Peter Leonczyk

Financial Advisor, Pioneer Valley Financial Group; Age 36; Education: Westfield State University

Since joining PV Financial Group in 2013, Leonczyk has grown his book of business by 150%, and is now responsible for 16% of the firm’s total revenue, while finding time to volunteer with organizations like the Ludlow CARES Coalition and Junior Achievement.

What did you want to be when you grew up? I always dreamed of becoming an environmental police officer. My parents instilled in me a deep appreciation for the outdoors very early on. From camping throughout New England to fishing in every body of water I could find, I’ve always felt a duty to protect and preserve the environment. As I grew up, my desire to connect and serve with my community and interest in economics and finance led me down the path of becoming a financial advisor. My desire today is to instill in my children that same love of the outdoors and serving others, creating special memories that impact the individuals they grow up to become.

What are you passionate about? I’m passionate about serving my community because I care deeply for everyone in it. Coaching youth football is just another example of how my past and present interests have converged. It comes naturally for me to build strong connections with friends, community members, teammates, and clients because I’m interested in their lives and their families; I’m fueled by their stories, passions, hopes, and dreams.

What will work colleagues say at your funeral? I’m passionate, slightly dramatic, and I know how to deliver a good one-liner. I make friends easily, and I’m as sappy as I am sarcastic. I’m deeply committed to my family, my friends, and all the people I’ve met throughout my life.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? I think about my grandfathers a lot. My mother’s father was an Air Force pilot in World War II and a helicopter pilot in the Korean War. He instilled in our family a deep respect and admiration for giving back through his 30 years of military service. My mother speaks to his honor and integrity, passing down the belief system that you should always do the right thing even when no one is watching. My father’s father served in the Navy and went on to become a master electrician. I would be honored to sit across from these men and learn more about the experiences that shaped them.