Ron lives in Pella with his wife Phyllis. They have two sons and five grandchildren. The oldest grandchild is 20 years old and lives in Ames, while the youngest are twins, age 6 (a boy and a girl). In his spare time, Ron operates a 105-acre farm seven miles north of Pella.

Ron has been in agronomy sales since 1982. He is a Certified Crop Advisor and has been for 15 years. He has learned much in those years from his experience in working with area farmers. Most of what he shares as an agronomist is based upon what he has learned from other farmers. Ron says, “Books and research are needed, but experience is the best teacher. Listening to others and having a background as a school teacher, coach and pig farmer have all contributed to my training and hence, my recommendations.”