The author's spent most of his childhood living in poverty. His alcoholic mother was divorced and remarried four times, often to other alcoholics. After moving more than twenty times and attending thirteen schools he escaped his tumultuous childhood when he married at the age of nineteen. Life held more and bigger challenges for him. Children came rapidly. At the age of 25 and with only a high school education and no special training, he was supporting five children on a modest salary as a home delivery salesman for the Jewel Tea Company. Determined not to live the irresponsible life he had been shown by his so-called parents he dedicated himself to learn and improve in every way possible. This story takes place in Detroit, Oklahoma and Northern Michigan. It takes the reader through the severe emotional and economic ups and downs of a very long life. It describes how a man accompanied by the unwavering support of a loving wife can, with determination and sacrifice, rise from extreme poverty to attain a net worth of seven figures. This auto biography may appeal to those interested in life during the 40s and 50's. Some may find interest in a marriage lasting in excess of sixty-five years producing six children, fourteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Finally, I hope it will provide inspiration to others, that it is possible to attain one's dreams if they are sufficiently motivated.