Jim was born in Spangler, Pa and moved to Altoona in 1960. Jim is currently employed at Ward Transport and Logistics for 31 years as the Telecommunications Manager.
Jim is a member of Logan Lodge #490 F. &A.M. in Altoona. He is a member of the Jaffa Drum and Bugle Corp. Jim was a member of the Jaffa Oriental Band where he held many offices. In 2012, Jim also served as President of the Mid Atlantic Shrine Oriental Band Association. He has been on the Appointed Divan for the past 6 years and was elected as an Imperial Representative in 2016 and 2017. He also is Controller for the Jaffa Shrine Circus Concessions.
Jim is married to the former Deborah Rutherford. They have one son, Christopher, who is also a member of Jaffa Shrine.