Backbone Insurance Group Inc is an independent insurance agency serving Northeast Iowa since 1948. We represent multiple insurance companies allowing us to design insurance programs to meet your specific needs. We provide coverage for auto, home, renters,  recreational vehicles, umbrella, business, farm, crop, multi-peril, annuities, health, & life insurance.

The agency can trace its beginning to 1948 when Ralph Behrens started selling farm insurance around the Strawberry Point, IA area. In 1971, Doug Behrens, took over his Dad’s agency and expanded to offer home and auto insurance. Diane Schmelzer purchased the agency in 1992 and added business and crop insurance. In 2002 Steve Cook purchased the agency and expanded the products offered to include Life & Health Insurance.

Steve Cook is the current owner and agent of Backbone Insurance Group.  He has 20 years of insurance experience. He holds the distinctions of AFIS (Agribusiness and Farm Insurance Specialist) & CIC (Certified Insurance Counselor).

Lisa Timmerman is an agent of Backbone Insurance Group.  She has 25 years of insurance experience and also serves as office manager.