Mario Canta met my husband Jim in a very fitting way: playing at a local golf course benefit. I met Mario’s wife Lisa in town when her daughters Kelsey and Dakota were attending dance lessons at my Dance Academy. We became family friends, and our lives remained parallel through our church, community events, dance, and family gatherings.
A friend at first, Mario then became a trusted advisor to our family. Jim and I appreciated his knowledge of life insurance and estate planning, which proved to be invaluable when unexpected tragedy affected our lives. Jim passed away, and we experienced an extremely difficult period of grief and sorrow.
Mario was by my side throughout this tough time to assist me. He guided me with great compassion through the clear choices that Jim had made while he was alive. I learned more about the life insurance and estate planning preparations that Jim and Mario had carefully prepared, never knowing that 9/11 would ever be something that our family would be faced with. However, it had become an unconscionable reality.
Mario worked side by side with my financial planner and estate attorney. He always made himself available throughout the necessary meetings to carry out Jim’s wishes and secure our family’s future.
Jim and I were parents of two important four and two-year olds at the time. The love Jim had for his family, and making sure he had life insurance, has proven to be one of the best investments. It is because of the planning Jim had done with Mario that we were able to stay in our home, something I couldn’t have done on my own. Our children were able to remain in their private school setting, and as of recent years, pursue their college education. I also had the financial support to continue my career of being a business owner of a successful dancing school for over 20 years.
Fortunately, I have since remarried, and have been blessed with more family. Throughout the years, Mario has continued to be a friend and trusted advisor. We continue to carry life insurance as a part of our estate planning.
Working with Mario and Lisa, and their daughters Dakota and Kelsey, is a pleasure. Both Dakota and Kelsey have grown to be exceptional young women. I’m fortunate to also work with Kelsey as a choreographer and instructor. She is dedicated to helping others achieve their personal goals.
I’m certain Mario will continue to make a difference in people’s lives being a strong and trusted advisor, just as he has been for our family for over two decades."
- Sheri Ladley-Calamusa, Owner of Colts Neck Dance and Performing Arts Studio