JACOB GUNTER,
LUTCF, ChFC®, FSS®
CEO & Financial Advisor
(209) 522-0250
jacob@gnarledoakfinancial.com
Jacob is the CEO of GnarledOak Financial and brings nearly two decades of experience in the financial services industry. Known for his thoughtful leadership and dedication to client success, Jacob took a pivotal step in his career in 2022 when he joined Thorson Financial with a succession plan in place. Upon the retirement of founders Tom and Teri Thorson in 2025, Jacob assumed ownership and rebranded the firm as GnarledOak Financial, reflecting both its deep-rooted values and forward-thinking approach.
Driven by a passion for helping people feel truly heard and supported, Jacob believes that financial planning should always begin with understanding what matters most to each individual. His philosophy—“Lead with planning for a more comprehensive approach; focus on what’s important to you”—is the foundation of every client relationship he builds. He is committed to delivering a high level of service, blending technical knowledge with genuine care and empathy.
To better serve his clients, Jacob has earned several industry designations, including the LUTCF, FSS®, BFA™, and ChFC®. These credentials reflect his dedication to ongoing education and his holistic approach to wealth management, retirement planning, and values-based financial guidance.
Jacob grew up in a small, rural town in Nevada, where community and connection were central to everyday life. He moved to the Valley in 2008 with his wife, and together they’ve built a life centered around family, fun, and adventure. They have two children, two cats, and a beloved pet pig. Outside of the office, Jacob enjoys spending quality time with his family, cycling, tackling home improvement projects, working in the garden, and exploring the outdoors.
CEO and Owner of GnarledOak Financial
Nearly 20 years in the financial services industry
-Life and Health License
-Series 6
-Series 7
-Series 63
-Series 65
-California Insurance License #0G26335-Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC)
-Financial Services Specialist (FSS)
-Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow (LUTCF)
DANEÉ OWENS,
Executive Assistant
(209) 522-0250
danee@gnarledoakfinancial.com
Daneé Owens joined the team in 2023, bringing with her a decade of experience in the financial services industry. She holds both a life and health insurance license and is a certified notary—credentials that reflect her commitment to professional excellence. Daneé is passionate about expanding her knowledge of the financial industry and takes pride in playing a key role in the team’s overall success.
As the Executive Assistant, Daneé is often the first voice you hear or the first face you see when contacting the office. She ensures client service paperwork is processed accurately and efficiently, while also providing essential administrative and organizational support that keeps the team running smoothly.
A longtime resident of California's Central Valley, Daneé has called the area home for the past 25 years. Here she met her husband and they are celebrating their first year of marriage in September. Outside of the office she enjoys spending time with her family, reading , traveling and staying active at the gym.