Two regional CPA firms – Chadron-based GLR -Gardner, Loutzenhiser and Ryan, PC – and Rapid City-based Casey Peterson, LTD – are merging, effective on New Year’s Day.
GLR has locations in Chadron, Gordon, Mullen, and Torrington while Casey Peterson is in Rapid City and Faith, SD, and Gillette, Wyo. Both firms offer tax, accounting, audit and assurance, consulting, and wealth management services.
GLR partners Jim Gardner and Vince Ryan will become partners in Casey Peterson. Ryan says the name change is about the only thing different GLR clients will notice.
Gardner and Ryan were part of FALCO, the Panhandle’s largest CPA firm, until founder Fred Lockwood retired and closed the firm in 2015.
They joined the late Annie Loutzenhiser to form GLR the following year and Ryan says Loutzenhiser’s unexpected passing in July 2018 led eventually to the decision to merge with Casey Peterson.
Ryan says the merger helps ensure long-term success for both companies and that he and Gardner are excited about the possibilities and look forward to what the future holds.
Casey Peterson managing shareholder Mark Lyons says “‘Lead the Way’” is the driving force behind everything the firm does and will remain so after the merger
He says joining forces with GLR will give clients of both firms access to more resources and experts who can help them manage their tax, accounting, and financial needs.
Lyons and Ryan say the combined firm will remain committed to community involvement including donations, sponsorships, and volunteer opportunities.