Born on August 27th, 1916 in Smith County, Kansas, DR, as a very small boy, traveled with his family to see his first circus, which happened to be the John Robinson Circus playing in McCook, Nebraska.

Bitten by the magic of that first circus, DR's father started his own show with just a dog and a pony in the early 20's.This love of circus and traveling became DR's way of life as he criss-crossed the United States many times in his 83 years. A life-partnership was formed with Isla Marie Beach Miller, when he was 17 and she was 15. Together they made an impact on the circus business that will be felt for several generations. Both were inducted into Sarasota's Ring of Fame in January, 1995.

As a result of their interest and involvement in the preservation of the Asian elephant species, the Endangered Ark Foundation was established in 1993. "Jennie", C & B's first successful live birth, named for D.R.'s mother, was born on Sept. 6, 1998.

D. R. and Isla also were instrumental in establishing "Showman's Rest" (a part of the Mt. Olivet Cemetary in Hugo, Oklahoma). Both are interred there. D.R.'s funeral was a show in itself. He planned all the details and wanted publicity for his beloved circus. 3 television stations, five newspapers and the Associated Press all sent reporters.

Here is a link to see pictures of the funeral