Where were you born and raised?
I was born in Milwaukee, and lived there until I was 9. My family moved to Mequon in 1970 and have lived here since.
Where did you go to school?
I began school at Christ Memorial Lutheran School in Milwaukee, transferred to Range Line Elementary, Lake Shore and then Homestead.
My advanced education was somewhat eclectic as I gathered it while I served in the US Navy. I began in an Aerospace Engineering program at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Virginia Beach, VA and continued when I moved to Jacksonville Fl. Some of my favorite and influential education was at this school. Some of the courses were on an aircraft carrier out to sea, talk about having undivided attention!
I discontinued in that program when I moved to the west coast and attended San Francisco State University and Mesa Collage San Diego. I studied pre-med for 2 semesters, deciding then that I was too old and had too many responsibilities for that path, I switched architecture for several semesters. I began designing and constructing, starting my first Company in Coronado CA. I left school with a “Construction Managment” degree, but I appreciate the diverse education I gained on my path and I have continued to have a thirst for knowledge throughout my life.
What about your family?
My parents, Ken & Karen, still live in Highland Rd in Mequon where they moved to in 1975. I have 3 younger siblings, 2 brothers in the area and a sister who lived in Indiana.
I’m no longer married, but have 2 beautiful daughters, Taneal and Hannah, a son-in-law Eric and 2 adorable granddaughters, Mila & Ava.
What was your first job?
I worked a few odd jobs in HS, but my first significant job was an Aircrew Survival Equipmentmen or “Parachute Rigger” in the Navy which I did for 15 years. It was very rewarding that my work could and did save the lives of others, it took it very seriously and became the best I could be at it. That experience has been very influential on how I live my life today.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy the camaraderie and the responsibilities of being a firefighter, I enjoy biking, swimming and physical challenges. Motorcycling, live music and summer weather, but most of all I enjoy sailing. I spent as much time sailing and racing on Lake Michigan as I can.
Final parting thoughts…
I’ve been drawn to this thought ever since first hearing it: LOVE PEOPLE AND USE THINGS. THE OPPOSITE NEVER WORKS