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Denny Lerner, CLU®, ChFC®

Founder, Retired

P: (231) 796-8621

E: denny@lernerfinancial.com

Dennis Lerner has enjoyed more than 40 years as a financial advisor and creative planner. He has distinguished himself as a leader in the industry through his imaginative solutions to problems and his ability to develop improved methods and strategies. Passionate, dedicated and caring, Denny has a loyal following of clientele who span the globe. On national platforms, he speaks about financial planning to his peers, but his favorite speech topic is the 5-Minute Financial Plan he developed over 25-years ago. It is a way to assist his clients with a “big picture” perspective on financial planning and provide the tools to organize and plan their financial future. It is simple, insightful and has been successfully used by hundreds of his clients.

He has spent his entire career involved in his community, giving freely of his time and expertise. Having served on various charity boards and foundations over the span of his career, he has helped many charitable organizations in their long-term investment strategies.

In his free time, he enjoys fishing, traveling, golfing and spending time with his family.

Accomplishments & Industry Recognition

• Business Person of the Year – Mecosta County
• Distinguished Alumni Award – Ferris State University
• Northern Lights Award – Category of Business and Commerce – Outstanding Contribution to Business and Industry
• Cambridge Investment Research, Inc. (broker/dealer) – Circle of Excellence Morningstar Investment Services – Advisory Panel Member
• National Quality Award – NAIFA

Community Leadership

• Ferris State University – Past Foundation Board Member, Investment Committee Chairman
• Eagle Village – Past President
• Mecosta County Community Foundation – Past President
• Mecosta-Osceola United Way – Past Chairman
• Mecosta County Chamber of Commerce – Past Board Member
• Mecosta County Development Corporation – Board Member
• Ferris State University School of Business – Leadership Advisory Board Member

Education and Certifications

• Graduated from Ferris State University in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing American College Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC)
• American College Certified Life Underwriter (CLU)
• Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA): Series 6, 7, 22, 63

Associations

• Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) – Qualifying and Life member (Honorees of Million Dollar Round Table must achieve a sales goal predetermined by the MDRT organization and maintain this level throughout the course of one year. Qualified individuals must pay a membership fee in order to participate. Sales amounts are independently verified by the MDRT organization through certifying letters. Qualification for recognition is based on the amount of premium/commission dollars produced over the previous year. This recognition is not representative of any performance returns.)
• National Association of Insurance Financial Advisors (NAIFA)

FINRA Brokercheck Link

Brad Fath

President

P: (231) 796-8621

E: brad@lernerfinancial.com

Brad earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Finance with a minor in Economics from Ball State University. In 1995, he began his career as an independent financial advisor at Lerner Financial. He holds his Series 6, 7, 63 and 66 licenses with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). One of Brad’s major roles in the office is analyzing new investment strategies. His ability to understand and develop new strategies is an invaluable asset to the group and our clients alike. Brad’s dedication and passion in building strong relationships with people are evident in the trust they place in him. Helping his clients achieve financial independence is the greatest reward of all.

Being a lifelong resident of Mecosta County, Brad has always believed in giving back to the community where he lives, works and raises his 3 children. He is a graduate of Leadership Mecosta, was a Director on the Mecosta County Community Foundation Board, sat on the Investment Committee for the Fremont Area Community Foundation, is a Board Member at Eagle Village and is on the Ferris State University Rebounders Club.

Brad finds great joy and pride in being an involved father and role model to his children, Ben, Grace and Izzy. Whether it’s attending local sporting events or working/playing outside, Brad and his wife, Sara, feel very blessed to be able to raise their family in Mecosta County.

FINRA Brokercheck Link

Nick Scheible, CFP®

Sr. Advisor/Partner

P: (231) 796-8621

E: nick@lernerfinancial.com

Nick Scheible joined Lerner Financial in 2016. He came to the group after spending seven years with Big Rapids Public Schools as the Director of Finance and Athletic Director. Before that, Nick spent three years in the banking/mortgage industry with Rock Financial and Isabella Bank. Today, he works with clients to help them create their financial path, knowing that each of their circumstances are different and they require personalization to meet their goals. In October of 2025, Nick became a Partner of the firm, further solidifying his commitment to serving clients and contributing to the continued growth and success of the organization.

Nick currently holds his Series 7 and 66 designations with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. He is also holds his Certified Financial Planner designation.  Nick graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from Ferris State University in 2005 and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Ferris State in 2010. While at Ferris State University, Nick was also a member of their Division I Hockey program and, during his final two seasons, he served as a Captain of the team.

