“I didn’t know Ted as well as some, but did have the opportunity to work with him on a few projects last year. Ted let me lead and take ownership but was there every step of the way with questions, tips and encouragement. He just wanted everything to go well. Ted spent an immense amount of time supporting the chapter and those involved and we are all better off for it.”
-Neil Wysocki, EMC Insurance, Iowa CPCU Board
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“I am one of many that have known, worked and befriended Ted over the years. To be honest, I do not remember not knowing Ted. I met Ted early in my career and have considered him a friend ever since. I enjoyed taking classes with him, we were both members various insurance associations and we served on the Board of the Iowa Insurance Hall of Fame for over 20 years. Ted was a mentor, friend and task master. He will be missed but not forgotten.”
-Susan Roberts, FBL Financial Group, CPCU
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“Ted’s passion for all things insurance related is something I will truly miss. I’m blessed to have had the chance to work beside him, get to know his kind heart, and laugh at his humor.”
-Abby-Jaye Dawson, IMT Insurance, Iowa CPCU Board
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“Some of my time working with Ted was focused on new designees. I appreciated Ted’s passion for the acknowledgement of those who obtained their CPCU and the ultimate chase to obtaining all of the new CPCU designee photos to have in the Des Moines Register.”
-Craig Green, EMC Insurance, Iowa CPCU Board
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"If there were two things I could say Ted was passionate about, it would be young insurance professionals and the CPCU. Ted made a major impact on my career at an early age and if it wasn’t for him, I truly don’t believe I would be as driven and involved in the industry as I am today. I met Ted basically right out of college when I joined the Insurance Association of Greater Des Moines and I admired his persistency in investing in the community and the people around him. He always showed up to meetings and even if he didn’t have a lot to say, his presence was enough to portray his heartfelt commitment to others. When working with him as the Scholarship Chair for CPCU, he loved seeing college students apply and express interest and intrigue in becoming an insurance professional one day. It gave him genuine hope for the future of industry. Ted was knowledgeable, witty, strong willed, dedicated, and an overall amazing individual. I hope that his legacy will forever live on.”
-Megan Carpenter, Holmes Murphy, Iowa CPCU Board
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“Obtaining my CPCU designation and serving on the Iowa CPCU Society board has been a rewarding experience. This experience has no doubt improved me as an insurance professional. The biggest reward through this process is the opportunity to connect with many important and influential insurance people. Although so many individuals associated with the Iowa CPCU Society Chapter are extremely impressive, none of them compare to Ted Lussem. Ted was the most kind, caring, and generous man around. He was a consummate insurance professional and the work he did for our Iowa CPCU Society will be nearly impossible to replace. Through his actions, Ted taught us all about serving and dedication. Ted has been an inspiration to me and so many others. Ted will be eternally missed, but never forgotten.”
-Jeff Wilson, IMT Insurance, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“The insurance industry lost a "Giant", Theodore "Ted" Lussem, CPCU. A member of the Iowa Insurance Hall of Fame and so many other recognitions over his storied career. Our paths crossed when I was invited to attend the Iowa CPCU Chapter meeting as Society President-Elect. It is a tradition and Ted's role was to introduce me to the many carriers in Iowa.
My experience with "Ted's Taxi" was 2016. One thing about Ted, he was always prompt. He picked me up at the hotel 15 minutes early for day of 8 visits to local carriers (including a dinner that evening). The first thing he said to me was, "I hear you are a talker. When I say it is time to go, IT'S TIME TO GO!' He was true to his word. I had an amazing day and so impressed how many of the CEO's and Presidents of the carriers we called on deeply respected him. Ted was an "Insurance Giant" in Iowa.
The day ended after the dinner and he thanked me for the opportunity to introduce me to all the carriers. I told him it was one of the best days I have had to that point in my insurance career, because of him.
Ted will truly be missed by all he touched. Rest in Peace...”
-Mike Koscielny, Past President CPCU Society
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“What a Guy!!!
It was both a privilege and honor spending the day with Ted, when I was President –Elect of the CPCU Society. He was very diligent in making sure I was properly dressed, on time, and knew when we needed to “move on”. He was a pure joy to drive all over Iowa visiting CPCU Chapters and insurance companies that sponsored CPCU!
I remember him telling me, if I talked too long, he would cut me off like the guy from the year before. He actually pulled Troy Baldwin from a meeting, almost mid-sentence. I still chuckle.
