EDUCATION

Georgetown University - Political Philosophy
Harvard University - Behavioral Economics (Executive Education)

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PROFESSIONAL

In 1981, following his move to Chicago, John founded the Gatewood Group, a comprehensive financial planning firm. In 1984, the company relocated to St. Louis. Under John’s leadership, it experienced consistent growth and transformation, culminating in what is now known as Gatewood Wealth Solutions. Today, the company is known as a premier financial planning firm, as recognized by Barron’s.

 

In a significant transition in 2021, John confidently entrusted the company’s future to a team of highly skilled internal advisors by selling his business. Although he has stepped back from ownership, John continues to exemplify leadership and contribute to strategic decisions in his new role as Business Development Officer, ensuring the company’s continued growth and success.

 

John is a Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®) and CLU®. 

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PERSONAL

A native of Washington, D.C., John grew up as one of thirteen children. A gifted athlete, John played for Northwestern University's soccer team and demonstrated leadership as a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Fraternity. John showcased his artistic side by playing guitar and performing at nightclubs in the D.C. area. John speaks fluent Spanish, having studied in Mexico at Centro Escolar Cedros during a student exchange program from 1970-1971.

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Currently, John resides in Naples, Florida, sharing his life with his dear friend, Judy Smart. He cherishes the memory of his late wife, Annie, who tragically passed away from ALS. His daughter, Sophia, graduated from Texas Christian University, is fluent in Arabic, and is contracted through Booz Allen Hamilton to the State Department in Washington, D.C. His son, Anthony, a Lacrosse scholarship recipient, graduated from Tusculum University in Greeneville, Tennessee. Anthony is a successful entrepreneur who founded Qualify Window Wipers in 2021, a window cleaning and power washing company in St. Louis.

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The driving force behind John's vision for the firm was to help individuals and families become and remain financially self-reliant. John believes that when his firm helps people grow and maintain their wealth, that they benefit society.