What matters most to you in life and why? This is a big question that Mike may ask to better understand the goals and dreams of his clients. Mike may ask questions that other financial advisors won't because his clients’ vision of the future is unique to them; he is willing to help pursue their goals and dreams. He is here to provide guidance to others who are ready to retire, saving for retirement, or investing inheritance money for future endeavors. Mike develops a personalized financial plan for everyone based on their goals and dreams. When people find the right advisor, life can be brilliant.

Personal

Mike grew up on a farm in West Branch, Michigan, working for his uncle’s dairy farm bailing hay, mucking stalls, and picking rocks out of the field. He also worked for his family’s side business cutting, stacking, and delivering wood. He learned early on the value of hard work and, during the years of college, that his interest in personal finance and helping and educating others was a strong passion of his. He wanted to work in the financial industry and help others plan for retirement.

He met his wife, Tammy, the summer of his sophomore year and have been married since 1994. He has four beautiful children: Collin, Christian, Caitlynn, and Camrynn. He enjoys coaching them along with other local youths in baseball, softball, football, and wrestling. Mike was vice president and co-founder of the Gull Lake Youth Wrestling Club (GLYWC), and president and co-founder of Gull Lake Storm/Thunderstorm Travel Baseball and Softball. Mike ran his first 5k in September 2015 and his first half-marathon for Borgess in May 2016. Some of Mike's hobbies include golfing, camping, hunting, and fishing. He has also trained his dog Chaz to bird hunt.

Mike is involved in many community outreach endeavors. He was president and is now a member of the Plainwell Rotarian Club, which is an organization that has the motto “Service Above Self,” conveying a strong humanitarian spirit among the fellowship. The Rotary Club of Plainwell has recently recognized Mike as their Rotary Hero. Mike is willing to help others, which includes calling them, running errands, and providing transportation if needed. He values experience and hands-on help, which greatly contribute to the club’s success.

Professional

William Michael Sanders is proud to have been recognized as a Business Experience advisor for 2021—a distinction based on annual production that places him among the top 52 percent of advisors affiliated with Commonwealth Financial Network.

Each year, Commonwealth, the firm we partner with to help us better serve you, recognizes Business Experience advisors by inviting them to an exclusive gathering of their peers, leading industry experts, and Commonwealth home office staff. Business Experience advisors benefit from an intensive learning and networking experience designed to help them hone their expertise, share best practices, and provide ever-higher levels of service, education, and leadership to their clients.