Russ is a recognized specialist on the Kansas education pension system and has more than 35 years of experience as a financial advisor, earning the AIF® designation from the Center for Fiduciary Studies in 2014. He is a member of *Ed Slott’s Elite IRA Advisor Group, an exclusive organization of financial advisors dedicated to being leaders in the IRA industry. He also is an Investment Advisory Representative with Ameritime, and a member of both the Society of Financial Service Professionals and the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA). He attended Baker University, then transferred and graduated from St. Mary of the Plains in Dodge City, Kansas.

Russ and Annette--who recently retired from teaching 4th grade for 32 years--have five children (two of whom have been teachers) and ten grandchildren. They will always hold Kimber Rose, their adopted daughter from Guatemala, in their hearts, as she passed away in 2021. Russ and Annette stay busy with their grandchildren, and enjoy traveling the world together.

Angie Ford is a founding member of Compass Financial Resources, LLC, and Ameritime, LLC, and has worked in the insurance and financial services industry since 1987. Angie assists with presenting educational Ameritime workshops as well as researching and structuring financial plans for clients of Compass Financial Resources, LLC. She received her bachelor’s degree from Avila College.

Engaged in a lifetime of education demonstrates her commitment to provide our clients with professional advice and service. Angie has earned the Chartered Financial Consultant, the Chartered Life Underwriter and the Retirement Income Certified Professional designations from the American College. She is a member of *Ed Slott’s Master Elite IRA Advisor Group, an organization of financial advisors dedicated to being leaders in the IRA industry. Angie is also active in local professional organizations including the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors and the Society of Financial Services Professionals.

Angie’s passion is for helping her clients make sense of the financial information to understand how all the pieces fit together. Her husband is a former teacher, and her sister and brother-in-laws were also teachers. She believes the best way to pursue success for her clients is by building long term relationships based on trust, respect and doing what is right for the client.

She resides in Overland Park, KS. When she is not working, Angie can be found with her husband, Chuck. They have two children and three grandchildren. She enjoys nutrition, reading, cooking, exercising and water sports.

Angie is affiliated with the Olathe office.

*Ed Slott’s Elite IRA Advisor Group™.Compass Financial Resources and LPL Financial are not affiliated. 

Like a lot of kids growing up, I dreamed of playing professional football. I was raised cheering for the Kansas State Wildcats—where my father played in the mid-1960s—and I later had the opportunity to play collegiate football at Emporia State University.

Sports played a significant role in shaping who I am today. The values I learned on the field—teamwork, preparation, discipline, accountability, communication, and trust—carry directly into how I work with clients and teammates every day.

As a founding member of Compass Financial Resources, and with more than 30 years in financial services, I’ve learned that the most important part of financial planning is truly understanding people. For me, it’s never just about numbers on a page. It’s about listening carefully, asking thoughtful questions, and helping people connect their financial decisions to what matters most in their lives. My goal is to help clients feel confident, informed, and at ease about their financial future.

My passion for listening and serving others was shaped early by my father, a small-town attorney in Seneca, Kansas. I spent many afternoons in his law office watching him treat every person with respect and genuine care. That example left a lasting impression and continues to influence how I serve my clients today.

Giving back has also been an important part of my journey. I served ten years on the board—and twice as President—of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) chapter, advocating for policies that protect families and the financial professionals who serve them. I am also a past board member of the Greater Kansas City Young Advisor Team.

My son, Drew, teaches middle school history and coaches football and basketball in the Olathe School District, and my daughter, Sophie, attends Kansas State University where she is studying pre-law. Alongside my wife, Jennifer, I enjoy watching our kids grow, pursue their goals, and find their own path.

When I need to recharge, I head to the family farm. Spending time outdoors, mowing, working on the land, and fishing helps me slow down and reset. Those quiet moments give me perspective and energy that I bring back to both my work and my family.

I’m based in our Olathe office, where I continue to serve clients with a relationship-first mindset built on trust, care, and long-term partnership through Compass Financial Resources.

Rob Lane has been in the financial services industry since 1997.  He is a founding member of Compass Financial Resources, LLC.  Prior to Compass, Rob spent nine years as a Kansas history teacher and basketball coach at Bishop Miege in Shawnee Mission, Kansas.  While the subject matter has changed, teaching and providing quality education is what Rob enjoys most.  Rob has both a Business Degree and a History Education Degree from Baker University. 

Outside of work, Rob loves spending time with his wife, Nancy, and family, daughters Jordan and Teresa, son-in-law Blaise Ismert and new grandson, Harley Edward Ismert.

Steve joined Compass Financial Resources, LLC in 2000. His primary focus is to counsel clients and their families on all matters of personal finance. His practice emphasizes retirement income distribution planning, utilizing various forms of investment and insurance products to help pursue his client's financial goals.

