Our History

The History of Colton Groome Insurance Advisors

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Foundations: The Four Men Who Shaped My Career in Life Insurance

Over my 22-year career, I’ve had the benefit and blessing of learning from four extraordinary men—business leaders, mentors, and family. Their wisdom, values, and examples have shaped not only my professional path, but also the way I live and serve others.

Henry Colton founded our firm in 1950. He studied engineering at Yale, flew over 20 combat missions during WWII, and later graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill’s law school. When you combine the precision of an engineer, the discipline of an attorney, and the courage of the Greatest Generation, you have the foundation upon which Colton Groome was built. Henry was immensely successful as a lifetime agent with New England Financial and deeply respected in our community. Most impactful to me, he mentored my father George, teaching him the life insurance business and setting our family on this course.

My father, George Groome, joined the firm in 1974, right after graduating from UNC-Chapel Hill. I’ve always described Dad as a man ahead of his time—someone who could anticipate the future of business and technology and plan accordingly. He grew the business significantly and, recognizing the limitations of the captive agent model, made the bold move to go independent in 2003. This shift allowed us to align more fully with our clients’ best interests—and opened the door to the dynamic, independent model I was privileged to inherit. Dad taught me everything: how to be a good husband and father, how to write, communicate, and prepare for every client meeting. I couldn’t have asked for a better role model or teacher.

Brian Pusateri began his life insurance career in 1995, building a strong practice in Florida and South Carolina. We met in 2015 at a Valmark Financial Group conference and discovered we shared both clients and attorney relationships. When Brian’s health declined later that year, he began looking for someone to continue his work. Our paths continued to cross, and eventually, he entrusted his clients to us. Brian has taught me so much—often during long drives to Florida for client visits. His mentorship has been both professional and deeply personal. Though he no longer works in the industry, his heart for service lives on through Broken Door Ministries, where he continues to impact lives every day.

John Zimdars represents the third generation of his family’s insurance business in Madison, Wisconsin. Founded in 1946, John worked alongside his father for many years. He and my dad met in the late 1970s through New England Financial and became lifelong friends. John built a trusted and respected practice advising business owners, attorneys, accountants, and families. He and his wife Peggy have been close family friends for as long as I can remember. When John asked me to be his successor in 2021, I was honored—but unsure how we’d navigate the distance. My wife Anna was instrumental in helping us think it through, and her encouragement led me to accept the opportunity. Nearly four years later, I’m a better advisor and advocate because of John’s mentorship.

Legacy and Gratitude

Each of these men has left an indelible mark on my life and career. They modeled professionalism, courage, integrity, and generosity—and taught me how to serve others with purpose and conviction. I carry their lessons with me every day, and I am deeply grateful for their guidance and trust. This tribute is a small way of honoring their impact—and a reminder that none of us reach our goals alone.