He was a man of honor, dignity, and ethics. He was my “taxi” for a day, friend for life. May he rest in peace and hopefully he knows how much he was loved and admired!”
-Jill McCook, Past President CPCU Society
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“I was the CPCU Society president in 2014. When my name was announced at the 2011 Annual Meeting as the next VP, an Iowa Chapter member immediately approached me to get me on the schedule for their 2013 I-Day. I was amazed at how far in advance they planned their event. I was told it was because Ted told them to.
Fast forward to Fall 2013, when I met Ted for the first time. He arrived at the hotel with an itinerary for the next two days. This schedule was to the minute--precision planning at its finest! He ferried us around to all the major insurance employers in and near Des Moines, keeping us on time, including our meal stops. During those rides, Ted and I would chat about the industry, about Des Moines, and about the CPCU Society. I could hear the unmistakable passion in his voice for all three topics. I could feel the pride he had in his role of escorting the CPCU Society president and introducing me to CEO's and other industry executives. Everyone welcomed him with a smile. They were still smiling when he would tell them their time was up as we had more (important) people to see.
While I had many memorable experiences during my years as a CPCU Society officer, the two days in Des Moines with Ted are ones that shine the brightest. He was truly a Champion of CPCU Champions.”
-Cindy Baroway, Past President CPCU Society
“Ted’s support for the insurance industry, especially the CPCU Society, was so unique and refreshing. I recall first getting my CPCU and Ted being one of the first sharing the congratulations, genuinely interested in getting to know me and my role, and most importantly, he always chatted with a smile. He knew your name and always made it a point to talk with you if at same event. He will be missed!”
-Erin Wonsmos, IMT Insurance, CPCU
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“ A Legacy of Service
Ted Lussem was a remarkable man, the likes of which seldom pass through our lives. I first met Ted in 1995 when I earned my CPCU designation. He was so welcoming to each new CPCU of the Iowa Chapter. He made you feel special for your achievement and encouraged you to get involved in the Chapter. The success of the Iowa Chapter over the years was due in large part to Ted. He would deny that, but I firmly believe this was true. He was always encouraging and promoting the Iowa Chapter and its members.
I became an officer of the Chapter in 2002 and went through the chairs serving as President in 2006-2007. Ted was always at every event the Chapter had. I remember I-Day that year. I wanted to make sure I got there early to make sure everything was in order and to greet the attendees. I got there shortly after 6:00 am that morning… Ted was already there! Whenever our Chapter hosted national officers, “Teddy’s Taxi” was always ready to chauffer them around on company visits. I have had the opportunity to know several of the CPCU Society Presidents. They all looked forward to coming to Des Moines and spending time with this remarkable man. The one thing they all quickly learned when they got into Ted’s car was, that the schedule was not to be deviated from! Coming to Des Moines and spending time with Ted was always one of the highlights of their year.
Ted earned many accolades during his long and distinguished insurance career. Each of them were well deserved. Ted was a lifelong learner. He once told me that the CPCU and other designations had been his “college” education. He loved to see young people learn about insurance and the opportunities that our industry afforded. He was always encouraging of individuals to study and hone the skills of their profession. No matter how long it took you to finish your CPCU designation, Ted was always there encouraging you to the finish line.
Although Ted’s accomplishments in the insurance industry were monumental, those were not his only accomplishments. He believed in and lived service to his community. He served Broadlawns Medical Center and Iowa Lutheran Hospital as well as on the Pension Board for the Des Moines Police Department. He was tireless blood donator at the Iowa Blood Center. His numerous blood donations helped hundreds of individuals in the time of a health crisis.
Ted Lussem left a remarkable legacy. He made his mark in this world. His legacy will live on for each of us. I think Ted would say to each of us to think of him on occasion and always strive to do your best for your industry and your community. Life is about serving others.
God bless you Ted.”
-Wade Sheeler, Grinnell Mutual, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“Ted never wanted to be the front man (although he would if needed) but rather work in the background and support everyone else and help them be successful. Who on the CPCU Board hasn't had an early morning, and I mean early, phone call from Ted just checking in to see if something of other is being taken care of. It usually went like this...Good morning Jeff, this is your conscious calling. Did you remember to xxxxxxx?
