West Shore Bank acquires Grand Rapids/Muskegon wealth management firm.

West Shore Bank acquires Grand Rapids/Muskegon wealth management firm.

LUDINGTON – West Shore Bank has acquired Grand Rapids- and Muskegon-based Ellis Capital Management. West Shore Bank has bank branches in Oceana, Mason, Manistee, and Benzie counties. The acquisition of the firm extends West Shore Bank’s wealth management services into Kent, Ottawa and Muskegon counties.

“Ellis Capital Management has a longstanding reputation for client-centered service delivered with uncompromising integrity,” said Raymond A. Biggs, president and CEO of West Shore Bank. “Their approach to business complements the West Shore Bank brand. It’s an honor to combine our strengths under the same name.”

Ellis Capital Management was founded by David K. Ellis in 1997 to deliver wealth management services to west Michigan families, businesses and nonprofit organizations.   Following the acquisition, Ellis and his team will join the West Shore Bank – Wealth Management group.  Ellis will join as senior vice president, primarily responsible for growing the Grand Rapids and Muskegon regions.  The two Ellis Capital Management offices in Grand Rapids and Muskegon will be rebranded with the West Shore Bank – Wealth Management name.

“We’ve always coached clients to take the long view, looking beyond investment strategy to consider advanced planning,” Ellis said. “It is also the cornerstone of West Shore Bank’s wealth management philosophy.”

“Ellis Capital shares our resolve to provide peace of mind through advanced planning,” said Brian D. Moore, senior vice president of West Shore Bank – Wealth Management group. “Our approach encompasses prudent asset management, safeguarding net worth, tax mitigation, charitable giving, leaving a legacy—a lifetime of guidance regarding financial matters.”