Meet Our Team
Troy Brockmeier, CFA®
Owner & Advisor
Why Oldfather Financial?
I joined Bill in 2015 after a 25-year career in investments, banking, and serving as a CFO. While being a Registered Investment Advisor was new to me, the approach at Oldfather Financial felt like how the business should be done—working for our clients instead of selling them investment products. There’s no better firm to do that.
In early 2026, I took ownership of a firm with more than 25 years of history serving our clients. Thanks to the firm’s strong reputation, brand recognition, and deep client loyalty, we chose to keep the name unchanged. We will continue offering the same high‑quality services our clients expect, while expanding and evolving to meet their future needs. Our commitment is to help clients grow their net worth through transparent, thoughtful investment and financial planning.
Best Advice: “It’s not how much money you make. It’s how much money you keep.”
This resonates with me because it aligns with our firm’s investment philosophy—staying proactive for our clients. We believe in using low-cost index funds and investing in the market, rather than trying to time it or make big bets. Returns will naturally follow the broader market, but the real advantage comes from what our clients keep. That’s why we focus on strategic tax planning, not just for today but for years down the road. In fact, we’re the only local firm that asks for our clients’ tax returns every year.
A Work Accomplishment I’m Proud Of
Early in my career as a bond trader at National Bank of Commerce in Lincoln, I took on the challenge of earning the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation—a rigorous three-year process that I often compare to a master’s in investments. Earning my CFA helped me move up to Senior Investment Officer, managing an $800 million bond portfolio before I turned 35. Today, I remain one of the only CFAs outside the Lincoln/Omaha area—aside from the Dean of the College of Business at UNK.
What I’m Most Proud Of
I met my wife, Marti, in an Economics class over 35 years ago, and since then, family has always been our priority. Whether it was planning summer vacations across the country or in Nebraska, coaching basketball, softball, and baseball, or leading a Boy Scout troop, I’ve loved being involved. Our kids have taken that foundation and run with it—John attended Yale, Charlie is finishing up at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (my alma mater), and Darin is a proud Lopes at Grand Canyon University. They’re fearless—both boys became Eagle Scouts, and my daughter took a month-long backpacking trip across Europe after her senior year.
Where You’ll Find Me When I’m Not Working
Monday and Friday mornings, you’ll find me at Kitt’s Coffee Shop catching up on reading (usually about work). On Tuesday and Thursday, I will be at UNK teaching a personal finance class to Loper students. Being empty-nesters, I’ll be on the golf course during the summer—Awarii Dunes or anywhere else I can get a tee time. Or, visiting my parents back in Eustis.
William Oldfather
Founder & Advisor
As a senior wealth advisor at Oldfather Financial Services, Bill works closely with high-net-worth families, business owners, retirees and those experiencing life-changing events to bring clarity, structure, and confidence to their financial lives.
His approach is grounded in thoughtful financial planning, disciplined investment management, and careful implementation, helping clients make informed decisions and navigate life’s complexities with greater peace of mind.
Bill and his team serve as long-term partners to their clients, providing comprehensive advice designed to align wealth with personal priorities and evolving goals. He is known for his steady guidance, practical perspective, and commitment to helping clients feel organized, informed, and supported through every stage of life.
Bill holds a B.S. in Finance from the University of Nebraska at Kearney and an MBA from the University of Denver.
Beyond work, Bill is active in his community and currently serves on the Advisory Committee for CHI Good Samaritan Hospital, the Kearney Public Library Foundation Board and the Board of the Archway. He enjoys traveling, classic and collector cars and spending time at the Lake.
He lives in Kearney Nebraska with his wife and they have one son.
Tristan Crook, CFP®, CSLP®
Advisor
tristan@oldfatherfinancial.com
What inspired you to become an advisor?
I’ve been in the industry since 2017, and from the start, I knew I wanted to do more than just help people with investments—I wanted to make a real impact on their lives. Financial planning can be overwhelming, whether you're a young professional juggling career growth and big decisions, or a retiree looking to make your savings last. I love helping clients gain clarity and confidence in their financial future, building long-term relationships, and tailoring strategies to their unique situations.
What areas of financial planning do you specialize in?
I specialize in working with two key groups:
- Young medical professionals—physicians, dentists, pharmacists, PAs, chiropractors, and others—who face complex financial decisions around student loans, rising income, investing, tax planning, and building wealth early in their careers.
- Retirees and pre-retirees, many of whom I’ve worked with throughout most of my career, helping them navigate income strategies, tax planning, healthcare costs, Social Security, and legacy planning as they transition into and through retirement.
In addition to these groups, I also serve high-earning professionals and families who want a long-term, relationship-based approach to financial planning. Whether it’s student loans, retirement planning, or tax-efficient investing, my goal is to help clients make informed decisions and feel in control of their financial future.
What led you to merge with Oldfather Financial Services?
