From Bridges to Patio Furniture.
Cardinal Crane 1974 – “Mahomet IL Dairy Queen Bridge”
Cardinal has a rich history spanning nearly 50 years, starting in a very different industry. Our founder, Russ Law, faced personal challenges when his father, Newt Law (Head Illini Wrestling & Big10 Championship Coach), passed away at a young age. To support his family, Russ worked for Wetzel Construction in Champaign IL, right after high school. Russ founded “Cardinal Crane in 1974”, eventually constructing many of the Interstate bridges still in use throughout Champaign County.
Cardinal Pool 1980 – “Mahomet IL Store”
After building bridges, we changed our name to “Cardinal Pool”. We had both the knowhow & hard work ethic to design and build Award-Winning Swimming Pools that have brought joy to countless families in the Champaign Area. We not only created wonderful new pool customers, but also made lifelong friends. Our journey has been filled with memories—like our kids growing up in this business, and discovering their own passion for dreaming about the future and working hard. All our experiences…from our humble beginnings in Mahomet, to operating at the Old Farm Shops in Champaign, and then while working for decades at our old South Country Fair Drive location…we’re grateful for every last one of them!
Cardinal Patio Furniture 2025 – “Champaign IL Store”
Now in 2025, we’ve evolved once again—Rebranding as Cardinal Patio Furniture. Our New Showroom in Champaign at 1100 West Bloomington Road is proudly owned and operated by Russ’s daughter Sharon Law Pauza, her husband Mike, and their family. As a Family Business, we are committed to offering high-quality Outdoor Furniture and exceptional customer service. Cardinal Patio Furniture’s story has an exciting new chapter! Last year we purchased and moved to a spacious new location with 25,000 square feet in a much more visible area. This new space allows us to offer even more of the quality, comfort, and style you’ve come to expect. We are excited to continue to Focus on Building Lasting Relationships With All Our Customers, and helping to Transform Your Backyards and Commercial Spaces into Inviting, Personalized Retreats.