Don Reutemann

Troy shaped me during years when the city was finding its footing after manufacturing left. The neighborhoods where you grew up determined your worldview, and mine taught me that loyalty matters above almost everything else.

I ran a family retail operation before discovering this profession. Watching what happened when planning worked well and seeing the consequences when it didn't convince me financial strategy isn't abstract theory. Business ownership showed me how exhausting it becomes when you're constantly reacting instead of building systems that support your actual life. When our sons reached elementary school age, I pivoted entirely. I wanted to show up for their milestones.

After graduating from the University of Colorado, I spent over two decades developing expertise that combines what I learned running a business with technical knowledge. The CFP®, RPA, and AIF® credentials matter because this work requires staying current. I maintain securities and insurance licenses because comprehensive planning demands multiple tools.

My practice centers on two areas where I've seen the biggest gaps. Small business retirement plans need someone who understands the owner's perspective, not just compliance requirements. For individuals and families, I build financial plans that start with what someone wants their life to look like before discussing investment vehicles or tax strategies. My days include meeting with clients to review accounts, conducting trustee meetings, presenting to prospective clients, leading educational sessions for plan participants, and supervising our team.

What keeps me engaged is the work itself and the people I get to serve. Growing our practice while improving how we operate excites me because better systems mean better outcomes for everyone who relies on us.

Betsy and I have lived in the Capital Region for our entire marriage, which recently crossed the four-decade mark. Our son William runs a music venue out in Colorado. Our other son, Charlie, is my partner here at the firm and works alongside me daily. His wife Chelsea works in nursing, and their two young boys remind us what matters most.

Skiing is the one athletic pursuit where I have actual skill. Golf happens regularly despite my lack of talent because it creates time with people I care about. I've accumulated more than 800 classic rock albums on vinyl and collected enough books and memorabilia about rock history to fill several shelves. Travel appeals to both Betsy and me when we can step away.

I have served on the Board of Trustees of La Salle Institute in Troy, NY, for over forty years. It is a Catholic school of which I am an Alumnus. My father, uncle, brother, sons, and nephew all graduated from there. I've stepped back from most nonprofit boards and business associations to let younger leaders take over, though I continue supporting an adaptive skiing organization financially after teaching for several years.