John J. Ernst

John Ernst and Amy Santarelli worked together for many years within Ernst Financial Group before combining their individual practices in 2023.  After 24 years in the business, John retired and Amy acquired his practice, evolving into KJ Wealth Advisory. 

John founded Ernst Financial Group in 1990 with the goal of providing sound retirement planning strategies to businesses and individuals throughout Western Massachusetts and Northern Connecticut. John completed his undergraduate degree in English at Hamilton College.

John continues to actively give back to his community. He was a founding member of the Longmeadow Educational Excellence Foundation (LEEF) to raise funds for school enrichment programs. He participated in the Read Aloud program at Bailliet Elementary School and is its Business Partner, funding enrichment programs for students. John has been a past volunteer with the Community United Way of the Pioneer Valley and has been associated with Human Resources Unlimited, a social services nonprofit, as a board member. He has also served as a board member and president of the Community Music School of Springfield and was recently presented with the "Fab 4" award for longtime service to the school.

As full time residents of Saco, Maine, John and his wife Laurie enjoy any activities that they can share with their grandchildren.  John can also be found playing a sport that allows him to be outdoors—golf, skiing, tennis.  He is thoroughly enjoying his retirement!