Years ago when Ted was running his agency in East Village, an agency competitor had his agency severely damaged and was unable to transact business. Ted stepped forward and offered space, desks, copiers, phones to the agent until he could move back into his agency. He didn't make a big deal out of it. It was just the right thing to do. How many agencies, companies would be willing to do that today?
I'll miss Ted. I served with him on the CPCU board for 30 years and on the Iowa Insurance Hall of Fame board since its inception in 1994.”
-Jeff Jeffus, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“Ted had a passion for learning and a wealth of knowledge, and he lived his life with modesty, kindness and generosity. He was a mentor to many, including myself. Ted welcomed me when I completed my CPCU designation, as he welcomed new designees for decades. He encouraged me to be part of the Iowa CPCU chapter board, promising to assist me every step of the way as he had for others. In retrospect, it's difficult to imagine my 15-year tenure on the board in various capacities without Ted's wise words and perspective. He always had a positive attitude and a solution for every obstacle along the way. Accordingly, Ted's ongoing advisory role for the Iowa Chapter board was a primary reason for the chapter's success. Plus, Ted's wide-ranging influence in the insurance community went beyond CPCU members as he advocated for insurance education with top executives, supporting I-Day ads and meeting with Society leaders. Ted also played a major role in developing and promoting the Iowa Insurance Hall of Fame to recognize outstanding accomplishments in the Iowa Insurance industry. In addition to all of his insurance work, Ted devoted his life to community service with many civic organizations.
Ted lived the Golden Rule and had high ethical standards in accordance with the CPCU Conferment Oath to "live by the highest standards of professional conduct" and to "ascertain and understand the needs of others and place their interests above my own". The world needs more people like Ted, and I am grateful to have known him. His legacy will continue to be an inspiration for all of us.”
-Nancy Green, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“Looking around the Iowa Chapter today, it could be hard to believe that not so long ago, it looked quite different. When I became a CPCU in 1977 and joined the Chapter, Margaret Ball CPCU was the only other woman in the Chapter. There had been two others previously, and as our historian, Ted could rattle off their names in an instant, but right then, there were just the two of us. Ted immediately became my mentor and then my friend. He was a mentor to me not only in the chapter but in my career. Ted mentored many of us, and as those of us who have served as officers in the Chapter know, that including every board member of the chapter for years. He would be there coaching, encouraging, and quietly reminding us of things that needed done. He also encouraged (some might say “pushed”) many of us to continue studying new Insurance Institute of America courses, in his ever-going study groups. Ted represented what is best about our industry.
Indeed, our Chapter, the CPCU Society, our property casualty industry, and our community are better for Ted having been in them. As individuals, we will miss him, but never forget him.”
-Judy Brannon, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“Since meeting him over 30 years ago, I have seen Ted’s deep commitment to education, professionalism, and the insurance industry generally. I have seen him volunteer in many industry organizations and mentor many young people. As an educator, I particularly valued his focus on continuous learning. I remember years ago, when Norm Baglini (then President of the Institutes) visited Des Moines. Ted was on his “must see” list because he was such an exemplary CPCU. He will be missed. What a legacy and an example to all of us!”
-Terri Vaughan, Drake University, Ph.D., CPCU
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“We rarely come across somebody as impressive, smart and grounded as Ted. He was a wonderful mentor to me and without him, I know I would not be where I am today. He introduced himself at my CPCU Designation Ceremony at IDay in 1996 . I was honored that he challenged me to see what I could do by offering me many opportunities to work on the board, become a director and eventually enter into the esteemed Chapter Officer positions. It was a privilege to witness him captivate a room and teach young people how to make a difference in their community and their career. I was one of them, and I am forever grateful. Ted made friends where ever he went and will not be forgotten.“
-Barbara Sullivan, EMC Insurance, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“Ted Lussem was one of kind. He was a superb mentor to many and friend to all. Ted wasn’t the type of person to take no for an answer. He was well connected and did a superior job of fundraising annually for the CPCU New Designee advertisement placed in the DSM Register. Ted was passionate about the Iowa CPCU Society Chapter, and its preservation and promotion. Ted didn’t care much pomp and circumstance. He loved showing off his foot long business card with all of his designations behind his name, as well as his picture of his Pride and Joy! Ted was a kind and caring man who didn’t hesitate to inform you when it was time to go! Teddy’s taxi would not be late for an appointment!
