If 2026 is the year you plan to grow your business, Lake Region Bank’s experienced commercial lenders are ready to help you explore financing options with confidence. Meet Mike Malone and Mike Fagerlie, our knowledgeable, community-focused lending team dedicated to guiding business owners through every stage of growth.
Is 2026 the year you expand your space, invest in new equipment, or get a better handle on your business’s cash management? Then it’s time to talk to the Lake Region Bank commercial lenders about your financing options. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff enjoys educating business owners about financing and guiding them through the lending process.
Take a minute to get to know the Mighty Mikes!
Meet Mike Malone, Vice President and Senior Commercial Lender
Mike’s been part of the Lake Region Bank team since July 1997. He worked in consumer loans until he switched to commercial lending in 2002. In 2015, he became the bank’s senior commercial lender.
Mike works with all sorts of entrepreneurs who are starting a business, buying a business, or growing a business. This includes contractors, farmers, and other business owners.
When working with customers, Mike encourages business owners to identify their weaknesses as well as their strengths, as even the most talented entrepreneur can’t do it all. Mike recommends everyone have a good commercial banker, CPA, and bookkeeper on their team.
When he’s not working, Mike is spending time with his family, which is his top priority. They enjoy boating, biking, hiking, and working on the family cars.
Get in touch with Mike at the New London branch or call 320-262-5202.
Meet Mike Fagerlie, Commercial Lender
Mike Fagerlie joined the Lake Region Bank team in March 2024. He previously worked as a certified general real estate appraiser for 24 years in an office that shared a building with Lake Region Bank. In this role, he got to know the approximately 10 counties that comprise west-central Minnesota.
Mike enjoys working with a wide variety of customers on their capital needs, from entrepreneurs who want to start their own enterprises to established businesses that are looking to buy or grow.
When working with customers, Mike emphasizes five keys to success: capacity, collateral, capital, conditions, and characters. By focusing on these five areas, a business owner can become the best they can be.
When he’s not working, Mike spends time with his wife, three sons, and two dogs. He is a member of the Willmar Baseball Association and board member of the 100 Yard Club and Willmar Public Schools Foundation.
Get in touch with Mike at the Willmar branch or call 320-214-3040.
Happy Retirement, Kevin!
Earlier this year, Kevin Rueckert retired after nearly 20 years on the Lake Region Bank team. Throughout his career with us, he enjoyed working with business owners and seeing their innovations and successes come to life. He marveled at what some local businesses create and produce! Serving our business community was truly a joy for Kevin. We thank him for his many years of service to our bank, our customers, and our community. See you in the neighborhood, Kevin! Ready to get started on financing for your 2026 business investment? Get in touch with the talented Lake Region Bank commercial lending team today.
Commercial Lenders FAQs
What types of business financing can Lake Region Bank help with?
Our commercial lenders assist with financing for business startups, expansions, equipment purchases, real estate, and cash management needs.
Who are Lake Region Bank’s commercial lenders?
Mike Malone, Vice President and Senior Commercial Lender, and Mike Fagerlie, Commercial Lender bring deep experience and a passion for supporting local businesses.
How do Lake Region Bank lenders support business owners beyond loans?
Our lenders focus on education, relationship-building, and helping business owners understand their strengths, challenges, and long-term financial strategies.
Why work with a local commercial lender for business financing?
Local lenders understand the regional economy, value personal relationships, and provide hands-on guidance throughout the lending process.
