Our History

For four generations, since 1931, the Lappan Agency has been serving clients throughout Michigan. During that time, the Lappan Agency has established itself as one of Northeast Michigan’s leading independent insurance agencies.

Founded in 1931 C.C. “Sam” Lappan, Grandfather of the current owners, brothers Tom, Steve and John Lappan, the agency has thrived on the simple idea that affordable insurance and professional service can be marketed for any risk through a hometown agency. Quality service has become synonymous with the name.

Originally, the agency was housed in a small office attached to the home of Sam and Sarah Lappan in downtown Alpena. As the agency grew, the Lappan Agency diversified into multiple lines of insurance and Sam’s sons Jim and Jack joined the agency in the 1950’s. During the next twenty plus years led by Jim and Jack Lappan the agency grew and continued to implement quality customer service. In 1972 the agency relocated to more spacious surroundings at 180 S. Ripley Blvd in Alpena. In 1973, Tom Lappan, upon graduation from college joined his father Jim. In 1985, Steve joined the agency after working in the insurance industry in California. In 1986 Jim retired and sold the agency to Tom and Steve. In 2004, the Lappan Agency moved into a new and larger office building located on the same premises. The old building that had served the agency well was removed.

2014 was a year of changes for the Lappan Agency.  On July 1, 2014, the agency purchased the Zolnierek Insurance Agency, Inc., which increased the companies represented and the number of team members.  In addition John Lappan became a co-owner with his brothers Tom and Steve.  But the commitment to have a comprehensive insurance agency focused on building community relationships and understanding clients’ needs has not changed.

As a result of excellent insurance company representation and a professional dedicated staff, the Lappan Agency has grown to nearly 10,000 clients throughout Michigan. The Lappan Agency client base includes personal lines insurance, commercial lines insurance, group/personal health and life insurance as well as a municipal/public entity insurance program.