Early Life: I was born in Rolla, Missouri and raised in the town of Liberty. After completing my high school education in 1979, I embarked on a journey into the world of aviation while simultaneously working part-time in the construction industry. It didn’t take long for me to realize that construction was my true calling. Over the years, I honed my skills and expertise, starting as a journeyman Bricklayer and gradually advancing to roles such as Superintendent, Estimator, and Project Manager.
In 1993, I took a significant leap and founded JACOR Contracting, a company that would become synonymous with quality and excellence in the world of commercial construction. With over 40 years of dedication to the industry, I decided to retire from JACOR in 2021, but my passion for construction and commitment to the community have never waned. Currently, I engage in part-time consulting within the construction trades, sharing my knowledge and experience with the next generation of builders.
Family Life: In 1983, I married my wife, Kim, and together, we embarked on a beautiful journey of life and love. Our family grew with the arrival of our two wonderful children, Heather and Brandon. We had the privilege of raising our children in the Kearney Community, where we became deeply rooted.
Service: My dedication to community service has always been a driving force in my life. Since 1982, I have watched Kearney go from a volunteer fire department to Fire & Rescue Protection District in 1990. In August 2010, I was honored to accept a board-appointed position, a role that allowed me to contribute even more to the community.
Throughout the years, I have actively served in various leadership capacities, including Vice President and President of the Missouri Association of Fire Protection Districts. Additionally, I have been a dedicated Board Member of the Cement Masons’ Pension Fund and the Lake Area Wastewater Association. My commitment to excellence in the construction industry also led me to serve as Vice President and President of the International Concrete Repair Institute (Great Plains). I have also been involved as a Committee Member for the American Concrete Repair Institute.
Brandon’s Story and My Passion for KFD: One of the most profound experiences in my life was witnessing my son, Brandon, battle with an eating disorder. Kearney Fire & Rescue Protection played a pivotal role in our family’s life during this challenging period. The dedicated professionals in the department provided invaluable support, and their efforts allowed us to cherish more precious moments with Brandon before he tragically lost his life in April 2011.
Brandon’s story and the compassionate care provided by the Kearney Fire & Rescue Protection fueled my passion for supporting this essential organization. I am committed to honoring his memory and giving back to the community that stood by our side during our darkest days.
In conclusion, my life has been a journey filled with dedication to construction, service to the community, and a profound appreciation for the Kearney Fire & Rescue Protection District. Through the ups and downs, I have been blessed with the love of my family, especially my wife Kim, my daughter and her husband, Heather & Ryan, and my two precious granddaughters, Ellis & Charlotte, and the memories of my beloved son, Brandon, continue to inspire my commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.