We’ve lost a true Iowa insurance pioneer in Ted Lussem. The Iowa CPCU Society Chapter will continue to honor Ted’s life work by awarding the Ted Lussem Scholarship to students interested in pursuing an insurance career. Rest in peace Ted, and know that you are greatly missed.”
-Kim Smetzer, Innovative Captive Strategies, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“Ted was a significant part of my professional life as he mentored and motivated me to prioritize insurance education at EMC and beyond. He recruited me to be active in the Iowa Chapter of CPCU and challenged me to be a leader in insurance education for central Iowa. This rubbed off on EMC as EMC has become the property and casualty insurance company of the top 200 with the highest percentage of CPCU holders. Ted's dedication to insurance education was a pure focus.
His passion for it was noticed far and wide. Bill Berkley once asked me "Who is Ted Lussem?" Clearly Ted's impact reached the highest levels of the insurance community, but when he tackled the latest insurance designation, he motivated the newest insurance professionals.”
-Bruce Kelley, EMC Insurance, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“Ted Lussem was indeed “Mr. Insurance Education” and, for me, “Mr. Insurance Connection.” He provided the entre into my insurance career here in Iowa by passing on my paper resume (that’s what we did back in 2000) on to Susan Pickens, CPCU at Grinnell Mutual when she called him asking for a copy of the CPCU directory because she had a training position open for someone with the designation. As the story was told to me, he said “You don’t need the directory because I have your candidate’s resume and I will send it to send to you.”
He was tireless in promoting all insurance education, but particularly CPCU. He encouraged all of us to attend chapter meetings to improve our knowledge of the whole industry, not just our area of specialty.
At Grinnell Mutual, we anticipated Ted’s Taxi to bring the new CPCU national president over to meet us each November. How many CPCUs get that privilege each year? And it only happened because of Ted.
He is missed already.”
Jennie LeGates, CPCU
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“Before I met Ted, when the phone rang before 7 am it was uncertain whether it was good or bad news on the other end. After dozens (hundreds?) of 6:55 am calls from Ted, I grew to learn that some of the best things happen before everyone shows up to the office. I’ll miss his calls disguised as something important up front, but by the end, we agreed he just wanted to say hello. He will always be the model for the importance of maintaining close relationships in the insurance business.”
-Chris Murphy, Holmes Murphy, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“There have been many times in the past when I have found myself saying “If you don’t know Ted Lussem – you need to – there is NO ONE else quite like him!!!” Ted was so very inspirational. He modeled the way for insurance education, honesty, integrity, and was such a kind and down to earth guy while doing so. Always inquisitive and wanting to learn more – and always wanting to bring others along the way with him.
My favorite memory of Ted – there were several of us that had wanted to take a class and an instructor was not available. Problem solved by Ted! Our small group met weekly to tackle the course. We took turns handling the assignments but was led mostly by Ted – who always made the lessons fun and brought such an interesting perspective! Ted – I will miss you and will always hold very positive memories of you!!!!”
-Sheila Reese, EMC Insurance, CPCU
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“When I think of Ted, I always get a smile on my face. He had a friendly personality that magnetized others. Throughout his dedicated life to the insurance industry he remained organized and focused while serving others. He brought out the best in everyone fortunate enough to work with him. He had a unique ability to make those around him a little calmer. Like many others, I took several trips to Grinnell and Algona with Ted and helped him staff a booth at a Big I convention. He seemed to remember almost everyone and could quickly tell a little history on them. He made those around him strive to achieve more, and I truly believe he touched all of our hearts.”
-Russ Greenwood, EMC Insurance, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“Our introduction to Ted was when he taught a CPCU class at Drake in the early 70s. It has been our privilege to get to know him even better when he organized study groups for various Insurance courses that aided both our careers in Insurance. We also worked with Ted raising money for the Salisbury House and he was, by far, the most conscientious fundraiser. He loved all things historic. We are saddened beyond belief. Just as Ted always loved preservation of historical knowledge, let us always remember the many virtues he had and inspired in others.”
-Carole and Ron Hallenbeck, CPCU
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“I have many fond memories of Ted. He was instrumental in the success and growth of The Iowa Chapter. No matter what office I held, Ted would call to make sure I was "on task". It was always a challenge to complete the task before I got the call from Ted!”
