Education and background
Mike was first elected to the Garfield County Board of County Commissioners in November 2008, and he was re-elected in November 2012. Born in Glenwood Springs, Mike is a native of Garfield County. He has lived in Rifle much of his life, attending public schools from kindergarten through his senior year in Garfield RE-2 School District. Mike graduated from Rifle High School. After graduating from Brigham Young University, Mike began his teaching career in August, 1979. Later he received his master\'s degree from Western State College (now Western State Colorado University).
During his 25 years of service as a teacher in the Garfield RE-2 School District, he coached volleyball, baseball and speech teams and was also the student council sponsor.
Mike served on the Rifle City Council during the boom and bust years, 1979-1983. He was also selected to serve as Mayor Pro Tem during those years. After 25 years of teaching, Mike served as dean of students for five years. Upon being elected as the Garfield County Commissioner for District 3, he retired after 30 years of service at Rifle High School.
Family
Mike has been married to Janet for over 30 years. They have raised 7 children: Kathryn, Herb, Marilyn, Mikey (deceased), Stephanie, Steven and Sandy.