PRESIDENT

Born and raised in New Jersey, Mike attended Rutgers University, where he was able to pursue a field of study that nurtured his love for nature and design. He graduated with a B.S. in Landscape Architecture in 1991 and began Live Oak Landscape Contractors shortly afterward, in 1993. In its 30 years of operation, Live Oak has diversified from a design/build firm, adding property care, irrigation and snow removal services to its remit.

Mike’s understanding of a client's desires and expectations, coupled with his 30 years of experience, drives Live Oak’s “client first philosophy” which permeates through all aspects of the business. This approach has allowed Mike to work on projects ranging in size from private gardens to million-dollar landscape and cultivate a client roster that dates back to the founding years. As a result of Mike’s considerable experience and commitment to quality work, Live Oak has grown to over 60 employees, many of which have over 15 years of tenure with the company.

Mike has been married to his beautiful wife for 30 years and is the father to 3 wonderful children. He’s also active in his community, committed to causes such as the Valerie Fund, the Lupus Foundation and the ALS Association of America.

VICE PRESIDENT, PROPERTY CARE

Curt joined Live Oak Landscape in 2012 and brings over 30 years’ experience in the green industry. Curt is involved in all aspects of daily operations and account management as well as all aspects of maintenance, irrigation, fertilization, enhancements as well as his roles in internal office duties.

When not a work Curt spends time with his family.

GENERAL MANAGER

Deriek started his landscaping career at a very young age of 10 and while using his dad’s push mower to mow neighbors’ lawns a love of the green industry was born. After attending Rutgers University and obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Business Economics, he pursued a career in the landscape maintenance and design industry and continued his education with additional horticultural education from Rutgers. Deriek has served in many positions allowing him to be multifaceted when it comes to service delivery and expectation.

Deriek has been married 10 years, has 3 kids and loves everything outdoors. He is an active coach as well as active in community organizations.

OFFICE MANAGER | CHAOS COORDINATOR

Rhonda has been with Live Oak since 2011. As Office Manager, Rhonda uses her 20+ years experience in customer service with her accounting education to provide an exceptional experience to her clients.

Outside of work, Rhonda enjoys an active lifestyle – going to the gym, walking her dog Baci, and riding motorcycles with her husband.

SENIOR PRODUCTION MANAGER

Fernando has been with Live Oak since 2007. His knowledge of all aspects of field operations allows him to be efficient and quality first. Fernando is married with 4 kids and loves being with them whenever he can.

SENIOR PRODUCTION MANAGER

Lupe has been with Live Oak since its inception. Lupe has held almost every thinkable position with Mike and team and without him at times this may not be possible. A jack of all trades, he gets it done when it matters most.

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Marcelo started his landscaping career at the age of 12, working at his father’s landscaping business to help raise money to support his college career. After he attended Pennsylvania State University and obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Contracting Design/Build, he was given an opportunity to manage Drew University as a grounds manager for Landscape Maintenance and Snow management.

When not at work he supports his father landscape business in communicating with clients.

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

With over 30 years of experience in the landscape industry, Joe Palagonia brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Live Oak Landscape. Starting as a laborer on a mow crew, Joe quickly advanced through various roles, including supervisor, production manager, and account manager, working with the renowned Brickman Group in the late '90s. A New York native who grew up in central New Jersey, Joe is a proud graduate of Neptune High School.

When he's not at work, Joe enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons, engaging in boating, beach outings, and boardwalk activities. He’s also an avid music lover who enjoys attending concerts. Joe's dedication to both his profession and his family makes him a valuable asset to our team.

PRODUCTION / ACCOUNT MANAGER

Joe Fryzel has a lifelong connection to the landscape industry, having started his journey under the guidance of his father, learning the ropes of mowing and weed whacking on their family farm. From a young age, Joe progressed to more complex tasks, such as excavating with a backhoe, and eventually went on to own and operate a successful landscape and excavation firm for 18 years, serving clients in both New Jersey and Florida. Joe’s extensive experience in production management, construction design-build, and client relations makes him an invaluable member of our team.

Outside of work, Joe enjoys playing golf and spending time outdoors.