Cleve started carving in 1986 after receiving a knife and a few gouges as a Christmas present from his wife and son. He has authored three books on caricature carving: Cowboy Carving, Hanging In There, andCarving Fishermen and the Tall Tale. He teaches classes and seminars regularly and judges shows when time will permit.

In his normal life, Cleve is a Professor of Adult Education at the University of Idaho and lives with his wife Sandy in Boise, Idaho. He is a member of the Idaho Woodcarvers Guild, Northwest Caricature Carvers Society, National Woodcarvers Association and the Affiliated Woodcarvers Ltd. Cleve became a member of the Caricature Carvers of America in October, 1995.

Cleve is available to teach woodcarving seminars and judge exhibits and shows. His carvings are available for sale.