Raised on a farm near Weiser; graduate of The College of Idaho, B.A. in business administration; graduate, Combined Arms Services and Services Staff School and U.S. Army Command and General Staff College; co-own Syme Real Estate in Caldwell with wife Patti; raise sheep and hay on 40-acre farm near Wilder; U.S. Army and Army Reserve for 32 years, served two tours in Iraq, retiring as Colonel; chairman of board, Caldwell Chamber of Commerce (2016); past board member, Idaho Veterans Garden and Vets for Success; past president and treasurer, God & Country Festival; military awards: Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, and Joint Services Commendation Medal; spouse: Patti, 40 years; four children; four grandchildren.