Eagle Scout, November 1969; Badger Boys State, 1972; Graduate and valedictorian, Boyceville High School, 1973; attended University of Wisconsin-Stout; earned B.A. with highest honors University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, 1978.

Worked 15 years in community relations for United Cerebral Palsy of West Central Wisconsin; cofounder of musical entertainment group "The Memories" (started 1972).

Member- Eau Claire, Menomonie, Ellsworth, and Prescott Chambers of Commerce; National Rifle Association; Eau Galle-Rush River, Ellsworth, Durand, Rock Falls, and Arkansaw Sportsmen's Clubs; Wisconsin Farm Bureau; Cleghorn Lions Club; Chippewa Valley Council of Boy Scouts of America (board of directors).

Recipient- Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars Legislator of the Year 2013; Wisconsin AMVETS Veteran's Advocate of the Year 2014; Wisconsin Electrical Cooperative Association Most Enlightened Legislator 2016; Wisconsin School Nutrition Association Legislator of the Year 2018, 2016; Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce Working for Wisconsin Award (every term); Dairy Business Association Legislative Excellence Award (every term);Wisconsin Economic Development Association Champion of Economic Development Award 2018; Wisconsin Town's Association Friend of Towns Award 2020, 2018; Wisconsin Counties Association Outstanding Legislator Award 2020; Wisconsin Association for Talented and Gifted Outstanding Legislator Award 2020 Elected to Assembly since 2010.