River City Six – Dave Arkfeld
Meet Dave Arkfeld, a mortgage lender at Lincoln Federal Savings Bank.
Tell us a little about your business.
I originate secondary market loans to purchase or refinance a primary residence, second home, or investment property. I sell money! I have been in mortgage lending full time since 1999.
How did you get started in the business?
First banking job was at FirsTier Savings Bank inside Bakers Stores. Then, I moved to Omaha State Bank in Retail Lending. I was always mostly in retail positions in banks. I grew intrigued by the mortgage lending process and the opportunity to help people gain home ownership. There is something new every day to learn.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Mortgage Loan Crisis of 2007. Lots of finger pointing.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Getting my individual NMLS license and surviving in this crazy business.
Tell us a little about your family.
My wife Michelle currently manages a dental office. She and I went to the same high school but didn’t date until after college. We ended up having four kids in five years. They are all grown up now and doing exciting things. Matt is in retail banking with Wells Fargo Bank. Emily is a corporate trainer with Sun Tan City in Kansas City and just got engaged. Jack works for Habitat for Humanity as an Energy Modernization Specialist. Joe graduates this spring from UNL in marketing and is part of the Center for Sales Excellence.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Had a heart attack at age 44. Happened while I was playing in a softball tournament. No heart damage, very lucky. Before that every little thing used to make me lose my temper. Now I work though problems knowing most issues usually work themselves out.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Building/repairing something around the house.
Who inspires you?
My dad. He worked as a community banker. He was/is a very civic minded volunteer. He taught me to give my time to help others by example.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“A loan closing is like an airplane landing; any one you can walk away from is a good one.” Another favorite of mine is, “Somewhere in the village, we are all idiots.”
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
“Don’t Look Back” by Boston.
Which talent would you most like to have?
To be able to play hockey.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
Being a commercial pilot. When I lived in the Twin Cities, I would park and just watch the airplanes land and take off.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
Little League baseball and softball because it gives kids a chance to just play the game. I’m also involved in Knights of Columbus, a Catholic men’s organization committed to community service.
What is your favorite movie?
Top Gun. (Can’t wait for the sequel!)
What is your favorite TV show?
Pardon the Interruption on ESPN.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Abraham Lincoln, a humble leader.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
(402) 493-5599 (office); (402) 880-8687 (cell); darkfeld@lincolnfed.com; darkfeld.lincolnfed.com.