I am a native of Pennsylvania and a first generation American, born of two Irish parents. I grew up in the Pittsburgh area and graduated from the University of Pittsburgh. After a brief stint in the military, I accepted a financial position with Shell Oil Company, first in Cleveland, Ohio, and then Chicago, Illinois. After living in Lakewood, Ohio, and Lisle, Illinois, my wife, Peg, three kids, and I transferred with Shell to Houston. Upon retirement from Shell, I worked as the financial guru for Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church in the medical center. In retirement, Peg and I live at the Eagles Trace Retirement Community in west Houston.

     My genealogical interests lie with my Ulster Irish roots (Counties Antrim, Armagh, and Donegal). I have traveled extensively in Ireland, both to visit family, and to do research, including the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland in Belfast and The National Records Office in Dublin. In spite of this, I still have much to learn.

     My primary wish for WHAGS is that our membership might flourish in order to advance the learning experience for all of us.