Tell us about your life’s work.

My life’s work was inspired by people I knew in the navy like Chief Petty Officer O’Connor from Oklahoma. We called him Okie from Okie. He was a survivor of the Bataan Death March. My other hero was my first radio man who was awarded the Medal of Honor in WWII. I met both of these gentlemen during my time in the navy during the Korean war. They taught me how ordinary people rise to the occasion when called upon. They along with my two brothers—both WWII vets—inspired me when I became a civilian to further my education, to get a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering which culminated in me becoming a department superintendent at a US Steel plant.

How does your sense of pride inform what you do?

I try to do my best in everything I do, knowing it reflects on who I am.

What do you want your legacy to be?

A good compassionate person, husband, father, friend, and neighbor.

What’s your take on classic style?

My wife and children keep me informed on what’s in and what’s out. Especially my wife of 65 years, who oversees my dressing daily. I sometimes disagree, but usually her way is in sync with the present fads.