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Since graduation, I attended Univ of Northern Iowa and graduated in 1972 with a degree in biology & chemistry. Immediately after graduating, my draft board was looking for me. I had discussed military options with classmate Dick Parke, who was a recruiter at that time. However at year-end, my draft lottery number was not called, so I was free to move forward in my life. I started with John Deere in Waterloo, IA and enjoyed a 44 year career with this great company. I recently retired and am enjoying the heck out of it! My career took me all around the world and I enjoyed managerial positions in engineering, manufacturing and marketing & sales at facilities in Waterloo, Dubuque & the Quad Cities. I now reside in Moline, IL. During my career, I was able to complete my Master's Degree from Iowa State Univ. in engineering.
I divorced in 2002, and met my current wife Joan in the Quad Cities. We met, believe it or not, through 7-minute dating program. I went once and met the girl of my dreams, so I consider it 100% effective! We married in 2005. Joan has completed my life and been a fantastic wife, partner and best-friend. She has been an RN in surgery and now in a pain clinic, serving patients with her great compassion and skills for over 25 years. Joan plans to retire in about a year when son Andrew completes college. We are both healthy and plan to ride off into the sunset traveling and having as much fun as possible. I could not be a happier guy at this point in my life.
As I mentioned in children section, we have 6 children, 5 spouses and 3 grandchildren. Buying Christmas presents is a killer! Ha. Our family keeps us busy and is a true blessing. Joan's children all live in the Chicago area. I have a daughter in Milwaukee, a son in Dubuque and oldest daughter lives near us in Moline. It appears we will settle somewhere in the mid-west to be somewhat central to family. We'd like settle somewhere warmer, but that may not happen. However, we plan plan to travel to warm places often!
I can't believe it will be 50 years! I look forward to seeing you all.
