Twenty six years ago, a person living in Butler might not seem surprised to have a salesman arrive at his door, advertising encyclopedias or the latest household gadget.

They also may have found a 35-year-old former art teacher by the name of Russell Bicker at their door, eager to begin a career in financial planning. Those who welcomed him into their homes, unknowingly helped shape his successful career.

Fast forward to today when many sales have gone to the Internet. In fact, the younger generation may be hard-pressed to recall a person coming to their home to provide professional services.

Having worked for New York Life for over 25 years as a top producer and lifetime member of the Million Dollar Roundtable, Russ has found his method of conversation and an easygoing smile makes all the difference in the world.

Now, the clients are invited to schedule appointments in his newly remodeled offices at 502 Stirling Village, Butler. Whether it is for financial advice, or to show off the latest picture of a grandchild, clients of Bicker Financial Services always feel at home.

The determination and hard work of Russ is helping to shape the career of his 38-year-old son, Mark. From their stature to their sense of humor, it is easy to see the resemblance between the two. This second generation financial planner is finding it invaluable working with his father.

Mark is off to a competitive start, having recently received the New Agent of the Year award in the Pittsburgh-Johnstown-West Virginia region for the second consecutive year. An honor that is presented at the company’s annual awards dinner and is given to the agent who is the top producer each of the first three years at the company.

Before his current career with New York Life, Mark enjoyed a successful career as a commercial airline pilot based in Phoenix, Ariz. A career that enhanced skills that benefit his clients on a daily basis.

No doubt he is taking the lead from his father, who throughout his life has stressed the importance of hard work, honesty and personal service to his clients. Mark is thrilled to be back home and to have joined his father in the family business.

While Russ has no plan to retire, Mark says you can be sure that Bicker Financial Services will continue providing quality service to their clients for the next 25 years. Their combined commitment to helping individuals and families plan for life’s “big moments” such as college or retirement helps their clients feel at ease and secure knowing their hard-earned income is at work for them.

This article was submitted by Bicker Financial Services.