Dr. Isaak was born in Charles City and grew up in Mason City. He attended the University of Iowa and received his medical degree in 1980. He spent 4 years at the Mayo Clinic as a resident physician in ophthalmology. As a board certified ophthalmologist, he began practice in Mason City in 1984.

 He and his wife Cathy have been married since 1977. They have 3 children, Emily, Jeffrey, and Courtney. Dr. Isaak has served on many local boards and community projects. He enjoys exercising, watersports, skiing, and gardening