I grew up on a dairy farm and developed a strong work ethic at an early age. I worked in a butcher shop, paid for my college education, and graduated from Rhode Island College with a BS in Nursing in 1975.  Upon graduation, passing the state boards and RN license in hand, I was off and running to new lands and work life experiences. 

California welcomed me with open arms and multiple job opportunities became immediately available. I loved California and the variety of lifestyles so much, I went on a bicycle trip along the West Coast to find a community to live.  The playful side of me wanted to choose San Diego, but the serious side won over.  I decided to live in the San Francisco Bay Area, where I worked in a variety of health care settings. My favorite employment was at San Quentin State Prison, where I worked for the last 16 years of my nursing career.  I was the Mental Health Nurse Educator and designated subject-matter expert in several areas.  San Quentin was unique, challenging, and rewarding. 

Upon retirement, my wife and I traveled domestically and internationally for one year. We decided to settle down in Dundee and purchased a small home in August 2020.  Married over 31 years with two beautiful children.  They were raised to be fearless and independent, and yet they both returned from overseas to be near us. In retirement, I have decided to teach and train nurses, which I love doing.  Nursing was good to me and hope to encourage other people to become nurses.  I am active, social, enjoy family activities and participate in yoga and meditation which keeps me grounded and centered.