John Lively was born in LaGrande and lived in Wallowa until he was a junior in high school. His family moved to Springfield where he graduated from Thurston High School, Lane Community College, and the University of Oregon. His college education was interrupted by the Vietnam War, during which he spent four years in the Army Security Agency. After his service, he completed his degree at the University of Oregon. Lively has a background in economic development and has worked for manufacturing companies and in contact center management. He previously served as the Mayor of Springfield and has held a seat in the State Legislature since 2013.
