Rick moved from Brampton to Kirkland Lake in 1982 to start his career as a reporter at the Northern Daily News. Prior to moving north Rick graduated with a B.A from Trent University, a Diploma in Community Print Journalism from Sheridan College and completed the first year of Applied Photography at Sheridan College. As well he worked in retail sales, owned his own retail business, worked in manufacturing, worked in social services, and the hospitality industry. Rick is married to Charlene and they have three grown children and two grandchildren. Over the years Rick has volunteered with many organizations, some of which include minor baseball, Second Street Daycare, Kirkland Lake Minor Hockey Association, Kirkland Lake Power Blast Girls Midget Hockey Team,
Kirkland Lake Drug and Alcohol Awareness Coalition, Toburn Operating Authority and Trinity United Church. Rick, now retired, looks forward to serving Kirkland Lake in his role as Councillor.