-Greg Mauk, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“I got to know Ted Lussem when I became involved on the CPCU board. Ted attended every meeting, always provided valuable input and was always willing to provide support in any way he could. Ted was certainly the most tenured member of the CPCU board and he knew every fact and piece of history regarding the Iowa Chapter. As I contemplated going through the officer chairs, I knew it would be an easier four years with Ted's help and involvement. And it was! Ted did so many things for the Iowa Chapter and he was especially committed to I Day and the I Day newspaper ad and setting up visits for guest speakers at various companies in town. I feel honored to have known Ted Lussem and to have served on the CPCU board with him.”
-JoAnn Olson, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“Ted was truly a legend in our local insurance community and the Iowa CPCU Chapter. He was tireless in his pursuit of continuing education as well as his support of the CPCU Society and the Iowa Chapter where he was a Past Chapter President and member for many years. Ted was a CPCU Champion before this was an official title. Many Society Past Presidents will remember traveling in “Teddy’s Taxi” to company connections visits around the greater Des Moines area. Ted is also well known for having one of the largest collections of insurance memorabilia I have ever seen along with a customized business card of appropriate length to accommodate the 17 designations he obtained through The Institutes. He was instrumental for many years in organizing the I-Day speakers dinner, the New Designee congratulatory advertisement in the Des Moines Register, and of course the connections visits for which he was famous. You can read more about Ted here in his profile on the Iowa Insurance Hall of Fame website.
I will remember fondly the many times we spent together working booths at Drake University and the Big I, as well as attending Iowa Insurance Hall of Fame ceremonies, I-Day, and other Iowa Chapter events. Ted was an inspiration to me as I’m sure he was to many other CPCUs. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”
-Kevin Seward, FBL Financial Group, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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“You’ll know I’m retired when you read my obituary in the paper!” – Ted Lussem
“No more truthful words have been spoken and thankfully he didn’t “retire” earlier and he graciously continued mentoring so many of us throughout his long professional career. Here’s to an amazing life of service and dedication to his profession, and cheers to a life well lived.”
-Dan Crew, EMC Insurance, CPCU
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“I knew Ted for 30 years. He was a friend, a mentor, and a role model. I loved this guy, he was a blend of a big brother and second father to me. Ted was always on the move and accomplished so much every single day of his life. He squeezed two lifetimes into one. This would not have been possible without the love and support his received from Sherrie. Sherrie, thank you for helping make Ted the man that we knew and respected.
So much has already been said about his caring for others but here are some examples that I witnessed:
-A new CPCU in Ottumwa was disappointment by the lack of response from his employer upon completing his CPCU. Ted organized a luncheon with this person along with a few CPCUs in Ottumwa. I rode in Teddy’s Taxi to Ottumwa in a snowstorm – but Ted made sure that we recognized this person’s accomplishments. Ted went on to help him find a new job – a good job. Ted did this for many people – he was “LinkedIn” before there was an Internet.
-Ted was promoting diversity before diversity was a thing. For example, he worked hard to get diversity on the CPCU board, people with backgrounds in carriers or agencies, young or old, male or female. Ted was the only male member of the Insurance Association of Greater Des Moines and helped many in that group succeed in their careers.
-I had a serious health issue four years ago and spent over 100 days in the hospital. Ted would often call and visit. He always found time for his friends.
-Ted was humble about his knowledge. That is saying a lot, because he knew a lot. He was a great role model.
-I was on some of the same boards as Ted (CPCU, IIHOF, Insurance Licensing Committee). Over 30 years Ted I spent many, many hours with him. As I reflect on those times, I cannot recall a single instance of him denigrating or criticizing anyone. Never. Not once. Not Ted. That is a wonderful legacy!
I work for the Iowa FAIR Plan Association. For those of you not in the insurance business, the Plan is a market of last resort for property insurance created by the state of Iowa and supported by assessments on the insurance carriers. Ted was an honorary part of the Plan team and joined us on all special occasions and celebrations. We have dedicated our conference room to Ted, now called the Theodore “Ted” Lussem Conference Room. We will display his many accomplishments in there. This room is available for outside groups or to anyone that wants to see the display.
In conclusion, my faith demands that I accept that Ted is in a better place. He is no longer in pain and facing difficult health care decisions. But I will miss him as I know all of you will too, but we are all blessed to have known him.
Rest in peace my friend, and know you will be fondly remembered.”
-Bob Conroy (from his eulogy for Ted), Iowa Fair Plan Association, Past President Iowa CPCU Society
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-Tony Cañas, https://insnerds.com, CPCU
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