More than 25 years ago, Randy came to Michigan with a dream—to build a career in financial planning that would truly make life easier for others. Growing up in farming, he learned early on that success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes patience, hard work, and doing the right things day after day. To Randy, financial planning felt a lot like farming: when you put in the effort and care, growth will come.
One day, during a spontaneous taxi ride from Chicago to Michigan, Randy was given a life-changing opportunity—to be mentored by LaVerne Schut, Senior Advisor at the Investment Centers of America (ICA) office located at Valley Ridge Bank in Kent City, Michigan.
In 2004, LaVerne retired, and around that same time, Elizabeth joined the team. A few years later, when Valley Ridge Bank merged with ChoiceOne Bank in 2006, Randy and Elizabeth continued growing the investment center together. In 2012, Kathy joined, bringing even more strength to a team that shared a common purpose.
After 10 years within the bank, the team felt called to do more. They wanted to focus deeply on financial planning—helping people make sense of complex decisions in a way that felt simple, personal, and meaningful. Because at the end of the day, most people don’t want to spend their time worrying about finances—they want to focus on their families, their experiences, and the moments that matter most.
That passion led to a big step forward. On October 1, 2017, Ridgetown Investments was founded.
Since then, the team has continued to grow. James joined as a Financial Advisor in 2021, mentored by Randy, and together they bring over 30 years of combined experience and hold CFP® designations. In 2023, Tori joined as Administrative Assistant, helping ensure clients receive the care and attention they deserve.
Today, Ridgetown Investments proudly serves clients across Michigan and beyond, with one goal in mind: to help people live the life they want with confidence and clarity.
Because when your financial life feels independent, you’re free to focus on what matters most.