Artist

I was born and raised in South Dakota, attended Black Hills State College and obtained a BS degree. I moved to Wyoming which I now call home. I am married, have three children, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. I taught school in Wyoming for a number of years, managed the University of Wyoming’s Trail Lake Ranch Conference Center for several summers and retired from the University of Wyoming after 27 years. I havean MS degree in Natural Science and a doctorate in Adult Education.

Somewhere along the line I learned that a person can do anything he desires with motivation and figuring out stuff. I enjoy the outdoors, hunting, fishing and camping. I have built a 3600 sq ft house, raised hay, broke and shod horses and built six saddles. I have dabbled in various crafts throughout my life.

Shortly before I retired I met a lady in the Cowboy Bar in Jackson, WY and in visiting with her, I noticed some jewelry she was wearing. She indicated that she made it and it might be something I would like to do in retirement. She suggested that I attend a metalworker’s fair in San Francisco which I did. She suggested some basic tools and materials for the craft which I purchased along with many books. I am primarily a self taught jewelry maker who picked up lapidary arts skills along the way. I have been asked to donate pins for the annual Yuma Symposium and in the fall and winter teach silversmithing and lapidary arts for the Yuma, AZ Parks and Recreation Dept.