ABOUT US

We represent a different kind of insurance - a broker that puts you, our neighbour, first!
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Our History & Philosophy

We're In Your Community

Guardsman Insurance Services traces its history back to the late 1950s when Keith Watson started his own insurance brokerage. In May of 1971 Guardsman Insurance Services Inc. was incorporated with Kingston, Ontario as its head office. Over the years Guardsman Insurance has expanded, opening offices in Ottawa and Bancroft. With the growth of internet-based business we now serve clients across the province of Ontario. Guardsman remains a family owned business with Keith’s grandson, Thomas, purchasing the company in 2013. This ownership transition has ensured our stability for decades to come.

Insurance is a complicated product. As such the staff at Guardsman Insurance has adopted a simple philosophy for our clients. We strive to serve our clients in plain language; providing individualized solutions and personal communication. Our clients are extensions of our family and you are never ‘just a number’ to us. Guardsman Insurance truly cares about our clients and values our long-term relationships.

Meet The Team
We Find The Best Fit
Price is only one consideration. We work with you to design an insurance program that meets your unique needs. Our dedicated brokers will work to match you to the appropriate coverage at a highly competitive price.
Flexible Plans
We are able to arrange monthly payments for all of our clients. 95% of our companies offer payment plans and we work with outside finance companies to assist with the 5% who do not.
Our Philosophy
Insurance is a complicated product. As such the staff at Guardsman Insurance has adopted a simple philosophy for our clients. We strive to serve our clients in plain language; providing individualized solutions and personal communication. Our clients are extensions of our family and you are never ‘just a number’ to us. Guardsman Insurance truly cares about our clients and values our long-term relationships.

Three Generation of Leadership

Keith Watson, FIIC

Founder

Keith Watson was born in Ompah and moved to Kingston in 1954 at the age of 12. In 1969 he founded Guardsman Insurance Services in Kingston and now has three offices in eastern Ontario. Keith is a strong supporter of the Canadian Justice system and demonstrates this support with his active participation. He has been a member of the OPP Auxiliary Police, he organized the acquisition of the OPP rollover vehicle simulator to demonstrate seat belt safety, organized and chaired the International Law Enforcement committee and is a founding board member and supporter of the OPP Youth Foundation. Keith believes that a positive environment will impact the attitudes of our youth and assist them to develop to their full potential. Amongst his many awards Keith has received the OPP Commissioner’s Citation, the Governor General’s caring Canadian award and was the first Canadian to receive the New York State Police Superintendent’ citation. He is also the recipient of an Honorary Degree at St. Lawrence College for his community support along with being a Rotary Paul Harris recipient. Keith is married to Bernice and they have two grown children and three grandchildren.

Thomas Watson Sr, CD, AIIC

CEO

Tom Watson Senior was born and raised in Kingston. Tom entered into the family insurance business in 1978 and obtained his Chartered Insurance Professional designation shortly after. Tom has always strived to obtain the best possible product at the best possible pricing for Guardsman Clients. As a life and disability agent, Tom can look after all of your insurance requirements. His community involvement included 18 years as a Training Sargent with the Ontario Provincial Policy Auxiliary Unit in Kingston and South Frontenac. Tom was also a Captain with the Cadet Instructor Cadre with Kingston’s 58 Squadron for 14 years; recently retiring as Commanding Officer of the Squadron. Along with his wife Kristiina, for the past 8 years they have provided non-denominational church services at The Royal Place retirement home in Kingston as well as working together in their humanitarian work. Through his community involvement he has been awarded the Canada 125th Medal (1992), The Queens Golden Jubilee Medal (2002) and Canadian Forces Decoration (2015) His part time passions have been restoring old BSA motorcycles and flying the companies C-177 Hawk XP II. Tom is married to Kristiina; with a blended family of 4 grown children, 2 boys and 2 girls. ( And a grandson on the way !)

Thomas Watson Jr, CD, CIP

President

Thomas is a third-generation insurance broker and has 10 years of experience. His background in risk-management is an asset to this client service. Thomas works hard to look after his clients and anticipate their needs. Outside of the office he is a dedicated community volunteer and sits on the board of directors with multiple charities and non-profits. He is a Reserve Officer in the Canadian Armed Forces currently working with the Cadet Program in Carleton Place, Ontario Thomas has been recognized for his community involvement with the Queens Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Our Guardsman Family

Our Brokers
Customer Service Representative
23 years with Guardsman Insurance with a CAIB designation. Take the best of care of my clients and willing to take on new. So give me a call and see what I can do for you. Any spare time after hours is spent having fun with my family and friends.
Customer Service Representative
23 years with Guardsman Insurance with a CAIB designation. Take the best of care of my clients and willing to take on new. So give me a call and see what I can do for you. Any spare time after hours is spent having fun with my family and friends.

Have A Question?

Did we miss something? We're here to help and have a team of friendly people, from your neighbourhood, on hand to answer your questions. You can either call us or send us a message using the form.

We have 5 locations! Find one near you.