Where did you grow up?
I was born in St. Louis, Missouri. Soon after, I moved to Montreal, Canada, and again to Geneva, Switzerland, where I started elementary school. I moved to the Twin Cities for middle school and have been here ever since!
Where did you attend college? What is your degree in?
I attended college at the University of Minnesota, School of Architecture. I have a Bachelor of Architecture.
How long have you been working at Dunwoody?
Nine years!
What do you enjoy most about Dunwoody Architecture?
I have terrific colleagues and students. Dunwoody gives them what they need to be successful, and I like being a part of that.
What does it mean to you knowing the first class of Architecture students is about to graduate?
It tells me that the graduates had faith in us. I’m honored by that.
What are a few of your hobbies?
I love old cars. I have a ‘50 Chev, a ‘75 Citroen 2CV Camionette (the kind that looks like it was made in a shop class), a decaying ‘62 Fiat, and a ‘58 Isetta (one door in the front) in pieces in my family room.
What is your favorite Twin Cities restaurant or coffee shop?
Midori’s Floating World—I love Japanese food. For 20 years before that though, it was Mr. Q’s in Eden Prairie. Before the owner, Quyet, moved to Florida, he introduced me to Vietnamese food—another one of my favorite cuisines.
Where is the best place you have ever traveled to? Why?
Living in Geneva in the ’50s was a wonderful experience. It was so different than the U.S. or Canada. It broadened my thinking.
What are you most proud of?
My wife and I have three children, who are truly fine people and walk the talk of caring for others. They make terrific parents to my three grandchildren.
Please provide some fun facts about yourself.
I married an interesting woman, my wife Mary. Through her interest we have a photo darkroom, an art studio, 100+ geraniums, three dogs, a cat, 16 chickens, a blind rooster, a duck that wears a diaper around the house, and a maple syrup boiler in the front yard. Also at last count, something like 15 boats (she fixes old boats). Most are at our lake place in Northern Minnesota. In the summer, I office out of a 1966 Airstream we keep up there. Our main house is in Dahlgren Township west of Carver on 14 acres. I designed the house in 1981 before I had any idea what I was doing.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I’m happy to be here.