Nick has spent almost his entire life in Big Rapids, which has allowed him to see many positive changes over the years. He loves being a part of a team that shares his values of affecting change in the community through involvement and active engagement. Nick is a past president of the Mecosta County Chamber of Commerce and the Mecosta County Community Foundation, as well as a graduate of the Leadership Mecosta Program. He believes deeply in giving back to the community that has given so much to him.

His biggest accomplishment and the most important thing to Nick is his family—his wife, Melissa, and their two sons, Rowan and Grady. He and his wife are raising their family with the same strong community values that have been instilled in Nick. They enjoy attending games and supporting local teams, including hockey, baseball, football, and soccer. As a family, they also love traveling. In his free time, Nick enjoys golfing and occasionally playing men’s league hockey.

Community Leadership

•     Mecosta County Community Foundation, Board Member
•     FSU Hockey Blueline Club, President
•     FSU Athletic Advisory Committee, Member

Education and Certifications

•   Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, Ferris State University
•   Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA), Ferris State University
•   FINRA Series 7 and 66
•   Life, Health and Annuities Licensed
•  Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP?)

FINRA Brokercheck Link

Ben Fath

Financial Advisor

P: (231) 796-8621

E: ben@lernerfinancial.com

Ben started his career with Lerner Financial in May of 2023. Before joining the team, he received a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and Technology from Ferris State University. After graduating college, he spent one year in Cleveland, OH before moving back to pursue a career in finance.

As a financial advisor, Ben is eager to meet with clients and help them navigate the complexities of financial planning. He is passionate about understanding each individual’s unique circumstances and aspirations, allowing him to provide tailored strategies that support their financial goals and secure their future.

Ben is particularly excited to be back in the Big Rapids area and is looking forward to actively engaging with the community that has contributed so much to his life. He values the strong relationships he has with his family and appreciates working alongside such dedicated colleagues. In his free time, Ben enjoys the outdoors, fishing, hunting, and exploring wildlife. He also loves supporting Bulldogs sports, which keeps him connected to his local roots.

Kelly Brockette

Sr. Specialist

P: (231) 629-8616

E: kelly@lernerfinancial.com

Kelly began her financial career at Lerner Financial in September 1994 working for Dennis Lerner.   She is a graduate of the University of Michigan with a B.A. in Economics, has her NASD Series 6, 7, 63 and 66 securities licenses and a Michigan Life and Variable Annuity license. 

Kelly is currently supporting investment clients who work with Brad Fath. She is highly focused and simplifies the most complex cases. She is well-versed in stock and fund research and is the case coordinator for our managed money accounts. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and experience with the other LF team members and is working on transferring that knowledge to the next generation in anticipation of retirement soon. 

Kelly resides in Big Rapids with her husband and travels to visit three grown children and three grandchildren. In her spare time, she loves to spend time camping, hiking, kayaking and watching Michigan football.

FINRA Brokercheck Link

Trisha Olds, FPQP™

Sr. Relationship & Training Coordinator

P: (231) 629-8621

E:Trisha@lernerfinancial.com

Trisha joined our Lerner Financial team working with advisor, Brad Fath, in October 2003.  Prior to that, she worked in the banking industry for 5 years where she offered customers a variety of financial products and exceptional customer service.  Her 20+ years of customer service in the financial industry have given her a great foundation for her current positions at Lerner as a Sr. Relationship Coordinator as well as our employee Training Coordinator.   Being highly organized and detail oriented have prepared her to assist our clients with their insurance and investment service needs through the years. She very much enjoys developing relationships with our clients by working with them one-on-one as well as sharing her knowledge and experience with the other LF team members. 

Since joining our team, she has obtained her Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional™ designation from the College of Financial Planning along with her Michigan Life Insurance License which she added to her current Associates of Business Degree from Baker College. 

Trisha resides in Stanwood with her husband, Les, and son, Brayden. In her spare time, she enjoys reading for her Book Club, boating on the Muskegon River & other Michigan waterways, traveling in and outside the U.S., watching movies & TV series, playing dice in her Bunko group, and spending as much time as she can with family and friends. 

Lisa Dettloff, FPQP™

Team Leader and Specialist

P: (231) 629-8614

E: lisa@lernerfinancial.com

Lisa joined the Lerner Financial team in 2007. After three years working in our group benefits division, Lisa transitioned to a case manager and service coordinator for investments and managed money. She is detail-oriented, highly organized, a member of our investment committee, and has recently taken on the administration of the 401(k) business and portfolio analysis. 

