Washington Wealth Group | Washington, DC
Meet Bernie
Bernie Wolfe, CFP®
Wealth Manager
Bernie's Role
Bernie is a seasoned financial strategist who provides practical, personalized advice for his clients. With more than 40 years in the business, he has witnessed and lived through the full spectrum of market volatility and he brings a level of objectivity and insight that his clients deeply appreciate. Like many of the people he serves, Bernie has children and grandchildren he wants to protect and provide for and he readily shares his experiences with clients who have similar desires and want a real-life perspective. He has seen enough to know that patience is key in every scenario and he is the one clients turn to when life or the economy feel uncertain. They appreciate his ability to speak candidly, providing sound judgment that helps them navigate financial decisions with greater clarity and confidence.
Advising Specialty
Bernie is a master listener with a heart for helping others. He serves as a reliable sounding board for his clients, discussing the concerns that keep them up at night and working with them to figure out the best solutions for them and their families. This approach has proven him a trusted advisor for clients of all different backgrounds and lifestyles, many of whom Bernie served for 20, 30, or 40 years. With his diverse clientele, he has become adept at developing highly personalized financial strategies. He knows that a "huge win" for one client might not be worth the risk to another, so he focuses on learning what each person values and wants from their wealth, and aligning their investments accordingly.
Industry background & education
Much of Bernie's advising approach stems from his experience as a professional hockey player. Growing up in Montreal, he played Division 1 hockey for five years at Sir George Williams University before graduating in 1974. That summer, he moved to D.C. and joined the big leagues with the Washington Capitals, where he played for five years. In that time, the game instilled in him a high level of discipline that drives him to this day, enabling him to adhere to time-tested investment principles even when the rest of the world is following trends. His experience also taught him how to work with all kinds of people, and he loves getting to collaborate with clients and help them reach their financial potential.
After retiring from hockey in 1979, Bernie earned his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation in 1981, making him one of the first 100 financial professionals to do so. He maintains the designation to this day, regularly engaging in continuing education to provide his clients timely and relevant advice.
Philanthropy
Bernie views his success in the industry as a prime opportunity to give back to others. He and his wife, Patsy, have supported several charities throughout the years and they are especially passionate about serving families and children in need.
Bernie is also a board member of the ACCHL, an organization that garners support for club teams at large universities. Their goal is to grow these teams and create more opportunities for the many great players who may not make a Division 1 team, but are still highly qualified and desire to continue playing.
Personal life
Bernie is a tried-and-true family man who loves spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He and Patsy met during college in Montreal and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in January of 2025. They have two talented daughters: Amanda, who lives in New York City, and Jennifer, who lives in Maryland. Both daughters are married to wonderful husbands and have two children each, and Bernie and Patsy take every opportunity to fly in and watch their grandkids' sporting events or take the whole family on a trip together.
In his personal time, Bernie enjoys golfing, exercising (he's partial to Peloton rides), and reading (particularly James Patterson and John Grisham).
Fun facts
What's one thing every person should add to their daily routine?
I think exercise is important, and as you get older, work on your balance. Just take care of yourself—that's how I live my life.
What or who makes you laugh?
My grandkids. For me, it's all about family, and they really make me laugh.
What is one item you can't live without?
Ketchup. I probably have six half-gallon ketchup bottles here, and I've been using it heavily since I was a kid.
What person has most impacted your life?
Probably my wife. She's a great sounding board—she can see things in the business world that I miss sometimes, and she's a great advisor for me. I appreciate that and I appreciate her.