About Us
A History of Innovation and Fiduciary Commitment
LaSalle’s advisory business didn’t emerge overnight—it was built on innovation, technology, and a commitment to client-first service. In the early 1980s, the rise of personal computers allowed small firms to manage large data files and integrate investment account reporting. Around the same time, discount brokerage firms like Charles Schwab began offering independent custodial services, opening the door for smaller advisory firms to enter the industry.
LaSalle stepped into that moment in 1984, becoming one of the first firms in Wisconsin to serve smaller accounts as fiduciary investment managers. Partnering with Schwab for custodial and execution services, LaSalle developed its own reporting systems to meet client needs. Schwab later introduced Advisor Billing, a system that allows independent advisors to bill fees directly through Schwab’s platform—provided performance reporting is used. This marked a shift from commission-based transactions to fee-based fiduciary service, aligning with SEC standards that prioritize client interests.
LaSalle helped pioneer this model, embracing tools like performance reporting, secure data flows, and a service-based fee structure. Over the decades, we’ve grown alongside the evolution of IRAs, 401(k)s, and the broader democratization of investing.
Today, as global shifts reshape trade, technology, and finance, we continue to ask the same question that has guided us from the beginning:
What’s next for our clients?
It’s in seeking that answer—and in quietly serving the day-to-day needs of our clients—that LaSalle has endured. And it’s how we’ll continue to serve, with independence, care, and pride.
John Fitzgerald
Principal & Financial Advisor Representative
John Fitzgerald launched LaSalle in 1984 with a bold vision: to transform financial advising from transactional brokerage to true fiduciary service. At a time when independence in the industry was rare, John built LaSalle as a client-first firm—unbound by commissions, driven by integrity.
LaSalle quickly became a pioneer, partnering with Schwab in its formative years to help shape the advisor platform that would redefine the industry. That partnership, rooted in innovation and trust, continues to thrive more than 40 years later.
John’s leadership is grounded in service and collaboration. His partnership with John Maresh brought together two values-driven professionals whose shared commitment to clients became the cornerstone of LaSalle’s reputation. Together, they built a firm known for stability, transparency, and enduring relationships.
Beyond LaSalle, John’s impact spans continents. He’s engaged in business consulting and international initiatives in Ukraine and Costa Rica, always guided by the same principles that shaped LaSalle: thoughtful strategy, long-term vision, and unwavering client care.
Today, LaSalle remains a reflection of John’s founding philosophy—where consistency meets innovation, and every client is treated like family.
John Maresh
Principal & Financial Advisor Representative
John began his career in the financial services industry as an investment broker, providing financial counsel to a dedicated group of clients. He then briefly embarked on a successful stretch in real estate development and management, gaining valuable experience in asset growth and strategic planning.
Eventually, John returned to the financial services industry, bringing both experience and perspective back to LaSalle—where client service and investment management come together. His steady presence has been central to the firm’s success, ensuring that the daily needs of clients.
For more than 30 years, John has guided the LaSalle team in managing portfolios with discipline and foresight. His focus extends beyond investments to include tax planning, asset allocation, and the life changes that shape financial decisions. This thoughtful balance of protection and adaptability has helped generations of clients navigate not only the markets, but also the ongoing shifts in their lives with confidence.
Susan Jakoblich
Financial Advisor Representative
Susan Jakoblich has been an integral part of the LaSalle Investment Advisors team since 2016, known for her unwavering commitment to client service and financial stewardship. Over the years, she has become a trusted and familiar presence to many clients, recognized for her attentiveness, professionalism, and genuine care in helping individuals pursue their financial goals.
Now serving as a fully licensed Investment Advisory Representative, Susan holds the FINRA Series 65 securities designation. This license enables her to provide tailored investment advice and execute securities transactions on behalf of clients. She also contributes to LaSalle’s broader strategic direction as a member of the Investment Advisory Committee, staying actively engaged in market developments and portfolio strategy.
In her current role, Susan blends technical expertise with a client-first mindset, guiding individuals and families through complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Whether assisting with retirement planning, portfolio allocation, or long-term investment strategies, her focus remains on delivering thoughtful guidance and building lasting relationships rooted in trust and transparency.