Lisa is a graduate of Ferris State University, has earned a Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional™ (FPQP™) designation from the College of Financial Planning, and is also licensed for life, health and disability insurance products. She resides in Reed City with her husband, Scott, and has two children, Nate and Erin. In her spare time, she enjoys family, vacationing in warm climates and interior design.

Sara Fath

Director of Finance

P: (231) 796-8621

E: sara@lernerfinancial.com

Sara joined Lerner Financial in 2006 as a service coordinator. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree of Science from Central Michigan University in 1996. Sara has a passion for gardening and can often be seen taking care of the office plants, inside and out. 

She enjoys spending her free time with her husband, Brad, and their three children, Ben, Grace and Izzy. A lifelong resident of Mecosta County, Sara and Brad are proud to raise their family in such a wonderful community.

Maureen Krueger

Integrator

P: (231) 796-8621

E: maureen@lernerfinancial.com

Maureen joined Lerner Financial in November of 2019. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Science and English Secondary Education from Western Michigan University in 2009. Working for five years as a teacher and positive behavior intervention program specialist for Grand Rapids Public Schools, Maureen has ample experience in the importance of building relationships, organization and team effort. With the demands of a young family, she exited teaching to work flexible hours for a window treatment firm acting as a project manager and estimator. In the five years with this firm, she is able to bring a depth of knowledge for client relationships, back-end processing for successful completion rates, and a hunger to understand processes at a micro-level for successful implementation. 

An avid supporter of community involvement, Maureen volunteers as a girl scout troop leader, meal-train participant for the local Mops group, and helper in her daughter, Adaline’s, classroom at Riverview Elementary. She and her family (husband Chuck, daughter Adaline and son Jude) live in Big Rapids. Maureen enjoys examining nature, fossil hunting, working on her hobby farm, and outdoor family adventures in her spare time.

Ryan Wernette

Functional Manager and Service Specialist 

P: (231) 796-8621

E: RYan@lernerfinancial.com

Ryan joined Lerner Financial in February 2023 as a Service Specialist. Since then, he has assumed the role of Functional Manager, focusing on process improvements and efficiencies to enhance both client and team experiences. He holds a degree in Healthcare from Ferris State University and brings six years of customer service experience from the local hospital in Big Rapids. Ryan remains committed to enhancing his skills and continuing to contribute to the team's success in his role. Ryan's ability to find humor in everyday situations not only boosts morale, but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among colleagues. His cheerful disposition and quick wit make him a joy to work with, ensuring that even the busiest days are filled with laughter and smiles.  Ryan is a dedicated professional who approaches his work with enthusiasm and a can-do attitude, making him an invaluable member of our team. 

Outside of work, Ryan values quality time with his family and enjoys outdoor activities. His interests include exploring nature through hunting, off-roading, and farming. He is also an enthusiastic supporter of local sports, frequently attending games to cheer on his niece and nephew.

Tiffanie Robison

Office and Event specialist

P: (231) 796-8621

E: tiffanie@lernerfinancial.com

Tiffanie Robison joined Lerner Financial in May 2023 as an Office and Event Specialist, bringing over a decade of experience in client relations. In her role, Tiffanie is responsible for managing front desk operations with efficiency, ensuring a welcoming environment for all clients. She excels in coordinating a variety of client events, from educational seminars to appreciation gatherings, all aimed at enhancing client engagement and strengthening relationships.

Before joining our financial group, Tiffanie served as an Office Manager and Medical Biller at a local physical therapy practice, where she consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to exceptional customer service. Her ability to build long-lasting relationships with clients has been pivotal in her career, and she aims to replicate this success in her current position by creating memorable experiences through well-organized events.

Tiffanie, resides in the  Big Rapids area,  with her husband and their four children. She enjoys quality family time and traveling to new places. She loves relaxing at the beach and has a passion for gardening.

Jeff Oosterhouse

Specialist

P: (231) 796-8621

E:JeFF@lernerfinancial.com

Jeff  began his financial career as a Specialist at Lerner Financial in June of 2024.  He brings focus and attention to detail to this new role. Jeff is driven by results and efficiency and will use these talents to help the firm operate at the highest level. 

Jeff graduated from Michigan Technological University with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. He has spent the last 15 years working in the defense industry where he learned critical problem-solving skills and process improvement strategies.  

In his time away from work, Jeff enjoys spending time outdoors boating with family and friends, making sure to utilize the short summer months to their fullest. In the winter months you will find Jeff tinkering at home with DIY projects.  

