“We need to talk” he began. Rob was a very calm man but there was a tone of urgency today. “I need to explore some investment options, it’s not personal just something we need to do”

Rob was 68 at that time, retired and had worked hard to provide for his wife and three children. He was a visionary, a builder and had the ability to visualize large projects. His calm demeanor and thoughtful process made our many meetings a great experience. The concern in his voice was out of character and we met a few days later at his home. “It’s not good and I’m not sure how we are for time”, he began. “I’ve been having some odd symptoms lately and got the results of tests just last week, I won’t go into all the details but my brain has cancer” The tears welled up in both our eyes as he went on to explain the gravity of his situation. “The doctors think I might have five years if I’m really lucky but it’s likely closer to three. My big worry is not the investments we have now, it’s finding what would wok best for Minnie.” Rob had looked after the finances their entire lives together and Minnie focused on raising the three children. “It’s always been my role to look after the savings and she just has no inclination or desire to learn about it, so I need to look at some options that would make her life easier when I’m gone, and we’re going to need your help more than ever. What I need most from you is to just always look out for Minnie.”

As an engineer, Rob had done his own Financial Plan and had distilled it down to a rate of return that would keep he and Minnie in great shape for their entire lives. At this time financial planning was not as evolved as it is today. Rob wanted to try various asset management services and make a decision along with Minnie as to what would work best. He brought their long time accountant, Andy, into the mix so he could also be aware and ensure tax efficiency. We tried a few different methods and strategies and after about eighteen months Rob and Minnie made their decision. Over the eighteen months, he had been teaching Minnie some basics of investing, the different kinds of access to managers and markets; it was a Cole’s Notes version but enough to help her make sound decisions.

pressure”, Minnie began, “but I only want to work with you and Andy I don’t want a whole bunch of people telling me what to do” Rob smiled with the confidence of Minnie’s comments. “I’m not getting into the minute details on all those financial numbers about the companies we invest in, I know we’re going to talk about it and I understand some of it but all I really want to know is if I can afford to stay in this home.” Rob and Minnie had designed the home, in the neighborhood Rob had a hand in designing, a beautiful home with a backyard overlooking the lake. The lake where the kids spent summers swimming and they all enjoyed watching the sunsets over the water. As Rob walked me to the car, he stopped and pointed back at the house, “that’s her happy place and I want to thank you for everything, just promise me you’ll always look after Minnie because I think my time is running short.” We had another tearful hug at the end of the driveway. We met a few times after that to make sure things were going as planned. Rob passed away a few months later. Minnie is in her late eighties now and still lives in their home. When I spoke to her last week she said “I know markets are all over the place with all this stuff going on but all I need to know is can I stay in this house?” She knew the answer and I could feel the smile in her voice.

There are many times in a client relationship when it’s not all about the money. It evolves to a higher level of trust and commitment and is something we strive for every day.