William Theis
Financial Advisor
William Theis is an Investment Advisory Representative at LaSalle, holding Series 6, 63, 65, and 26 securities licenses. He is also licensed in Life, Health, and Variable/Fixed Life Insurance through B & B Investments & Insurance, equipping him to offer a comprehensive range of financial solutions.
William’s journey into finance began in the trades, where he worked as a sheet metal and copper fabricator. There, he honed skills in job cost estimating and union negotiations—experiences that sparked his passion for numbers and strategic planning. Since officially entering the financial services industry in 2003, William has built a reputation for thoughtful, client-centered advising.
Outside of his professional role, William serves as the Executive Director of Rockets Baseball Academy, a travel baseball organization founded in 2008. He is married with five children and remains a devoted college baseball fan, proudly supporting his four sons who have played at the collegiate level.
William’s blend of real-world experience, financial expertise, and community leadership makes him a trusted advisor and a valued member of the LaSalle team.
James Fitzgerald
Financial Advisor Representative
James Fitzgerald is an Investment Advisory Representative and a member of the firm’s Investment Advisory Committee. Since joining LaSalle in 2021, he has focused on helping clients pursue their financial goals through tailored investment strategies. Holding a Series 65 securities license, he is authorized to provide investment advice and execute securities trades, bringing both discipline and a forward-looking approach to client portfolios.
As the eldest son of LaSalle’s founding principal, John Fitzgerald, James carries forward the firm’s legacy of trusted financial guidance while helping to shape its future.
James’s background extends beyond traditional finance. He spent two years in Costa Rica, contributing to the development of resort projects and gaining firsthand experience in international business and investment. From an early age, he was closely involved in stock management, building a strong foundation in market analysis and portfolio strategy.
Today, he oversees LaSalle’s advanced computer reporting systems, ensuring clients receive clear, timely, and accurate performance reporting. His blend of global perspective, technical skill, and family-rooted dedication makes him an integral part of LaSalle’s continued growth and commitment to client service.
Camilla Deszcz
Office Administrator
As the first point of contact for many clients, Camilla Deszcz plays a vital role in ensuring LaSalle’s daily operations run smoothly. Whether she’s managing reception, organizing client files, coordinating correspondence, or assisting with account activity, Camilla brings a warm, efficient, and solutions-oriented approach to every interaction. Her commitment ensures that every client is met with professionalism and care from the very first call or visit. And if she doesn’t have the answer, she’ll make sure you’re quickly connected with someone who does.
In addition to her client-facing responsibilities, Camilla oversees LaSalle’s integrated CRMs and Website Vault systems—critical tools that require both technical expertise and meticulous attention to detail. Her ability to combine precision with a personable touch helps clients navigate these systems with confidence and ease.
Camilla’s unique blend of technical skill, organizational strength, and approachable demeanor makes her an indispensable part of the LaSalle team—strengthening the connection between clients and advisors and ensuring a seamless, dependable service experience.
Tim Holstad
Office Administrator – Accounting & Tax Services
With over 20 years of experience in accounting and bookkeeping—and 17 years dedicated to tax preparation—Tim Holstad brings deep expertise and steady precision to LaSalle’s client services. His background includes drafting IRS correspondence and guiding clients through complex financial matters with clarity and care. Since joining the firm, Tim has played a key role in expanding in-house tax preparation services, offering clients added convenience while continuing to collaborate closely with trusted CPA partners for specialized needs.
Tim’s contributions go beyond tax support. Working alongside James Fitzgerald, he develops and operates evaluative tools that analyze the firm’s ETF portfolios. These tools break down each ETF’s underlying holdings and compare them against LaSalle’s Value Line–driven fundamental approach. By applying rigorous analysis—even to broadly diversified funds—Tim helps ensure that every investment aligns with the firm’s long-term standards.
His combination of technical expertise, analytical discipline, and client-focused service reflects LaSalle’s commitment to thoughtful, thorough financial management.