nights and weekends to provide for his family and to make use of his surveying expertise . His willingness to provide such great service and dedication to his clients allowed KaBal to grow and forge lasting relationships with thousands around the Chicago area. Almost every Balek has worked for KaBal in some capacity. The tradition of working hard and taking pride in our work has been passed down to each and every one of us. The vision and values Steve passed down remain to be the driving force behind KaBal.

In Winter of 2019, at the age of 92, Steve finally decided to retire for good. KaBal remains in family hands with Steve’s impact serving as the foundation of our company.

Although much has changed since 1962, the quality and passion for our work has not. Allow us to show you why KaBal Surveying Company should be your number one choice for all of your surveying needs.