Great Lakes Retirement Solutions, Inc.

Learn About Our Investment Approach

Our Mission Statement

We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in our relationship with you, our client. We have a Fiduciary duty. That means we must put your best interests ahead of ours when making recommendations.

We Won't

  • Chase Bubbles (HOT Sectors)
  • Stock Pick (Guess with Your Money)
  • Track Record Invest (Buy the fund of the month)
Great Lakes Retirement Solutions, Inc.

We Will

  • Manage your Investments Prudently (Buy & Hold to achieve Market Returns)
  • Diversify Globally (Methodically Reduce Risk with exposure to additional Asset Classes)
  • Rebalance (Keep your portfolio at the proper Risk Parameters that You choose)

Our Team

Great Lakes Retirement Solutions, Inc.

Matthew Starke
President, Investment Advisor Representative

Matthew Starke was raised in Hemlock, MI, and is a current resident of Saginaw Township. He is a graduate of Northwood University with a Bachelor's in Business Degree. He attained his Series 7 General Securities and his Series 66 Michigan "Blue Skies", and Michigan Variable Life, Health, and Annuity License Designations in 2001. Matthew is the owner and Investment Advisor Representative for Great Lakes Retirement Solutions, Inc., a Michigan Registered Investment Advisor. Mr. Starke takes a coaching approach to investing, providing individuals and business owners a framework for successful investing. He doesn't "sell a product" and lets you handle the ramifications. Every recommendation takes to hear the client's best interest when it comes to portfolio design, risk reduction, and how the investments integrate concerning taxes, getting income when needed, and estate planning. With an eye for detail, Matthew has experience in dealing with complex financial planning issues and asset management for the accumulation, income, and preservation of investment assets. His focus is to play a key role in finding solutions to client retirement problems, and then help clients take advantage of opportunities to secure and grow their wealth. Matthew is a co-founder and Past President of the Midland chapter of Business Networks International, is a Member of the Midland Chamber of Commerce, and serves as President of the BFNHA board of directors. In 2015, he was appointed to the Board of Directors for Catholic Federal Credit Union in Saginaw. He is a graduate of the Saginaw 1000 Leaders program. Matthew has won the Reader's Choice Silver Medal in 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2013 and Gold Medals in 2009, 2012, 2015, and 2016 for Best Investment Counselor/Firm from Midland Daily News. Matthew has qualified for Million Dollar Roundtable in the insurance industry numerous times. Matthew spends a great deal of time conducting investor coaching workshops for individuals and businesses throughout the community. Matthew was a candidate for Saginaw Township Trustee in the 2012 campaign and dedicates time to his local church and enjoys spending time with his wife Kristin and their three children, Jacob, Kate, and Jack. His interests include golf, hunting, and real estate investing along with some college and professional sports.

Read More
Great Lakes Retirement Solutions, Inc.

Rebecca Koltvedt
Client Services Associate

Rebecca joined Great Lakes Retirement Solutions, Inc. in the fall of 2014. She resides in Saginaw Township with her husband John, and their three children Lauren, John Jr., and Jack. Rebecca enjoys running and spending time with family and friends.

Phone (989) 401-2949

Read More
Great Lakes Retirement Solutions, Inc.

Zachery Smith
Financial Advisor

Hello, my name is Zachery Smith. I married my high school sweetheart, Michelle, in June 2023. We have two dogs, Gordie and Sammy. We have both lived in the Saginaw area our whole lives and have no plans of moving. In my free time, I spend time with Michelle, Gordie, my family, and my friends. I also enjoy watching Detroit sports and traveling as often as we can. I knew I wanted to be a financial advisor when I was seventeen after I saw first-hand how impactful a financial advisor can be in a family's life. Once I graduated from Northwood University in 2020 with my Bachelor's in business Management, I started working with a firm in Mount Pleasant to start my career as a financial advisor. After gaining experience, I partnered with my father-in-law in May 2022. Since then, David and I have helped many clients with their financial futures, and we are excited to continue making an impact in our client's lives. I personally look at this career as what I was called to do. Through my life experiences, I have been able to translate that into a passion to help others in any way I can. My main goal when a client leaves a meeting with me is to feel as though they gained value or are better off from having that conversation.

Read More