The original foundation and principles that created Paso Robles Insurance Agency reflect INSURICA’S current corporate philosophy of conducting business with integrity, pride, a positive attitude and caring for the community.
The long history of serving the insurance needs of Paso Robles and the surrounding area began in 1939 when Giff Sobey created Giff Sobey Insurance where Pacific Premier Bank stands today. In 1950, Sobey partnered with P.D. Fowler and established Paso Robles Insurance Agency. In 1964 Ben Holsted joined the agency and he became a partner in 1966. In 1973, the agency moved to its current location at the corner of 12th and Vine Streets into what was originally built in 1890 as a carriage house for the Paso Robles Hotel. The building was moved to this location in 1940 after a fire destroyed the hotel.
With plans for expansion, Giff and Ben collaborated with Mike Ronan in 1980 and together operated three agencies on the Central Coast. In 2003, while planning for retirement, Ben and Mike sold the agency to Walter Mortensen Insurance of Bakersfield. Mike retired while Ben continued to manage the agency that he’d built over the years until his retirement after 50 years of service.
The current staff has 113 years of combined insurance experience including Karen Rossier at 47; Terry Perkins at 26; Heather Bordan at 17; Carolyn Ruth at 17 and Dave Lundy at 6 years. In 2011, Walter Mortensen Insurance was purchased by Oklahoma-based INSURICA Insurance Management Network. INSURICA is among the 50 largest insurance brokers and the 23rd largest privately held independent insurance agency in the United States. INSURICA employs more than 570 colleagues in 30 offices in 6 states. The company is focused on giving the best assets and inspiration to experienced partners, combined with the resources of Assurex Global. Being part of INSURICA gives Paso Robles Insurance Agency the comprehensive personal commercial products and services needed by individuals and large businesses that are typically available through metropolitan brokers.
In their 80th year, the local staff of Paso Robles Insurance and the parent company INSURICA thanks the residents and business community that have contributed to their success. Through the years, many clients are now considered friends; many of whom span generations. That in itself is a testimonial to the legacy of 80 years, the pledge of service and proud accomplishments carried out by everyone at Paso Robles Insurance Agency.
