Great Lakes Insurance Services Group
The history of Great Lakes Insurance weaves together a rich tapestry of people, dates, and businesses. Join us for a quick journey through the key moments that have shaped Great Lakes Insurance over 56 years, beginning in the spring of 1969.
Our story starts with a pioneer—Ted C. Parker. Ted began his insurance career with Allstate in Pittsburgh, PA, before branching out to establish his own agency, Ted C. Parker Insurance. At that time, Erie Insurance was his sole carrier.
Fast forward to 1988, when Pete Zaphiris, then a car salesman and engineer, met Ted while working on a deal. Recognizing Pete’s talent and potential, Ted invited him to enter the insurance business.
In 1992, Ted and Pete solidified their bond—both professional and personal—by forming Parker Insurance Management.
In 1995, when Erie Insurance expanded into North Carolina, Pete and Ted adopted the name, Great Lakes Insurance Associates. A few years later, in January of 1999, Pete became the sole proprietor of the agency, continuing to build upon the solid foundation he and Ted had laid.
Great Lakes Insurance Associates then merged with several agencies over the following years to expand our carrier options and better meet our clients’ needs, including:
- Al Kostrubanic Insurance Agency
- Acquired: 2003
- The Deuink Agency in Clymer, NY
- Acquired: May 2003
- The D.R. Johnson Agency in Hamburg, NY
- Acquired: July 2007
- The Gray Agency in Frewsburg, NY
- Acquired: December 2008
In 2010, Great Lakes Insurance Associates rebranded as Great Lakes Insurance Services Group, LLC, transitioning from a sole proprietorship to a limited liability company. Following this transition, the company continued its steady growth, expanding its reach through the acquisition of several additional agencies, including:
- East Lake Insurance Agency
- Acquired: 2011
- The Nesmith Insurance Agency in Warren, PA
- Acquired: 2012
- The Gary Brown Agency in Randolph and Salamanca, NY
- Acquired: December 2012
- The Linda Phillips Insurance Agency in Youngsville, PA
- Acquired: July 2013
- The Burke & Byrne & Associates, Inc. in West Seneca, NY
- Acquired: May 2016
- The Fornes Agency in Springville, NY
- Acquired: November 2017
- James Cornwell Agency in West Seneca, NY
- Acquired: May 2018
- Stephen M. Hawley Agency & Associates, LLC in Batavia, NY
- Acquired: March 2020
Fast forward to today, our headquarters is now located at 1128 State Street, Erie, PA 16501. Prior to this, we operated at 3205 Peach Street for 30+ years, with a second location at 2404 East Lake Road. The East Lake Road location has since closed with the opening of our new headquarters on September 25, 2023. Also, speaking of 1128 State Street, this building is a true historical gem in downtown Erie. We are fortunate to call it our ‘home’ and are inspired by the great legacy it holds, hoping to follow in the footsteps of those who came before us.
We currently serve over 20,000 clients and are licensed to do business in 45 states, plus D.C. With 12 locations across Pennsylvania and New York, we represent over 100 carriers with nearly 70 licensed agents. Great Lakes Insurance is one of the Top 5 agencies representing Erie Insurance. Our motto: Our Specialty. Your Peace of Mind. As our mission is to provide you with the best possible coverage at the lowest possible price.
Despite our growth, we remain committed to giving back to our communities—particularly in areas where we have deep roots and strong connections. It’s truly special to be able to make a positive impact where we can. Great Lakes Insurance is simply more than just an insurance agency which we take GREAT pride in.
Check out the logo we used for years—now see how it’s evolved into our current look!
