Governor Nominee-Designate's Bio

Michael was born at FE Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming while his father was in the service. Their family would spend several years in the service, including serving overseas on a airbase outside of Casablanca, Morocco, before moving to Wisconsin where Michael would spend much of his childhood growing-up between Eau Claire, La Crosse, and the Green Bay area. Eventually Michael and his family would move to Fort Wayne, Indiana, where Michael would finish high school and go on to receive a degree in Marketing at Indiana University.

 

Michael would also meet his future wife and best friend, Leisa, while in Indiana. They have been married since 1984 and have three children as well as a granddaughter who is in her senior year in high school. Michael and his family have long been active members of their communities and with the Boy Scouts of America. Michael himself has been involved with Scouting for over 40 years, including 12 years as a Scoutmaster and has had the honor of awarding 12 scouters with their Eagle Scout awards. In his time in Scouting he was also the recipient of the District Award of Merit, Silver Beaver Award, and Order of Arrow Vigil Honor. He also served as a Wood Badge Course Director and is currently in his eleventh year as VP of Program for the Chippewa Valley Council.

 

Beyond Scouting, Michael has also been an active member of the Knights of Columbus since 1999, and is currently a member of the 4th degree with the Altoona council. While working with the Knights he has served as council Grand Knight for 5 years, the state District Deputy for two terms, and one term as Diocesan Program Coordinator. Professionally, he has been in Sales and Management for over 40 years. Currently he works for Airgas in Eau Claire as an Account Manager for large industrial manufacturers.  He and his wife Leisa enjoy the outdoors, community events and causes, travel whenever possible and quiet time with their two dogs.  Michael was invited to join the Eau Claire Morning Rotary Club in 2014.  He quickly became passionate for community service to both local and international communities and greatly enjoys the sense of self-fulfillment that he receives from helping others. During his time, he has been Club President for two terms, is currently active as their Foundation Chair, and has been the Assistant Governor for Group 1 for the past four years.