Farmer and banker. Born in Milwaukee, WI and raised in Maquoketa. Resides in Preston. Graduated from Maquoketa High School. Received B.A. from Cornell College in Mount Vernon. Graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin. Serves on Regional Workforce Investment Board, Jackson County Enterprise Zone Board, and Maquoketa Contact Team. Serves as chairman of Jackson County Revolving Loan Board, bank director of Maquoketa State Bank, and past president of Maquoketa Rotary. Member of United Methodist Church. Wife Jennie; three children and seven grandchildren. Serving first term in Senate.