Team

Mark grew up in north central Iowa and graduated from the University of Northern Iowa, receiving his B.A. in social and behavioral sciences. For many years, Mark worked in the biotech industry, but was always an entrepreneur at heart. He began investing in real estate in 1997 and quickly evolved into a real estate developer. Adding to his entrepreneurial portfolio, he also co-owns a beer company called Buck Creek Brewing, in which he developed his own signature beer, ‘Patti’s Ale.’ Beyond all of this, his heart has always truly been in agriculture.

The development of Buck Creek Hops was a natural choice. With his experience as a row-crop farmer, he knew the rich soil of Iowa would surely grow high quality hops plants. Mark and his wife, Lynette, have two children. Their close-knit family enjoys doing anything they can do together from working at the farm to family vacations, and the kids’ school activities.
It’s no wonder anyone working with Buck Creek Hops feels like family!

Christian grew up in small town Iowa, where he spent a lot of time on his grandparents’ farm. He swears he came into this world with a pint of IPA in his hand! It was early on that he developed an interest in the science of plants and their development. He attended Iowa State University where he obtained his bachelor’s degree in horticulture.

During his time at ISU he grew fond of all things hops… and let’s face it, beer! His interest took hold not only in the plants themselves, but yard design, plant development, and processing. As the on-site horticulturalist at Buck Creek Hops, Christian has quickly become a vital member or the team, as he possesses the extra boost of knowledge needed to increase production and create healthy, larger, more lupulin-dense hops. Christian has several hobbies including home-brewing, snowboarding, and reading. He loves using his knowledge of horticulture to grow the best hop product the midwest has to offer.

Michelle grew up in Eastern Iowa. She received a degree in Communications and International Business from the University of Iowa. She joined the Buck Creek team in 2021 after spending 12 years as the director of client services in an entrepreneurial company. Michelle and her husband, Brett, have one son and enjoy spending time outdoors and traveling.

Mercedez grew up in a small town in Illinois, right along the mighty Mississippi River. She attended Capri College where she received her license for Massage Therapy. Mercedez joined the Buck Creek team in March of 2022 after spending the last 6 years working as a director for a health and wellness Retreat, where she developed her passion for internal operations, business development and marketing. Outside of work, Mercedez enjoys spending time with her family, reading a good book and traveling south to enjoy the warm sandy ocean.

Brent grew up on the river in Northeast Iowa. He received a bachelors degree in psychology from Coe College, followed by receiving his masters and Ed.S degrees from UNI. Brent joined Buck Creek in 2022 after spending 11 years working as a psychologist for an educational agency.

Brent and his wife Jillian built their home and moved to Solon in 2016. They have a young daughter and son. When he isn’t working or spending time with his family, You will most likely find him at Kinnick Stadium, Wrigley Field, or the golf course.

Nick grew up in the western suburbs of Chicago. He received his bachelor’s degree in marketing from Dominican University in River Forest, IL. From there Nick attended the Siebel Institute of Technology where he completed the WBA Concise Course in Brewing Technology.

Following his graduation from the Siebel Institute, Nick started his professional career in beer production. Over the course of 13 years Nick has worked in all levels of beer production from cleaning kegs to head brewer and overseeing total production in small start-ups and regional craft breweries alike.

Nick and his wife Linsey live in Wheaton, ILL. with their two young daughters. When he has the time, you can find Nick on the golf course. Other hobbies include grilling and all things Chicago sports.

Brian grew up on his family’s farm in eastern central Iowa. He graduated from Saint Ambrose University with degrees in business and economics. After retiring from 35 years of medical device sales in 2020 he decided to join the Buck Creek sales and logistics team.

He enjoys the camaraderie of the Buck Creek family and the opportunity to help grow it’s business. Brian, his wife Joan and their dog Penney currently reside in Iowa city. In his free time he enjoys hunting, golfing and playing racquetball.

Aaron was born and raised in Keota, Iowa. He graduated from Mt. Mercy with a BS in Business. After leaving his career as a Pharmaceutical-Specialty Representative he joined the Buck Creek team as our Iowa Delivery Driver. Aaron enjoys archery, deer hunting, fishing, biking and tending to his farms.