ABOUT RICH

Bio

I entered the world in the picturesque little town of Deer Lodge, Montana. As a kid my family lived in Montana (twice), Chicago (three times), Milwaukee, and Philadelphia before finally settling in Iowa, where I graduated from high school and college and began my teaching career. I moved to Fort Collins, Colorado in 1981.

In December, 1987, I fell from the roof of my house while installing Christmas lights. This freak accident resulted in a spinal cord injury and paralysis below my chest. After a long struggle, I have learned to survive and thrive in a wheelchair.

Education

B.S. in Mathematics, M.S. in Counseling (Iowa State University) GO CYCLONES!

Professional Career

I've been a public school mathematics teacher for thirty five years, along with a three-year stint as a high school counselor. I've also done construction work and operated my own general contracting company for five years.

Family

Becky and I have been married since 2002. We live in Fort Collins with Monte, a wonderful Labrador Retriever who's also a specially-trained service dog and my constant companion. (Here's a family picture.)

Hobbies

I love to ride my hand cycle. I crank more than two thousand miles each year. Monte and I frequent the extensive bike trail system in Fort Collins (check out the photo). I'm also a devoted fan of the Rockies and Yankees, spend too much time (according to Becky) with my computer, and I find great pleasure in writing.

Church

Becky, Monte, and I have found an incredibly fulfilling church home at Timberline Church in Fort Collins, Colorado.