Arthur J. Glatfelter, founder of the Glatfelter Insurance Group, died Feb. 14 at the age of 88.

Glatfelter founded his York, Pa.-based independent insurance agency in 1951 on three principles: serve as a trusted advisor to clients, make sure clients understand their loss exposure, and provide service beyond expectations.

The insurance group says it is one of the largest privately-owned insurance brokers in the U.S., with more than 500 associates serving 30,000 clients.

“Art built a strong company and continued to work tirelessly to serve the needs of the insurance industry up until his retirement last year,” says Tony Campisi, president and CEO of Glatfelter, in a statement. Glatfelter was living with Alzheimer's, according to reports from the local newspaper, The York Daily Record.

“He was proud of the dedicated work of his associates to help build the company and distinguish Glatfelter Insurance from the competition,” Campisi continues.

Among his insurance accomplishments, the Glatfelter Insurance group website relays an anecdote about its founder. Glatfelter looked to underserved markets within the insurance industry and in 1968, after speaking to a new client—a local volunteer fire department—Glatfelter began interviewing every fire chief he could.

Glatfelter eventually founded VFIS, the world's leading provider of insurance, education, training and consulting products to emergency service organizations.

The community remembers Glatfelter as a philanthropist, a donor to many charities—especially local. He started a group of contributors who gave to the local United Way. He started Project Connections in the local school district to connect middle school students to mentors at local businesses. Glatfelter also founded the Cultural Alliance of York County, raising money for local arts organizations.

Glatfelter joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1942 and brought his dog, Pal, with him. According to reports, Glatfelter's dog was also extraordinary. The German shepherd became one of 72 dogs in the 3rd Marine War Dog Platoon—charged with sniffing out mines.

Their amazing story, as well as community remembrances of Glatfelter, can be read here.

Special Reports /

Glatfelter Insurance Group Founder Dies at 88

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