Bob Wuerfel

President

I graduated from Hope College and have been working in the title industry since 1988. I spent the first 13 years working for large title agencies, and the past 20+ as President of Lighthouse Title Group, which has a network of 35+ Lighthouse Title and venture locations throughout Michigan and Eastern Wisconsin.
With extensive operations expertise and significant experience with several title agency mergers and joint ventures, I currently provide senior leadership to my title team and venture partners. This leadership has led Lighthouse Title to be honored by Entrepreneur Magazine as one of the 500 fastest growing firms in the country.


I have also been named one of Grand Rapids Business Journal’s “Top 40 Business Leaders Under 40”. Within the Michigan Land Title Association (MLTA), I have served a term as President, have been involved with several committees and have earned the Certified Land Title Professional (CLTP) designation. Additionally, I earned the MLTA’s Robert J. Jay award for dedication and service to the land title industry!

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with our family. My wife and I have been married 30+ years and three grown children, a son-in-law and an awesome dog! We spend many summer weekends at our cottage relaxing, pontooning, tubing, skiing, playing yard games or reading books on the porch or by an evening campfire. At church, I am on consistory, play in the bell choir and have co-chaired our building campaign. And I am an avid railfan for both the current train lines as well as researching historical lines that no longer exist. If you have a land title issue with a current or former railroad parcel, chances are I can assist. In fact, I have been a speaker for our Michigan Land Title Association on railroad properties.

Jeff Beyer

Vice President - Commercial

I started my title insurance career in 1987 after graduating from Hope College. Initially starting as a closer, I quickly moved into sales and marketing where I spent the better part of 20 years. That has also included management responsibilities for branch offices as well as area manager responsibilities. With an extensive knowledge of closings, underwriter guidelines and several years in the title insurance business, I currently manage the Commercial Closing Unit and the Southwest Region of Lighthouse Title Inc. As an avid outdoorsman, I enjoy fly fishing, hunting and traveling.

Teresa Bortolini

Regional Vice President - Eastern Wisconsin/Upper Peninsula

My journey with Lighthouse began in October 2016. I had previously owned Title Trends Inc. for 19 years and thought with the continuing change in market, demands of the industry that when approached by Lighthouse to consider buying me out it was the right move for my team and myself. I’m a Regional Vice President for the State of Wisconsin. I have always been drawn to the real estate market and felt this connection to the title industry was a great fit for me. I get to work with realtors, builders, lenders, sellers & buyers on one of the most important purchases in their lives - their homes.

I went to college at UW-Milwaukee with a basketball scholarship to play for the Panthers. I graduated with degrees in marketing and real estate & urban development. I’m married and a mom of 3 great kids, my son Tanor earned a scholarship to play football for the UW-Badgers #63, so my fall is following him on Saturdays for game days. My daughter Toni is attending Carroll University for Physical Therapy, and my son Blake is in 8th grade.

Morgan Sennertt

Marketing Manager

I started my career with Lighthouse Title Group shortly after graduating from CMU. After our family Realtor heard that Lighthouse had a potential spot available, she referred me to Bob Wuerfel! After 5 minutes of meeting him, I knew this was the company for me. I was hired into a receptionist position while also assisting with the company’s social media which has since grown into my role. I get to assist all 35 of our wonderful locations with their marketing and advertising needs. 

These being anything from creating magazine ads, flyers, billboards, office remodels, to planning corporate events and supporting our local communities. I have truly enjoyed my last 2 years with Lighthouse and look forward to many more years to come!

Erica Boersma

Policy Department Manager

I started working for Lighthouse Title Group during my last semester of college. I graduated from GVSU with a degree in Occupational Safety & Health but chose to stay with Lighthouse. It has been a pleasure growing my career alongside a company that continuously accelerates and I look forward to the years to come.

Darcy Welton

Regional Vice President - West Michigan

I have worked in the title industry for 28+ years, I was hired by the Title Office in 1993 to work co-op straight out of high school. What they say about title is true, “once you get in its hard to get out.” I have worked for various title companies throughout my title career and transitioned my way up from customer service to management. I have spent most of my time in the escrow department and enjoy settlement and helping other offices with questions or training needs. 

