3rd Year, Theology 
University of St. Mary of the Lake
Mundelein Seminary
1000 E. Maple Ave.
Mundelein, IL 60060-1967

Home Parish Location:  St. Mary, Fairfield

Why did you become a seminarian?  After several years of working in the secular world, I wanted to say “yes” to God’s plan for my life. I look forward to the opportunity to continue my discernment.  

Before you entered seminary, what were you doing?  I spent eight years in the automotive industry and two years as an industrial technology teacher. I was a Confirmation catechist for six years and worked with my parish youth ministry program. 

An interesting fact about you:  When I was younger, I spent a summer in New Mexico leading backpacking trips and another summer in Alaska sea kayaking, backpacking, and mountaineering! 

3rd Year, Theology
Sacred Heart Seminary School of Theology
7335 S. Hwy 100
P.O. Box 429
Hales Corners, WI 53130-0429

Home Parish Location: Our Lady of Lourdes, Bettendorf

Why did you become a seminarian? God was pretty clear that He is calling me, and the Bishop didn’t reject the idea!

Before you entered seminary, what were you doing? I was the Director of the Diaconate for the diocese, part-time, and enjoying retirement from John Deere.

An interesting fact about you: Woodworking is one of my favorite hobbies, along with gardening and landscaping, golf, and classic cars. I have my grandfather’s 1967 Chevy El Camino! I also played alto saxophone in my college marching band at Kansas State.

2nd Year, Pre-Theology                                                                    
Vianney House
1235 Mt. Loretta Avenue
Dubuque, IA 52003

Home Parish Location:  St. Patrick, Iowa City

Why did you become a seminarian? I became a seminarian because I believe God has been calling me to it. Since I was a boy, I have been fascinated with the Priesthood and have felt a tug in my heart reaching all the way back to my early memories. I have studied in various fields and have worked in various fields as well, but a longing remained in my heart all the while. After years of prayerful discernment and with the guidance of a spiritual director, I decided it was time to follow this tug of the heart and explore what God has been calling me to.

Before you entered seminary, what were you doing? Prior to entering seminary, I was working in streets construction for the City of Iowa City and finishing up my Associates of Liberal Arts from Kirkwood Community College

An interesting fact about you: I am an avid outdoorsman due in no small part to my time in service as an infantry scout in the Army National Guard.