About Desert West Associates

Desert West Associates isn’t an office full of people you meet just once or twice. We’re here to make sure the financial guidance process is based on your goals and values. You’ll get to know the whole team as you schedule your appointments, build and implement a plan, call with questions, attend our social events, lead a Thrivent Action Team and introduce us to your friends and family. We’ll help you make decisions around your insurance, investing, and retirement planning needs by getting to know what really matters to you. Whether you’re just starting out in your career or are preparing for the retirement you’ve dreamed about, we can help you identify financial opportunities to help you reach your ultimate destination with confidence.

Living Generously in the Community

  • Northern Arizona University Foundation
  • Arizona Christian School Tuition Organization
  • Northwest Christian School
  • ELCA Fund for Leaders in Mission
  • Phoenix Christian Preparatory School
Clark Krueger

Clark Krueger

CFP®, ChFC®, FIC, RICP®

Clark joined the Thrivent team in 1991 and became a member of the Thrivent Financial Hall of Fame in 2015. He specializes in financial planning, investment management, and charitable giving. He is married to Kim and has three wonderful daughters. Out of the office, Clark is an avid golfer and an amateur musician. Just a few of the charities he supports include the ELCA Fund for Leaders, Northern Arizona University Foundation, and the Good Samaritan Society.

Title

Wealth Advisor

State(s) Licensed
AZ, CA Insurance Lic. #0E07997 , CO, FL, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KY, MI, MN, NC, NJ, OR, PA, TX, WA, WI,
Website
https://connect.thrivent.com/clark-krueger
Phone
623-939-6455
Brandon Sparks

Brandon Sparks

FIC

Brandon began his career with Thrivent in 1997 and specializes in retirement and investment planning. He married his supportive wife Keri in 1996 and together they have two children. Out of the office, Brandon spends time coaching football and is a horseback riding and team roping enthusiast. He jumps at the chance to learn a new hobby or skill. Brandon gives back to his community by supporting organizations such as Phoenix Christian Preparatory School, Northwestern Christian School, and Trinity Lutheran Church and School.

Title

Financial Associate

State(s) Licensed
AZ, ID, MI, NC, SD, TX, WA, WI,
Website
https://connect.thrivent.com/brandon-sparks
Phone
623-939-6455
    Christen Krueger

    Christen Krueger

    CFP®, CDFA®

    Christen joined the Desert West Associates team as in intern in August 2004. She is a third-generation financial professional with Thrivent who specializes in financial guidance and investment operations. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling, reading, and finding new restaurants (a self-proclaimed foodie). On a regular basis you can find her at book club or playing Fantasy Football with her girlfriends. Some of Christen’s favorite charities to support include Florence Crittenton and Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

    Title

    Financial Advisor

    State(s) Licensed
    AZ, CA Insurance Lic. #4221986 , CO, MI, NJ, PA, TX,
    Website
    https://connect.thrivent.com/christen-krueger
    Phone
    623-939-6455
      Melissa Bertram

      Melissa Bertram

      Melissa joined the Desert West Associates team in 2015 and continuously finds joy in her work. She, and her husband Danny, have a beautiful daughter who keeps them very busy and their lives fulfilled! As a family they like participating in local charity walks, camping, attending Nascar races, and cheering on the AZ Cardinals.

      Title

      Insurance Office Professional