I have been with Lighthouse now for almost 11 years and have really enjoyed my time. My personal goals in life were to raise a family and have a meaningful career, my kids are now 13, 15 and 17 so I am once again finding time for myself. I recently took up golf and am enjoying my time of on the golf course. My future goals would be to continue to be an ambassador for Lighthouse and continue to help Lighthouse grow.

Jennifer Folkert

Asst. RVP – Lakeshore Region

I started my title insurance career in 1993 after graduating from Ferris State University. I love everything about the closing process. It’s very rewarding to work with clients and see their dreams come true with purchasing a home. I work with a great group of people where we strive to make every closing a great experience.

I’m married and have three wonderful children. In my spare time I enjoy tennis, golf, reading and church activities. Spending time with my family is my favorite thing to do!

Jan Gaskill

Executive VP

I graduated from Ferris State University’s Paralegal Program. While in school, I enjoyed classes on real estate law and learning to draw out legal descriptions. When I had the opportunity to join a title company upon graduation, I jumped at the chance. 32 years later I am still enjoying real estate law and drawing out legal descriptions. I married my college sweetheart and together we have raised 4 wonderful children. We enjoy being involved in school activities and traveling around Michigan especially to Mackinac Island and the Great UP.

Matt Schopp

Human Resources Manager

My Christian faith fuels my heart for people and is what drew me into Human Resources. I enjoy that I can ease colleagues' worries by handling items like payroll and benefits, which I know truly impact their daily lives. Outside of the office, I am passionate about teaching my two sons the rules of football, serving alongside my wife and church family, and growing deeper relationships with our neighbors.

Sandy Vespoor

Vice President

I am the Director of Administration for Lighthouse Title Group. I have been a part of the Lighthouse family for the past 8 years holding various positions from Executive Assistant and HR Manager. The transition to Director of Administration is a natural fit as it utilizes my skillset, allowing me to work with both employees and customers.

I received my HR Degree from Baker University and has recently completed the Title 101 Training with ALTA.

When not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, watching my son play baseball and most of all being a grandma to my grandson.

Jennifer Thomas

Financial Controller

I’ve been with Lighthouse Title Group for 18 years. When I started, there were six locations to account for and now, we have 20 Lighthouse Title locations along with 15 affiliates to manage. It has been a great and at times, challenging journey to be on these past 18 years!

Graduated from Hope College with a bachelor’s degree in business accounting. My first job was with First Michigan Bank (FMB) as a bookkeeper in the residential loan department and after a few years, moved into corporate accounting. Then I took a break from the working world to stay at home and raise 3 wonderful kids for 10 years. Once my youngest was in kindergarten, I started back to part-time work for a small landscape business for about 4 years. My husband, Bill, and I knew Bob Wuerfel and his wife, Shayne through the church we both attended at the time. Through this relationship, Bob mentioned a new opening for an accountant for Lighthouse Title Inc. and I’ve been here since!

I love working with numbers, graphs and constantly look for ways to make our work processes more efficient so relevant information is shared with management in a timely manner.

Kevin Lounds

Chief Title Officer

My daily drive is to follow my Father’s Golden Rule— “If you don’t have time to do it right the first time, how can you expect to have time to do it over”.  July 20, 2015, was the resurrection of my passion for the title industry — my first day with Lighthouse Title. The 7 years prior to that I had a job in the title industry, starting then I resumed my CAREER in the title industry. My goal is to teach with every interaction every day externally with customers and internally with employees. My greatest reward received currently is being treated as a peer by my “title hero’s”, those who trained me and who now ask for my opinion and feedback.

Chris Boggs

I.T. CSR & Support

Although I haven’t been with Lighthouse long, just starting last October, it has been my best work experience so far. I enjoy the atmosphere of the offices as well as the work itself. Everybody in the company is always there to help one another whenever a problem arises. Lighthouse is really a great place to work!

Dawn LaFleur

Regional Vice President - Northwest

I strive to be the best I can be. I try to go above and beyond to help others achieve their goals.

