Our Story

Our Founder John McDermott came to Canada from his beloved Ireland in 1974. He made Maple Ridge his home with his family. He had various jobs until 1982, when he discovered a passion for the insurance industry. John was truly an entrepreneur, so a few years later he created Simplified Financial and then Simplified Benefit Systems.

John lived his life to the full and his love and compassion for others was his driving force to make Simplified Financial a successful business. He had a great way of making people feel comfortable and cared for, no matter where they came from. John loved telling stories and with his strong Irish brogue still very prevalent, it proved entertaining for those listening to understand exactly what he was saying.

John could only be described as a character and his warm presence would fill a room. He lived his life with love and integrity and with a twinkle in his eye he could always see the funny side of any situation. We were all privileged to have known him and have called him a true friend.

                “Until we meet again…may God hold you in the palm of his hand”