Steve's dedication to ongoing education demonstrates his commitment to provide professional advice and service. He is a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) and has earned the designation of Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP). Steve received his bachelor's degree from the University of Kansas. He and his family reside in Gardner, KS. He is affiliated with the Olathe office.

Tyler Lane joined Compass Financial Resources, LLC, in 2017 after previously teaching and coaching middle/high school students for 8 years. Tyler brings that same passion for helping others grow and adapt to life’s many challenges. As a coach, he understands the planning and discipline it takes to achieve a goal. Using this same approach with his clients, Tyler works closely with the Compass Financial Team to support their pursuit of their ideal future financial goals.

Tyler earned his bachelor’s degree at Baker University. He and his wife reside in Lenexa, with their three young children. 

Grant Lane joined Compass Financial Resources, LLC, and Ameritime, LLC, in the Spring of 2005 after 17 rewarding years as a high school social studies instructor and head boys’ basketball coach in central and western Kansas. Grant received his Bachelor of Arts in History and minor in political science with an education endorsement from Baker University.

Grant has worked closely with his brother, Rob, in launching Ameritime into western Kansas. He has found it very rewarding to get the opportunity to help some of the same educators that he had worked with and coached against to make these important decisions about their KPERS pension retirement options.

Grant and his wife, Lori, have been married for over 25 years and have been blessed with four children: Jaylen, Jocelyn, Jaron and Joseph. They live in Hutchinson, Kansas, where Lori is a stay at home mother after spending 10 years as an elementary teacher.

Grant is affiliated with the Hutchinson office.

An educator and coach to his core, Brian Luther was a high school English teacher (18 years) and Head Basketball Coach (25 years) before moving to the financial services industry, motivated by a desire to help hard working educators protect their family's financial future.

Brian is a Financial Advisor with LPL Financial. He is a member of *Ed Slott’s Master Elite IRA Advisor Group, an organization of financial advisors dedicated to being leaders in the IRA industry.

Brian and his wife, Tammy, live in Lincoln, Nebraska. They have two daughters, Shara and Chelsea.

Brian is affiliated with the Lincoln office.

*Ed Slott’s Elite IRA Advisor Group™, Compass Financial and LPL Financial are not affiliated. 

A lifelong educator, John Rundle retired after 40 years in public education and transitioned his knowledge and experience into a new career in the financial services arena with Compass Financial Resources, LLC.  His passion is teaching other educators of the value and importance of their KPERS Pension, retirement planning and life goals. He embraces the opportunity to give back to others in the educational field and to help them find their own financial independence. He also has a special interest in helping young educators, just entering the profession, plan for their long-term financial future. 

For fifteen years, John served as a superintendent of schools. Prior to that, he was a middle school language arts teacher, a coach and also a building principal. John’s love for education began at Kansas State University where he earned a BS in secondary education. After retirement, he received his life and health insurance licenses as well as his Series 6,63,& 65 licenses held through LPL Financial 

Ross Bauer joined Compass Financial Resources, LLC in October 2018 and became part of the Ameritime, LLC team in 2019. He works alongside Rob Lane, servicing new and existing clients and accounts, and conducting fact-finding and discovery meetings with prospective clients. Ross brings more than ten years of experience from the insurance and appraisal industry.

Raised on a farm in western Kansas, Ross earned a business degree from Kansas State University. He currently works out of the Olathe office.

Outside of work, Ross spends much of his time at local hockey rinks cheering on his four sons—Nolan, Jake, Collin, and Brock. He and his wife, Sara, have been married since 2009 and reside in Basehor, Kansas.

After 20 years as superintendent of schools, Tom Alstrom joined Compass Financial Resources, LLC. Raised on a farm, Tom understands the value of planning for the future, and he always stressed to his staff, especially new teachers, the importance of paying yourself first as you plan for your financial future. His days as a college wrestler and coach taught him the value of hard work, a quality he brings into the finance business.

Tom joined the team with a special interest in helping people set and pursue their retirement goals, so they can retire when they choose, and be able to enjoy the lifestyle they want in retirement.  

Tom and his wife, Robi, an educational consultant, live in Halstead, Kansas, and have three children starting careers. Tom is proud that they learned something from their dad and are already investing for their futures. Tom enjoys woodworking, outdoor activities, and spending time with family. He and Robi are always eager to travel in order to find new adventures.  

Steven Miller joined Compass Financial Resources, LLC in 2023.  Before coming to Compass, Steven served as a dedicated educator in Missouri — retiring with 34 years of experience as a teacher, administrator, and coach.  Passionate about helping others, Steven hopes to utilize this passion in guiding others in securing a successful and fulfilling financial future.  With his deep understanding of teaching and mentoring, he is excited that he can continue utilizing his skills as educator to assist individuals with their journey toward achieving their financial goals in retirement, and he has a special interest in helping young educators, just entering the profession, plan for their long-term financial future.

Steven earned his bachelor's degree, master's degree, and Educational Specialist Degree at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.  After retirement, he received his life and health insurance licenses as well as his Series 6, 63, and 65 licenses held through LPL Financial.

