About

Tri-Star Trust

Achieve your financial goals through personalized wealth management solutions from our team of caring, local, objective experts.

Our History

When Tri-Star Trust was founded in 2000, the founders set out to create a different kind of wealth management firm – one that holds itself to a higher fiduciary standard and one that makes a lasting difference in the lives of all they serve. Their previous experience in the financial services industry made them aware of corporate-centered practices – such as pushing specific products on clients – that did not ring true with them. They wanted to introduce a client-centered firm that takes a genuine, personal interest in its clients, employees, and the community.

Our founders connected with some of the community’s leading figures who share these same core values. These leaders, whose names are synonymous with giving back to the community, have become valued shareholders and board members.

Through strong relationships and an intentional purpose, we have grown to a staff of more than 60 professionals, managing over $3 billion in client assets, contributing to more than 170 local non-profits, and expanding to four convenient locations in the Great Lakes Bay Region and Greater Lansing Area – Saginaw, Lansing, Midland and Frankenmuth.

Since 2000, our services have been focused on financial planning, investment management, trust administration, corporate retirement planning, and philanthropic solutions for our clients.

Who We Are

Tri-Star Trust offers personalized, comprehensive wealth management solutions. By taking the time to fully understand your needs as an individual, corporation, nonprofit or private foundation, our experienced professionals provide clarity, guidance and mentorship to fulfill your financial vision. Through the stated values that guide us, our goal is to be your most trusted and valued wealth management partner.

Our Vision

To be the most trusted, valued
wealth management partner.

Caring

Caring for our clients,
community and each other.

Objectivity

Doing what is right for each other.

Harmony

Working together to provide a higher level of service.

Enthusiasm

Being enthusiastic in what we do every day.

Integrity

Being ethical, respectful and
honest at all times.

Trusted Fiduciary

As a Trust Bank, we must meet a higher fiduciary standard than traditional Retirement Investment Advisor firms. As your fiduciary, we are bound ethically to act on your behalf – not ours.

We focus on the best solutions for your unique situation. We help you understand how we are investing your wealth. Most important, we do not benefit from your individual investment options, meaning our Relationship Managers don’t get kickbacks, bonuses, or vacations by recommending certain funds. By removing any possible incentive, we will always be objective when recommending the right solutions for your needs. Our incentive is your success!

Conscious
Capitalism

We are part of the Conscious Capitalism movement — believing that business can make a positive impact on all of the people it touches and the world we share together. Business can elevate humanity and practice consciously, focusing on a higher purpose, stakeholder integration, conscious leadership, and a conscious culture.

We are active members and sponsors of the Great Lakes Bay Region chapter of Conscious Capitalism. You are welcome to join in this movement.

Giving Back

Our higher purpose drives how we make a positive, long-term impact on our local communities. In addition to helping individuals, foundations and endowments make an impact through charitable services, our personal commitment to giving back as a company and as individuals remains unwavering.

We understand that we exist for reasons beyond just making a profit. Tri-Star Trust has proudly given back an average of 10 percent of our earnings annually as grants/donations to the communities we serve.

Sponsorships & Charitable Contributions

Each year, Tri-Star provides sponsorship and support to help finance the efforts of non-profit organizations within our communities. The charitable commitment is achieved through sponsorships made directly by Tri-Star Trust.

Financial support is intended to build community relationships by supporting the charitable work of our employees, clients, and customers.

Are you interested in being considered
as a community partner?

Higher Purpose

“Building caring, geniune relationships that strengthen families and transform our communities.”

Board of Directors

Tri-Star Trust is fortunate to have an outstanding Board of Directors driving our higher purpose. The board is made up of leaders in both business and the community. Their message remains consistent: provide the highest-quality wealth management solutions and be a leader in community service.

Dr. Waheed Akbar

Orthopedic Surgeon,
MyMichigan Health

Dr. James Bicknell

Former President & CEO,
MyMichigan Physician Group

Michael Bierlein

President & CEO,
Bierlein Companies

Greg Brogan

Managing Partner,
Brogan. Reed.
Van Gorder & Associates

Stella Cash

Senior Assistant to President of MSIJ International Engagement

Mitzi Dimitroff

Owner,
RDS Management

J.W. Fisher

President,
Fisher Contracting

Mark Flegenheimer

Former President,
Michigan Sugar

Dick Garber

President,
Garber Management Group

Karolyn Goslin

Former Merrill Lynch
District Administrative
Manager

Dan Kozakiewicz

Chairman,
Three Rivers Corporation

Gene Pickelman

Co-Founder,
Tri-Star Trust

Larry Preston

Co-Founder, 
Tri-Star Trust

Joseph Ruth

Former Executive VP & COO,
UM-Health Sparrow

Pete Shaheen

Vice President,
Shaheen Development

Don Sheets

Former Vice Chair,
Dow Corning

Joe VanderKelen

President & CEO
SMI Snow Makers, Inc.