Having worked in the industry for over 20 years (Title, Lending and Real Estate), I have had the opportunity to help people achieve home ownership in various capacities. My major career accomplishment has been my promotion to Regional Vice President of the Lighthouse Title’s Northwest offices.

My goal for a rewarding career begins with my team, clients and community, without, I couldn’t have been successful.

Dana O'Dell

Regional Vice President - Northeast

I came to Lighthouse with 25 years of experience in the title industry. My “can do” attitude is encouraging to know our customers will continue to receive the same great customer service we strive for.

Becoming the Northeast Regional Vice President for Lighthouse Title has been an accomplishment and great blessing in my life. A position which allows me to share my knowledge, encourage and support my team.

I enjoy traveling and one day hope to go to China to volunteer at the Giant Panda Center.

Catherine Cox

Settlement/Compliance

I have been with Lighthouse Title for over 15 years in the Grand Haven office. I have seen the addition of a lot of wonderful offices and staff members added to our Lighthouse Team since joining.

My time away from the office is spent enjoying the wonderful area we live in. Since I live close to Spring Lake, I love to walk down to the lake and enjoy the quiet in the evenings.

I also enjoy spending time with my dog and working in the yard.

Christina Saenz

AVP of Human Resources

I am the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources for Lighthouse Title Group and have been a part of the team for over 6 years. I began a degree in Psychology and quickly learned that while it wasn’t necessarily the right fit for me to become a full-time Psychologist, a similar path would be a better choice. As a focused leader, I am passionate about empowering others through different experiences while developing opportunities for growth inside our organization. I find great rewards in coaching others, especially assisting them in working through a challenge and watching them come out on top in the end. We can all do what we put our minds to!

When I am not at work I enjoy spending time with my son, Benjamin. He keeps me busy. I am very focused on my health and fitness (but I have become a bit of a foody since moving to Grand Rapids). My boyfriend, Chris, and I have recently taken on more interest in traveling as much as we can (especially anywhere warm).

I am grateful to be beside a wonderful company and can’t wait to see what the future holds!

James Veldt

Director of IT

I joined Lighthouse Title Group in the spring of 2020 holding degrees in computer programming and computer information systems. I have since continued to employ my expertise in our best practices and security, upholding our mission. Prior to Lighthouse I opened dozens of new schools and managed IT Operations for existing schools across the country, from Los Angeles to Boston and Chicago to Houston for a private school group.  I joined the workforce when I was 13 years old which helped me develop a strong work ethic at a young age, along with a passion for learning new skills and expertise. Throughout my journey, I have become accustomed to problem solving and built a habit of striving for perfection through continuous improvement.

In my free time, I enjoy traveling and exploring new destinations, developing new hobbies and interests, and spending time with my family.

Alex Wuerfel

Director of Operations

I joined the Lighthouse Accounting Team in July 2020 after graduating from Central Michigan University with a B.S. Degree in Actuarial Science. I am grateful to work in an industry vital to the economy and for the welcoming environment that gave me structure and stability during such uncertain times, especially as a college grad entering a world in a pandemic.
With the growth at Lighthouse Title, the need to analyze market, operational and financial data aligned with my degree skillset. I work with our leadership team, analyzing regional and local data to gain insight and drive business and operational planning. I look forward to continuing my professional development, furthering my Title knowledge, and helping sustain the growth of Lighthouse Title Group.


When I am not working, you can find me on the golf course or at a pool. I am a golf enthusiast and an Assistant Coach for the West Ottawa Water Polo program. I also enjoy downhill skiing and spending time outdoors. Above all, I am an avid fan of Detroit professional sports teams (no matter how long the rebuilds are)!

Crystal Bowyer

Assist. Vice President - Production

I have been with Lighthouse Title since November 2001. I have grown within our Company from Examiner, to an Admin role. I currently wear a dual hat for the company, Agency Manager for one of our Joint Ventures as well as our AVP of Production for Lighthouse Title Group. I grew up in the Caledonia, Kentwood area. Not long after High School I started my career in the Title Industry, after 5 years with them I started with Lighthouse and have worked my way up. I live in Wyoming, MI and am married with 1 child still left at home who recently graduated. My husband and I enjoy camping, hunting, and fishing together.”

