My family moved to Big Lake in 1974. I went through the Big Lake Schools and was active in football, basketball, track and many other organizations throughout my HS career. I joined the Big Lake Fire Department in 1994 and served with the department for 23 years. I joined the Big Lake Police Department in 2001 as a reserve officer and then as a Peace Officer in 2003 and have been here since. I credit my longevity in law enforcement to this great community and the people that I work with! My wife, of 27 years, and my two children are everything to me.
In my spare time, when I have it, I love coaching softball with my daughter’s team and enjoy anything outdoors. Anytime I can spend with my family is a bonus.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Man, I can’t pick a couple, I do love them all. It all depends on what I am hungry for and my family does patronize all of them!
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived in Big Lake for 48 years, minus two years that I went to college. I love this community, always have, always will.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
I have lived here for so many years and have met so many people. There have been so many influential people in my life that have helped make me the person that I am today, that I would not be able to pick just one.
Q: Do you have any pets? If so, what are they and what are their names?
I have a Cavalier King Charles spaniel named Bree. I also have two cats name KC and Kat.
Q: What advice would you give to people living in Big Lake?
Big Lake is a great community with great people! Don’t be afraid to get out and meet your neighbors and enjoy the many parks and trails that Big Lake has to offer
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I seriously do not have a bucket list. I try to live each day to the fullest and take each day as it comes.
Q: What is your favorite current or former business in our community?
For food, it would have to be Gwashy’s pizza and subs. For ice cream, it would be Wally’s Ice Cream Parlor!
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The small town feel with just being a short time away from downtown Minneapolis or St. Cloud.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Hopefully retired and enjoying some time off!
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Well, I am terrified of snakes! It is always interesting when I get a call from dispatch of a large snake somewhere, I might respond, but not getting anywhere near it!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My family, everyday.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of Big Lake?
Small town feel. Great schools. Probably the best swimming beach around
