Marion Democrat 15th Senatorial District Born Jan. 20, 1942, in Davenport, son of Harold A. and Elizabeth M. Sovern. Graduated Washington Senior High School, Cedar Rapids 1960. B.A., psychology, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Married Bonnie Smolinski, Chicago, 1966. Children: Grant, Eric, Kerith. President Nesper Sign Advertising. Past board member; Cedar Rapids Community School District, Linn County United Way, Cedar Valley Montessori School, Cedar Rapids Jaycees. Recipient Jaycee Distinguished Service Award, 1973. Catholic First term.