Karen Markstrom May is an Investment Advisor Representative with more than three decades of experience in the financial services industry. She collaborates with Timothy Martin and Jake McNeil to help individuals and families develop personalized strategies that provide clarity and confidence in their financial decisions.
Karen specializes in retirement planning, life insurance, disability insurance, and investments. She has a focused expertise in supporting families with children or loved ones who have special needs. Her work is guided by the belief that financial advice should be accessible, transparent, and aligned with each client’s values and goals.
Karen is a graduate of Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Science. She also holds the Chartered Special Needs Consultant (ChSNC®) designation from the American College. Throughout the years, Karen has taken numerous courses with American College for continuing education.
Karen’s advising philosophy centers on simplifying complexity, equipping clients with meaningful knowledge, and fostering long-term partnerships built on trust. She helps her clients prepare for retirement as well as unexpected life events. Over the years, she has cultivated lasting relationships with clients, peers, and mentors – many of whom she continues to serve across generations.
Karen resides in Beverly Hills, Michigan, with her husband, Gary. Outside the office, she enjoys golfing, skiing, reading, traveling, and spending time with their two stepsons. Karen is a passionate advocate for causes related to her family’s experiences. She and her husband, Gary, are involved with organizations that serve individuals with disabilities and mobility challenges. She’s also actively involved in Team Suzy, which raises awareness for early-onset Alzheimer’s.
Professional Involvement & Community Engagement
• Team Suzy, Volunteer & Supporter
• Organizations serving individuals with disabilities and mobility challenges, Supporter