Central ND News

Stroup Insurance, Inc. has announced the sale of its insurance business to Steffes Agency, a family-owned independent insurance agency based in Bismarck. The decision follows careful consideration by Stroup Insurance leadership.

Steffes Agency has operated for more than 35 years and offers a range of insurance products, including home, auto, business, farm, liability, bonds, life, and health insurance. The company is managed by brothers-in-law Duane Steffes and Dean Mastel.

As part of the transition, Ruby Hintz and Mark Zuern from Stroup Insurance will join Steffes Agency and continue to serve customers. They will remain at the current location in the Stroup Insurance building on the north side of Union State Bank’s Hazen office.

Christie Huber Obenauer reflected on the history of Stroup Insurance: "My Grandpa George Stroup started Stroup Insurance, Inc. back in 1969, when there was a recognition that insurance services were needed in our community. Over the years, our insurance agency has grown and evolved, reflecting the change and growth in our communities and in the banking and insurance industries."

Obenauer also addressed reasons for the sale: "As the pace of change quickens and the insurance industry grows increasingly complex, we knew it was time for us to look at opportunities to gain efficiencies and economies of scale to continue to serve our customers and our community in the way we always have – in relationship, and with the goal to exceed expectations. Joining forces with Steffes does exactly that for us, and we are excited about the opportunity it presents."

Customers are assured that their current policies will remain unchanged. Obenauer added: "As noted above, the faces you know in Ruby and Mark will continue to serve you from the place you know well. Your policies will remain the same, as well. As always, should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. We remain at your service."