Candidate for
Member of the State Assembly; District 70

I am the son and grandson of immigrants. I grew up in St. Loius Missouri where I lived for my first 21 years. I earned my degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Missouri in 1957 and spent the next 45 years working in that field for Phillips Petroleum, Shell Chemical, and the Fluor Corporation. I lived eight years in Japan, Abu Dhabi, Canada, South Africa, and the Netherlands. My overseas experience has broadened my horizons and inspired my participation in the local chapter of the United Nations Association an organization that supports the UN. My wife is the current chapter president.

I proudly served my country as a member of the United States Army Reserves from 1958 to 1969, earning the rank of captain.

My interest in history and politics led to my involvement in the Democratic Party. In addition to my active role in the local Democratic Club, I am also a member of the Orange County Democratic Central Committee, and a delegate to the California State Central Committee.

I was a Jaycee (now the Junior Chamber of Congress) for nine years in three states and served as a local chapter president. I believe it is important to contribute to the advancement of my community. In every place I have lived, I have taken time to support civic activities.

My wife Lavon and I have been maried for 45 years and have lived in Irvine for 24 years. We have three grown children and two grandchildren. Our son John is a employeed by the US Department of State and was most recently a Consular Officer on the Island of Malta. Our daughter Lorraine operates a coffee stop in Ojai California and our younger son Darrell is a lawyer presently working in the insurance industry.