Featured Business: Service Doctor Remodeling Design Studio
This feature is brought to you by Kara Gora of Salon Kasara and John Yelkich of State Farm.

For nearly 30 years, Service Doctor Remodeling & Design has been serving Northwest Indiana with a commitment to quality craftsmanship, trusted relationships, and personalized service. What began as part of a resurfacing and painting franchise called “Surface Doctor” eventually evolved into the independently owned and operated company known today as Service Doctor.
When the original franchisor's business dissolved, the team continued the legacy independently. Years later when a new company bought the franchise and demanded a name change, the Service Doctor team decided they didn't need them. Owners John Reittinger and Randy Ralls confidently chose to continue on their own—because by then, the community already knew and trusted the people behind the work.
The name “Service Doctor” reflects both the company’s roots and its mission: to be “at your service” for every project, big or small. That philosophy has guided the business since day one.
Angela Popovich, the company’s original designer and estimator, joined John and Randy from the very beginning and helped shape the family-oriented culture that still defines the business today. Service Doctor isn’t just a workplace—it’s a family. The team proudly says they don’t simply hire employees; they hire customers, friends, and even their customers’ children. Their goal is to build lasting relationships while helping families create spaces they truly love.
One of the most unique features of Service Doctor’s Merrillville showroom is the U-Cook Entertaining Cooking School. While designing the showroom, Angela envisioned something far more interactive than standard product displays. Inspired by a fun evening out with friends, she proposed building a professional kitchen directly inside the showroom. Today, the U-Cook Entertaining Cooking School has become a popular destination where people from across Northwest Indiana gather to cook, learn, socialize, and enjoy memorable experiences together.
Service Doctor has built its reputation on trust and a willingness to take on any challenge. In fact, their very first customer was a heart transplant recipient who simply needed a water softener installed. That experience set the tone for the company’s future: no project is too big or too small. Much of their business continues to come from repeat customers and referrals—a testament to the care and dedication they bring to every home and business they serve.
As the company continues to grow, Service Doctor is also looking to expand its team with individuals who value a supportive, family-focused work environment.
As a special offer for Chamber members and newsletter readers, Service Doctor is currently offering 10% off resurfacing and painting services, along with 18 months no-interest financing for qualified customers. This offer is good for work completed in 2026.
Location: 5150 E. Hwy 30, Merrillville, IN
Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, though their team is often there even earlier and later to serve customers
Phone: 219-942-0883
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