Throughout my career, I worked at a few different firms trying to find the right fit—one that truly aligned with my values. Unfortunately, many placed too much emphasis on product sales rather than building genuine client relationships. Eventually, I launched my own firm to serve medical professionals the way I believed financial planning should be done. While that was a great experience, I ultimately merged with Oldfather Financial in 2024 because I saw an opportunity to serve more families while also benefiting from the wisdom and experience of a well-established team that shares my approach and values.
What do you enjoy outside of financial advising?
As a Kearney native and a graduate of both Kearney High and UNK, this community has always been home—I couldn’t think of a better place to serve and give back. My wife, Courtney, is a CPA, and we have a daughter, Palmer. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, watching Husker football and volleyball, following soccer—especially Arsenal—and the NFL. I also serve on the Kearney Soccer Club Board and look forward to continuing to be involved in the community.
Book an Intro Call with Tristan
Brandi Horacek
Advisor
I wear many hats…
My role at Oldfather Financial is multifaceted. As an Investment Advisor, I'm dedicated to guiding clients through their financial journeys, from initial consultations and personalized planning to ongoing support. Beyond client advising, I also contribute to the firm's operational efficiency, managing areas such as billing and compliance.
Starting at OFS
In August 2018, I joined Oldfather Financial as an Administrative Assistant, drawn to the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people's financial lives. Having a Bachelor’s Degree with an emphasis in Finance fueled this passion, leading to my role as an Investment Advisor in August 2021, where I now directly empower clients to reach their financial goals.
What do my co-workers think of me?
Based on my approach and interactions, I believe my coworkers would describe me as: Efficient, Knowledgeable, Analytical and Speedy (sometimes maybe too speedy)
Extracurricular Activities
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is important to me. My life outside Oldfather Financial is a mix of cozy and competitive! I love spending time with family and friends and my pup, Nelly. And I'm always up for a round of golf – whether it's a serious match or just a fun day on the green. I believe in making the most of my free time, and that usually involves laughter and good company.
Fun Fact
I have won money from Publisher’s Clearing House.
Michelle Garth
Director of Client Experience
michelle@oldfatherfinancial.com
What’s your favorite part about working for Oldfather Financial Services?
As Director of Client Experience, I truly enjoy working with our clients! Whether it’s answering inquiries, finding solutions, or ensuring account settings match clients intentions, I enjoy helping our clients in any way I can. My role at OFS is a great fit for me as I am a people person who enjoys helping others, solving problems, and I have a genuine passion for great customer service. Another aspect of my job I enjoy is working together with our experienced, knowledgeable, and caring team. Everyone here brings a different set of assets to the table, which compliments each other well and makes us a well-rounded, dynamic team. We learn from each other, grow from each other, and it is a pleasure to come to work every day.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I am the proud mom of a 5 year old. My son, Oliver or “Ollie”, is a very bright, creative, kind, inquisitive, imaginative and very fun kid. He is such a bright ray of sunshine in my life! Ollie is currently in Pre-K at Plambeck Early Childhood Center and in Fall he will make the official “big move” to Kindergarten at Kenwood Elementary. Outside of work, we spend much of our time playing at home, at local parks (when it’ nice outside!), going to the Kearney Area Children’s Museum, the Kearney Public Library, or attending First Lutheran Church where Ollie and I are both members. I currently serve on the Preschool Board at First Lutheran and Ollie enjoys attending Sunday School. We also have a 13 year old dog, Cooper, who’s greatest joys are playing ball and barking at other dogs! In addition, as a Kearney native we are fortunate to have so many family members who live close by and are blessed to spend so much time together. Otherwise, I love to travel! I enjoy exploring new places, trying new foods, and experiencing a variety of music, art, and culture.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
My first job after graduating from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Business Administration was working as an executive recruiter for my brother-in-law’s business in Omaha. He was a great mentor, very supportive, and wanted to help me succeed (much like our team at OFS!). He gave me the book “Eat That Frog,” by Brian Tracy which sort-of became a mantra of mine when dealing with difficult tasks. It encourages one to tackle hard projects by starting with the biggest, hardest, and most important task first. I apply this in many areas of my life, and helps me focus on getting things done instead of putting them off or worrying about them….just get it done!
Barb Farber
Client Experience Representative
I’m Here for You!
I'm a Client Experience Representative with a unique blend of professional expertise and personal passion. My 27-year career in middle management, backed by a Business Administration degree, has instilled in me a deep understanding of customer needs.
Life Outside OFS
When the workday's done, I transform into a multi-sporting dynamo! Softball? I'm there! Bowling? Let's roll! Fishing? Hook, line, and sinker! And don't even get me started on my husband's band – I'm basically their official hype-person! But the real MVP of my life? My family! We're a team of professional goofballs, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Coffee or Tea?
My bloodstream is roughly 80% coffee by morning – the rest is pure, unadulterated enthusiasm. And let's just say, my sleep schedule is more of a suggestion.
I Believe I Can Fly
If I had a superpower, I would love to be able to fly. It would grant me the ultimate freedom to visit my family and friends, unbound by distance.