Edwin W. (Ed) Thauer, Jr. is a highly respected and accomplished Wealth Manager with over 49 years of experience in the financial services industry. As a key advisor at Airey Financial Group in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Ed has built a distinguished career providing comprehensive financial planning strategies, specializing in business insurance, retirement planning, employee benefits, estate preservation, and wealth management solutions for individuals, families, and business owners.

Ed began his professional journey in 1976 when he entered the life insurance business. Through his dedication to excellence and ongoing professional development, he earned both the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designations from The American College in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. Additionally, he is a Licensed Life Insurance Counselor in the State of Michigan and currently serves as a Registered Representative and Investment Advisor Representative with OneAmerica Securities, Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC.

Over the years, Ed has become a thought leader and a mentor within the industry. He is a life member of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), a prestigious global association representing the top 1% of financial professionals. He has earned Top of the Table status six times, an honor that distinguishes the top 3% of MDRT members. His passion for service extends to his active involvement with the MDRT Foundation, where he has served as an Excalibur Knight and frequently participates in charitable fundraising efforts, including national phone-a-thons.

Ed’s leadership extends well beyond his client work. He is a past president of the Western Michigan Estate Planning Council, the Life Insurance Leaders of Michigan, and the Western Michigan Chapter of the Society of Financial Service Professionals. He is also an active member of The Pinnacle Study Group, a national consortium of elite financial professionals, and he regularly presents at symposiums, seminars, and client group events focused on financial literacy, tax strategies, retirement planning, and business continuity.

An active member of the Grand Rapids Economic Club and Grand Rapids Lions Club, Ed is deeply committed to civic engagement and professional collaboration. He was honored with the 2016 Distinguished Service Award by NAIFA West Michigan and the Society of Financial Service Professionals in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the industry and the local community.

Ed’s industry expertise is complemented by a holistic approach to advising, grounded in personal integrity, a strong sense of purpose, and a deep desire to help others. Whether working with a small business on succession planning or advising a family on estate preservation, Ed is known for his strategic thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and unwavering dedication to client outcomes.

Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Ed is a proud alumnus of Grand Rapids Community College and Grand Valley State University. He has been married to his wife, Karen, for 51 years, and together they have raised three daughters and enjoy spending time with their 10 grandchildren. Outside of his professional life, Ed is a passionate golfer—belonging to two country clubs—an avid reader, and enjoys traveling with his wife. He is also an active member of Ada Bible Church, where his faith continues to guide his values and actions.

Driven by his personal mission to treat others with respect, lead by example, and pursue knowledge, Ed believes that “The Future Belongs to the Informed.” Now in the legacy-building phase of his career, Ed is actively seeking meaningful board opportunities where he can apply his wealth of experience, leadership insight, and ethical guidance to help organizations thrive and prepare for the future.

Character: Ed is guided by integrity, respect for others, and a strong moral compass, consistently striving to do the right thing and lead by example.

Knowledge: With nearly five decades of experience and multiple professional designations, Ed possesses deep expertise in financial planning, estate preservation, and business insurance.

Strategic: Ed brings a strategic mindset to helping clients and businesses navigate complex financial decisions, succession planning, and long-term wealth management.

Communication: A skilled communicator, Ed has presented to national study groups and employer audiences, sharing insights with clarity, empathy, and professionalism.

Registered Representative and Investment Advisor Representative of and securities offered through OneAmerica Securities, Inc., A RegisteredInvestment Advisor, Member FINRA, SIPC. Airey Financial Group is not an affiliate of OneAmerica Securities and is not a broker-dealer orRegistered Investment Advisor.