Director of Planning
Dean has dedicated over three decades to helping people retire. As Director of Planning, he is focused on guiding families and individuals through the complexities of retirement to help them feel confident about the next phase of life. Dean leads the team responsible for helping clients make decisions that will help them build a RetireSecure Roadmap, a customized, written plan that covers everything from investments and retirement income to Medicare and legacy.
He is driven by a vision to broaden Merkle Retirement Planning’s impact and helping an increasing number of families and individuals navigate their path to retirement.
His professional credentials are comprehensive, including the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™️ and Chartered Financial Consultant Designation®️. He has passed the Series 6, 7, 24, 51, and 63 securities exams and has secured his life, health, and accident insurance licenses in Iowa. His extensive career and knowledge include 30 years at Principal Financial Group where he lead teams focused on rollover IRA’s, assisting participants that have experienced a job change, and helping participants sign up for their employer sponsored 401(k) plans.
Travel holds a special place in his heart, especially journeys shared with his wife, Courtnay, and his three children. One of their favorite places is Colorado, where Dean completed ten ascents of Pikes Peak in ten years. Dean is also a talented musician, lending his drum talents to two local bands and the Lutheran Church of Hope worship team.