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Matt Schwarze

Alec Kane

Tammie Cornell

Kyle Oleson

Derek Carlson

Matt Schwarze

Matt is a busy dad of three young kids, but he still finds the time to do what he loves with his family. Outside of boating, he loves spending time with his daughters, fishing, hunting, and golfing. Being from Chelsea, MI, he grew up fishing with his dad and earning an appreciation for fishing boats. Now his favorite boat is the Pursuit S288 and his favorite place to boat are the Manitou Islands. With his own, extensive boating experience Matt suggests that customers in the market for a new boat see them in person. “With so many options both new and used available today on so many different platforms, it can be challenging navigating it by yourself. Get into the showroom and feel out these models that initially pique your interest. Consult with your local sales professional who can speak to each boat specifically and compare that to how you intend to use it. Ideally, this leads to the perfect match.”

Alec Kane

Alec was six months old when he went on his first boat ride and has spent his whole life around boats and the water. Growing up in Dayton, OH, he spent the summers on boat trips from Lake Erie to the North Channel, visiting the iconic Northern Michigan destinations.  He now loves boating around the Les Cheneaux Islands, 36 islands that provide protection for the perfect boating conditions on Lake Huron. He appreciates the freedom that boating offers. It’s the best way to leave the burdens of daily life behind. “It’s hard not to be happy on a boat!” As many Les Cheneaux fans do, Alec appreciates classic wooden boats and even restores them in his free time. From this appreciation for classics, his love for Chris Crafts was born. In his eyes, the Chris Craft 28 GT is “the perfect blend of Chris Craft heritage, class, and capability for Lake Michigan boating.” Despite a small bias toward classics, Alec strives to find the perfect boat for his customers based on their needs. He recommends that new boat buyers ask a lot of questions as this helps our team determine which boats best suit their preferences.

Tammie Cornell 

At our dealership, we’re proud to have a team of passionate and dedicated individuals who are committed to helping you find the perfect boat. One standout member of our team is Tammie Cornell, a seasoned sales professional with a deep love for boating and a wealth of experience to share.

Tammie’s journey into the world of boating began in 1980 when she purchased her first boat—a 23-foot Checkmate. From the moment she hit the water, she was captivated by the sense of freedom and relaxation that boating offers. Over the years, this initial passion has only grown stronger, and Tammie has become an invaluable resource for both new and experienced boaters alike.

One of Tammie’s favorite aspects of her job is interacting with the boating community. She finds the camaraderie among boaters to be one of the most rewarding parts of her work, and she genuinely enjoys the friendly and welcoming atmosphere that defines the boating lifestyle. For Tammie, there’s nothing quite like the joy of being out on the water, whether she’s cruising on Grand Traverse Bay or exploring the beautiful shores of Lake Charlevoix.

When it comes to the boats we offer, Tammie has a particular fondness for the Regal 38 Grande Coupe. She believes this model stands out for its exceptional design, performance, and versatility, making it an ideal choice for a variety of boating needs.

Tammie’s advice for boat buyers is both practical and insightful: “Buy your second boat first.” She emphasizes the importance of choosing a boat that will not only meet your current needs but also accommodate your future and preferences. This forward-thinking approach ensures that you get the most value and enjoyment from your investment. One of her most helpful apps she recommends is Garmin’s Active Captain. It is a favorite of hers because it seamlessly connects with Garmin chart plotters, charts, and maps, providing valuable navigation and planning tools for boaters from your smart phone. Her favorite memories at work include company events like the cornhole tournaments and the Nauti Cat cruises.

Outside of her professional life, Tammie is an active member of the boating community and loves to camp. Her interests also extend to gardening and kayaking, reflecting her love for the outdoors. Known for her great sense of humor and love of practical jokes, Tammie brings a joyful and energetic spirit to everything she does.

Tammie Cornell is a shining example of the dedication and enthusiasm that our sales team embodies. If you’re in the market for a new boat or simply want to learn more about the boating lifestyle, Tammie is always ready to share her knowledge and passion. Reach out to her for an exceptional experience and expert guidance on your next boating adventure.

Kyle Oleson 

Meet Kyle Oleson from Traverse City, MI, a valued member of our team with a lifelong passion for boating. Kyle’s love for the sport began at a very young age, thanks to his parents who introduced him to boating when he was just a baby. Growing up in a boating family, it was only natural that Kyle’s enthusiasm for the water would continue to flourish.

One of Kyle’s favorite aspects of boating is the sense of adventure and freedom it provides. He thrives on the opportunities to explore and experience new things on the water, making each outing a unique and exhilarating experience.

Among the various boats we offer, Kyle has a particular fondness for the Regal LS36. He appreciates its blend of style, performance, and functionality, making it a standout choice for those who want both luxury and adventure on the water.

When it comes to the Great Lakes, Kyle’s favorite boating destinations are the Manitous on Lake Michigan. The beauty and tranquility of these islands provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable boating experiences.

For those new to the boat-buying process, Kyle offers straightforward advice: “Buy the boat!!!! You’re going to LOVE IT!!!” His enthusiasm reflects his belief that investing in a boat is one of the best decisions you can make for your enjoyment and lifestyle.

Outside of boating, Kyle enjoys hiking, skiing, and traveling and he admits to spending a lot of time thinking about boating, even when he’s not on the water. One of his favorite memories working at Walstrom was delivering a Regal LS36 to Ocean Reef, Florida—an experience that highlights his dedication and excitement for his career.

Kyle also recommends the Windy app for boaters, praising its accurate weather forecasts as a valuable tool for planning and safe boating.

Here’s a fun tidbit about Kyle: he has a unique talent for riding a unicycle, which he’s showcased at local events like the National Cherry Festival. Whether you’re seeking advice on selecting the perfect boat or just want to discuss your next adventure, Kyle Oleson is eager to share his passion and expertise with you.

Derek Carlson

Meet Derek Carlson, one of our experienced and dedicated sales team members, who brings 25 years of expertise in the boating industry. Hailing from Traverse City, Michigan, Derek’s love for boating started early, growing up on the shores of Long Lake.

Boating, for him, isn’t just a pastime; it’s a way to unwind and enjoy everything the water has to offer, from peaceful relaxation to exhilarating watersports behind the boat. Derek’s preferred models are the Regal Surf series, valued for their exceptional handling and versatile design—making them ideal for family outings and creating memorable experiences on the water.

When it comes to boating destinations, Long Lake remains Derek’s favorite spot. He knows it like the back of his hand and always enjoys returning to familiar waters.

For those starting the journey of boat ownership, Derek has some expert advice: “Buy your second boat first.” He believes that finding the right fit from the start will save you money and make your boating experience even more enjoyable.

Outside of work and boating, Derek enjoys spending time with family, playing hockey, and hitting the golf course. One of his fondest memories at Walstrom is the end-of-year celebration, where the team comes together to reflect on their successes and enjoy each other’s company.

As for must-have tools on the water, he recommends the Active Captain app, a favorite among boaters for its navigation and safety features. Derek’s deep knowledge and genuine love for boating make him an invaluable part of our team—he’s here to help you find your perfect boat and make the most of your time on the water!