Ned was born in Independence (August 30, 1952). He attended local schools including Independence Community College for one year before transferring to Kansas State University where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Biology.

Ned worked summers in Riverside Park beginning in 1972. Following graduation in May of 1974, Ned began full-time employment at Riverside Park the following Monday. He was appointed Park Supervisor in 1983.

Ned's Independence roots are deep, tracing back to the late 1800s. His grandfather, John Stichman, Sr., was Secretary of the Chamber of Commerce from 1924 until 1935 during which time the zoo started in what is now Kiddyland. and the "Canyon Zoo" where the bears and cougars are today. Working closely with Mayor Ralph Mitchell, Monkey Island, the Swan Pool, and several other projects were constructed. In addition, the Chamber of Commerce, which had been the Commercial Club, was chartered as the Chamber of Commerce.