Renee' Rycenga

Vice President of Compliance

I am the Vice President of the Settlement Area for Lighthouse Title Group. I have over 20 years experience in the title industry and have been with Lighthouse since the beginning. I have extensive knowledge of the title closing procedures in all areas and have become proficient in keeping up with the constant changes with the Closing Disclosure, and training throughout the state. Prior to getting into the title industry, I worked for a large bank in many capacities, including management, for over 15 years.

I am a resident of Grand Haven, married, proud mother to 3 children and blessed grandmother to 5 grandchildren.

Seth DeWitt

Accounting Associate

I joined the Lighthouse Title team in January 2022, following an internship the summer prior. I studied accounting at Hope College and my role at Lighthouse Title Group is my first position after graduation. I’m looking forward to making many memories during my future with the company.
My favorite pastime is attending concerts and I’m a musician myself, having played instruments since I learned how to read. My time at home is dominated by the constant attention a rescue Husky requires. I am constantly grateful for the opportunities that have been presented to me, and my involvement with Lighthouse Title is one of the many aspects of my life where I find myself blessed.

Mary Strand

Assist. Vice President – Southwest Michigan

I have worked for a title company since April 15, 1994. Started at The Title office, that company became Chicago Title and now I’m Assistant Vice President for Southwest Michigan at Van Buren County Title. I’m a very outgoing person so my job allows me to meet a lot of new people while overlooking multi- offices and helping my employees be the best at their job . Very challenging and awarding. I do believe in work hard and play hard so outside of work; I love spending time with my 3 grown children and grandchildren. I really enjoy sports especially when I attend a Chicago Cubs or Bears game. I love to travel outside this country, experience new places.
I’m blessed with my life. I’m very fortunate to work for a great company who cares about their employees, live in a small town on Lake Michigan and have amazing family and friends.

Louie the Lightkeeper

Virtual Closing Assistant

Ahoy! I am Louie the Lightkeeper. I had been a lighthouse keeper for 40 years but recently decided to retire. I am still searching, just no longer for boats and vessels! You see, I now help Lighthouse Title Group and their customers search for answers and protect them from the rocky “title” waves. I am known for finding things quickly and accurately. Moving lighthouse to lighthouse could be a shipwreck without experienced title professionals; however, with all the changing waves and tides that the markets may bring, I know one thing is certain: Lighthouse Title is where your Title Insurance needs can rest ashore!

You may be wondering 'how can Louie help me'? Well... you can text me 24/7 with any questions or updates on an order and even closing cost estimates. My specialties are: on-demand file access, file status, and updates, document sharing, creating orders along with general questions.

Sue Hinojosa

I started in the real estate industry in 1998 by getting my license and working as a licensed assistant to a local Realtor. In 2001, I was introduced to the title world and have been here ever since. I love what I do! I enjoy the unique challenges that each day brings and the educational piece that comes with those challenges. Our industry is always changing, and there is always something new to learn. 

I live in Hudsonville with my 14-year-old son who keeps me on my toes. I love college sports, especially The Michigan State Spartans! Love the beach and travel baseball keeps us busy most of the year.

Jane Rott

My first job after high school was with Chicago Title Insurance Company in 1978 in Milwaukee, WI, one of the first mentors in my career recommended me for an entry level position.

I have stayed in the title field moving to Green Bay originally in 1985, after a few life changes I settled back in the Green Bay area in 2006. Green Bay Title, which had been in business in the Green Bay area for over 80 years was purchased by Lighthouse Title in 2016. By the time started with Lighthouse Title I had worked my way up to lead title searcher/examiner for the Green Bay market and with the support of many new positive and encouraging mentors with Lighthouse Title I have been able to achieve my new position as AVP – Production, Wisconsin.

My husband and I enjoy spending time with our blended family and amazing grandchildren, and travel with trips to New York, Las Vegas, New Orleans, South Carolina, Jamaica and most recently we shared a once in a lifetime two-week experience in Ireland.

I look forward to working with the Wisconsin offices to help Lighthouse Title to continue to grow and attain an even higher level of success.