Kendler came to America from Guatemala with nothing but a dream and the determination to build something of his own. His journey began in California, where he worked tirelessly cleaning restaurants, living in a small apartment with only his car to his name. It was there that friends told him about Utah—a place of opportunity, where he could carve out a future. In 2003, he moved to Utah and started painting, eager to learn a trade that could one day become his own business. But when he finally took the leap and started K&M Painting in 2014, many doubted him—not because of his skills, but because of his background. People didn’t believe a Guatemalan immigrant could build a successful painting company.

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But Kendler didn’t let doubt define him. He poured his heart into every project, proving his worth one brushstroke at a time. As word spread about his exceptional craftsmanship, his business grew from small homes to custom estates, and eventually to working with some of Utah’s biggest names. Through it all, one person believed in him more than anyone—his wife, Marian Batres. She was his best friend, his support, and his number one fan. She believed in him before anyone else did. One Christmas, Marian gave him two powerful gift — her encouragement and her savings. She knew he wanted to grow his company. It was a sacrifice, but she never hesitated. She had been saving money from her job, and this is exactly what she wanted to do with it. She knew Kendler would make it work. He dreamed of providing a living that would allow her to stop working all together. He promised her that one day, he would build her a home. 

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That promise became his driving force and he has followed through. Year after year, his New Year's resolution was the same—grow the business, build a future, and give his wife the life she deserved. Now, Marian has been home with their children for over 12 years, just as Kendler always dreamed. They built a home in Utah, built another in Guatemala, and K&M Painting has become a trusted name across the state. More than just a business, this company is a testament to perseverance, love, and the power of believing in something bigger than yourself. Kendler tells his children that he doesn’t care who they marry, as long as they have dreams—because dreams are what built everything they now have. And today, he’s living proof that with faith, hard work, and the right people by your side, dreams do come true. 

 

The K&M (Kendler & Marian) team now helps dreams come true for homeowners all over Utah—and they can't wait to be a part of yours.