The Agency torch gets passed from one Anderson to another

Lynn Anderson has logged an impressive 44.5 years as the Insurance Agent at American State Agency in Grygla. Retirement is on the horizon for him with hopes of hanging up his hat sometime in the fall of 2021. With the end of his working career in sight, Lynn says there is some apprehension. “Everybody works their whole life for this time, but it’ll be a big adjustment in my daily schedule,” he says. “I’m a people person and enjoy working with others. I have many clients that have been with me for many years and have built a trusting relationship. Also, my coworkers in the bank will be missed. They’re like an extended family to me,” he added. Though he’s going to miss all the good people he’s worked with over the years, Lynn is looking forward to coming and going when he wants and hopefully doing some traveling with his wife Ruth, and enjoying the free time.

But first, he is focusing on passing the torch and training in his new replacement. American State Agency has hired Lynn’s son, Robbie Anderson, as the new Insurance Agent. As of December 14th, Robbie is officially on the job and looking forward to the new venture. Previously employed at Digi-Key as a Supervisor in Order Fulfillment, he is looking forward to working in Grygla; that’s where he and his family have made their home. Robbie and his wife Alisha have three kids: Presley (5), Briggs (3) and Jett (1). Though he never imagined he’d one day take over for his dad, Robbie feels this is the right fit for him. He explained, “Growing up, I didn’t have a very good idea of what my dad did other than sell insurance. The thought of an office job never interested me as I’ve always been someone who likes to be on the move, but as I’ve gotten older, my priorities have changed. I started thinking long-term versus right now and this is a good fit for me. Especially as our kids get older, working close to home and their school makes things so much easier.”

Robbie is working towards getting licensed, along with familiarizing himself with the current policies and meeting the customers. Lynn will still be working in some capacity until his retirement in the fall. He provided some words of encouragement to Robbie as he begins this new chapter, “I’ve told him growing up the same as I would to a stranger we were hiring. Be honest with people and treat them like you’d like to be treated. Take the extra step to help complete forms needed or just to answer questions or explain coverages. Insurance terminology is kind of a foreign language to most so there’s always going to be questions. Everybody appreciates a helping hand, especially from someone who shows genuine concern.”

When you stop by American State Bank & Agency, make sure to give Robbie a big welcome, he’ll be there with a contagious smile and a willingness to help. We wish both Lynn and Robbie well in their new roles.