Marshall C. Darnell was born in Harrodsburg, Kentucky. He receieved his bachelor's degree in social science and English from Eastern Kentucky State College. He moved to Las Vegas in 1960 and began working as a subsititute teacher at Rancho High School. He then began teaching at Bridger Junior High School, and took a leave of absence in 1963 to earn his Master's degree. In 1964, he married Patsy Lucile Pace. After earning his degree, he held several positions in the Clark County School District (CCSD).
Mr. Albert Datke was born in Eureka, Utah. Mr. Datke was the first internal revenue agent in Southern Nevada. He and his family relocated to Las Vegas, Nevada permanently in June of 1944. A Mormon and a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Mr. Datke led a very active church and religious life in Las Vegas. He even served as financial clerk and historian clerk for the church.