Jeff lives in Big Rapids with faithful dogs; Oliver and Charlie. He enjoys visits from his two adult children and grandchild. Jeff has lived in or near Big Rapids all his life and raised both children here. He looks forward to working in the community that means so much to him. 

Audra Garchow

Office and Event Specialist

P: (231) 796-8621

E:audra@lernerfinancial.com

Audra Garchow joined Lerner Financial in July 2024, bringing with her over a decade of experience in customer service. As one of our dedicated Office and Event Specialists, Audra excels in creating seamless and memorable experiences for both clients and colleagues.

Originally from the Big Rapids area, Audra has deep roots in the community. She and her husband are proud parents to three wonderful children: Gretchen, Cole, and Dalton. Family is at the heart of Audra’s life, and she cherishes the moments spent with loved ones, especially during the crisp fall evenings around a campfire.

Audra’s passion for fostering connections and her meticulous attention to detail make her an invaluable asset to our team. She is excited to leverage her extensive skills and expertise to enhance our office operations and event planning, ensuring every interaction is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.

We are thrilled to have Audra on board and look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly bring to our organization.

 

Noah Cutler

Insurance specialist

P: (231) 629-8618

E:noah@lernerfinancial.com

Noah Cutler is a dedicated insurance professional at Lerner Financial, where he leverages his expertise to provide tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of his clients. With a deep understanding of the insurance landscape, Noah is committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate their financial futures with confidence. His analytical skills and attention to detail ensure that clients receive optimal coverage and strategic advice, fostering long-term relationships built on trust and integrity.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Noah is passionate about golf and is an avid supporter of Detroit sports and Michigan State athletics. He enjoys exploring the latest in movies and video games, often finding inspiration in their storytelling and creativity. This blend of interests not only enriches his personal life but also enhances his approach to client engagement, allowing him to connect with clients on a deeper level.

Kaeyla Reid

Service Specialist

P: (231) 796-8621

E:Kaeyla@lernerfinancial.com

Kaeyla joined Lerner Financial  in August of 2024, bringing with her a solid foundation of administrative experience and a passion for helping others. Prior to her role at the firm, she worked for six years as an Administrative Assistant at an accounting firm. This experience has provided her with a deep understanding of office management, client relations, and the importance of maintaining efficiency in a busy work environment. Kaeyla earned her associate’s degree in business, which gave her a strong technical grounding in the field, and she is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in business at Ferris State University. This commitment to furthering her education reflects her dedication to both personal and professional growth, as well as her ambition to take on more advanced roles in the future.

Kaeyla’s roots are firmly planted in her hometown of White Cloud. Despite the busy nature of her professional life, she values family time above all else. When she’s not working or studying, Kaeyla enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Gage, their daughter Karsyn, and their dog, Odin. Being a mother is one of her greatest joys, and she takes immense pride in balancing the demands of her career with the love and attention she devotes to her family. Other things she enjoys are shopping, boating, skiing, and binge watching her favorite shows.

Caleb Newlin

Relationship Coordinator

P:(231) 796-8621

E:CAleb@lernerfinancial.com

Caleb joined the Lerner Financial team in April 2025, bringing with him a strong foundation in client service and relationship management. A native of Big Rapids, he began his academic career at Ferris State University before earning his Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Business from the University of Cincinnati.

With a year of experience as a Relationship Coordinator, Caleb has developed a proven ability to connect with clients and deliver exceptional service. His approachable nature, high energy, and genuine interest in others allow him to build meaningful relationships and create a positive client experience. He is committed to a “client comes first” philosophy, ensuring each individual receives thoughtful, personalized support and communication.

Now back in Big Rapids, Caleb is excited to serve and give back to his local community. Outside of the office, he values time with his wife, Kaitlyn, and their family. He also enjoys Michigan’s outdoors, including fishing, hunting, and exploring the Great Lakes.

Danny Witbeck

Specialist

P: (231) 796-8621

E:danny@lernerfinancial.com

Danny joined Lerner Financial in November as a Specialist, where he supports clients and helps uphold the firm’s commitment to delivering high-quality financial services. He grew up in Evart and earned his degree in Business Administration and Finance from Northwood University, and he looks forward to furthering his role and growing with the firm.

While at Northwood, Danny was a member of the university’s baseball team as a pitcher—an experience that strengthened his work ethic, teamwork, and discipline. He is known for his always-positive mindset and for bringing energy and a friendly smile to everything he does.

Outside the office, Danny enjoys spending time outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and golfing. He also values time with family and his girlfriend Mackenzi and is excited to coach baseball and give back to a community that poured so much into him. Danny enjoys staying active and engaged both personally and professionally.