I retired as a Sergeant First Class after serving 21 ½ years as a Combat Field Artilleryman in the US Army. I served in the Army from 1973-1995; served 2 tours in Hanau, Germany; 2 tours in Korea on the DMZ; a tour in Honduras and participated in special missions in Somalia. While serving in the Gulf War, I received numerous citations, including a Bronze Star. The aspect I enjoyed the most about my military service is having my family with me while I was stationed in Germany; we loved the culture and adventure it presented.
After my time in the Army, I worked numerous jobs including: Radio Shack- Electronic Salesman, Sears- Appliance Salesman, Vision Quest- Juvenile Detention Center for troubled youth, Circle K salesman, established a Lawn Service for seven years, Rex TV and appliance salesman, Software instructor for Government Contractor, and a Government Contractor for a Military Weapon System. I had the pleasure of retiring in 2012 with my greatest satisfaction is that I always tried to do a good job, even if I didn’t like what I was doing.
I have been married to my beautiful wife Gwen for 50 years; we have four children: three boys, one girl, and four grandchildren. Now that the nest is empty, my wife and I love to travel and going on Cruises and travel to Las Vegas for New Years. My sons have done very well in life; I have a Professor and an Engineer.
I encountered kidney disease in November 2020, had double pneumonia in both lungs, severe respiratory problems, and severe Covid-19. I was hospitalized for 21 days and almost died twice. My kidney function has declined, and I have been reliant on peritoneal dialysis (PD), which is done at home, since November 2022.
I am older now and my kidney disease has caused me some physical problems, especially with my strength. Currently I am going to physical therapy, and it helps tremendously. I get around well based on my condition.
I am a Deacon in the Church, Sunday School Teacher, and on the finance committee. I love and enjoy teaching men’s Bible Study on Monday and Thursday nights. I am a graduate of the Hopkinsville College of the Bible with a BS degree in Biblical Studies & minor in Christian Education and Theology. I love fishing, being a Ham Operator, and especially love being with my grandchildren.
For medically cleared donors, giving the gift of life through living kidney donation has been proven to be very safe. DOVE will assist all prospective donors throughout the process and make sure they do not incur any out-of-pocket expenses related to the evaluation or surgery. A healthy person can live a normal life with one kidney and save Marcus’ life with the other!
Your support, whether through spreading the word on social media or considering becoming a donor, can make a profound impact on his life and the life of his family!
Please click on the link below if you would like to learn more OR call (551) 233-1611