Lakeside Lumber awarded by industry – Ashby business is BizCon’s Dealer of the Year

By Mike Mallow
Editor, Grant County Herald

Lakeside Lumber of Ashby was named the Bizcon Dealer of the Year at the 2026 BizCon North convention held in St. Cloud last week.

The business is owned by Mike and Heather Rossum.

Heather said they knew that they had been selected for the honor before attending the convention, but did not know they were in the running until they got the call.

“It’s a board that picks it, so it’s not on a ballot. We didn’t know we were even being considered,” Heather said.

BizCon is an annual convention put on by BLD Connection, the trade association representing material dealers and suppliers across the Midwest.

A family-owned business, Lakeside Lumber was founded by Rich Rossum in 1980. The business began with five employees in a small storefront on Birch Ave. in Ashby.

Rich’s son, Mike, joined the business in 2002. He and Heather have been the owners since 2013. There are now 14 members as the business expands. The latest addition to the facility was completed last spring, and another is planned for later this year.

“For more than four decades, Lakeside Lumber of Ashby has provided quality materials, personalized service, and reliable support to homeowners, builders and contractors throughout the region,” the material from the award ceremony stated.

As the business grows, so does its family connection. Mike and Heather’s son, Levi, is also working for the company.

“As a member, Lakeside Lumber of Ashby demonstrates that engagement within BLD Connection is crucial to success, regardless of size or resources,” the award literature said. “The Rossum family has built a trusted network of peers.”

The material noted that Heather also serves as secretary for the North Dakota Lumber Association.

‘“This recognition is a true reflection of your team’s hard work, growth, and commitment to your customers and community,’” Heather read from a comment made by BLD Connection responding to her announcement post on Facebook. ‘“We were proud to celebrate with you at BizCon. Well deserved!’ I think that pretty much sums it up,” Heather concluded.