Kevin Ille joined the team in 2009 and currently serves as the office’s Practice Specialist.  In this role, he supports the day-to-day operations of the firm, helping keep systems, processes, and people working together effectively.  Kevin also supervises and assists advisors and staff with compliance responsibilities in his role as a Registered Principal, serving as a key internal resource for complex questions and operational guidance.

Kevin earned an Associate’s Degree in Psychology from Barton County Community College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Family Studies and Human Services, with an emphasis in Personal Financial Planning and a minor in Business Administration, from Kansas State University.

Outside of the office, Kevin enjoys an active, family-centered life with his wife and three children and has called Olathe home since 2015.  In his free time, he enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, barbecuing, and following K-State sports as well as the local Kansas City teams.

Jennifer is a graduate of Kansas State University with a degree in graphic design and joined Compass Financial Resources in 2012. As the Director of Client Communications, she leads the strategy and execution of how our brand connects with clients at every stage of their journey. Her role blends creative direction with relationship management, ensuring that each interaction reflects our values, attention to detail, and commitment to long-term partnerships.

She oversees website design initiatives and manages video production from concept through delivery directing the creation of marketing materials across digital and print platforms.

Beyond creative work, she prioritizes meaningful client relationships, taking pride in recognizing and celebrating clients during important milestones in their lives, reinforcing trust, appreciation, and a personalized experience.

Mike Deines is the second generation in his family to be in the financial services industry. He thrives on working under the advisor's direction to help find administrative solutions for clients. As an administrative assistant, he loves the challenge of researching cases and analyzing client goals to provide support to the financial professionals who help meet peoples' needs.

Mike specializes in pension research for KPERS members and out-of-state school system pension members. He knew he had found a home at Compass Financial Resources, LLC when he joined the company in the Fall of 2000, as his research and analysis skill set were a perfect fit.

Married to his wife, Wendy, since 2004, Mike loves to diet and exercise, as well as trekking to Mexico for vacations.

Taylor leads technology and information security at Compass Financial Resources, LLC, overseeing systems architecture, cybersecurity, and the secure management of client data and financial plans.

He also contributes directly to developing and structuring financial plans, supporting advisors in delivering tailored strategies for retirement, investing, and long-term financial goals.

Taylor holds Series 6, 63, and 65 registrations through LPL Financial, Life & Health insurance licenses, and the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) designation. He earned a Master of Science in Financial Planning from Kansas State University and a Political Science degree from Pittsburg State University.

Having lived and worked internationally, Taylor brings a broad perspective to financial planning and technology solutions.

Taylor is affiliated with the Olathe office.

Helen plays a key role in supporting both clients and the office team. Her responsibilities include planning and organizing client and office events, preparing materials for client meetings, ordering materials, assembling workshop packets, participating on the selection committee for the annual KS teacher of the year, and dealing with safety in the office. She manages incoming calls and supports daily office operations, helping ensure a smooth and professional client experience.

 Known for being organized and approachable, Helen helps create a welcoming and efficient environment for everyone. 

 When not at work, she enjoys entertaining/giving theme parties, being with her three kiddos and her dog, as well as playing games or cards with friends. In the warmer weather, gardening, canoeing, and just being outside are some of her favorite pastimes.

When clients call the offices of Compass Financial Resources, LLC, they are more often than not greeted by the familiar voice of Pete Modica. As an administrative assistant, Pete draws on his extensive communications background to assist clients and address questions regarding their retirement needs.

Pete entered the insurance and financial services industry in 1988 and joined the Compass Financial Resources team in 2009. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Administration and a Master’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. Before transitioning to the financial services field, Pete built a decades-long career in broadcasting, working in news and sports reporting for numerous Kansas City radio stations and regional radio networks, covering the city’s professional sports teams.

Pam is with the Compass Team in Olathe, where she is known for her strong customer service, exceptional communication, and outstanding organizational skills. With a keen attention to detail and a natural ability to support both clients and colleagues, Pam plays a key role in maintaining team productivity and creating a positive, efficient work environment.

Outside of her professional role, Pam treasures time with her family. She and her husband have been married for more than 35 years and feel blessed to live near their close-knit network of family and friends. Their son and daughter‑in‑law have given them two beloved granddaughters who bring immense joy to their lives. Pam enjoys the outdoors, especially gardening and walking local trails, where she finds peace and inspiration in the beauty of God’s creation.

Jacque Brouhard joined the Compass Financial Resources, LLC team in January 2025, bringing with her 20 years of experience in education across both elementary and high school settings. Raised in Gardner, Kansas, Jacque earned her degree in Elementary Education from Ottawa University.

Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor activities and traveling with her family. Jacque and her husband, Chad, have been married since 2005 and are proud parents to their daughter, Riyn. Jacque works part-time in the Olathe office, where she primarily supports Rob Lane and Ross Bauer as their administrative assistant.