Where Family, Community, and Coverage Come Together – Agent Mike Panka

April 27, 2026

Mike Panka’s roots in agriculture and community run deep. He grew up on a family farm near Ivanhoe, Minnesota, alongside four siblings, raising dairy, beef, hogs, and grain. That upbringing shaped not only his work ethic but his lifelong commitment to serving rural families who rely on trust, knowledge, and long-term relationships.

In 2005, at just 24 years old, Mike became the fourth generation of his family to join the insurance industry, taking over his Grandpa Mervin Eischens’ agency and joining Farmers Union Agency. He opened his first FUA office in Canby, later expanding to Ivanhoe and Marshall, strategically growing while staying firmly connected to the communities that raised him. Today, two of his siblings work alongside him at the agency: Vicky, who joined in 2011, and Adam, who started in 2008, reinforcing the family-first foundation of his business.

What truly sets Mike apart is his genuine care for client understanding. He is deeply committed to making sure every customer fully understands their policies and coverage, taking the time to educate rather than rush decisions. That transparency and patience have earned him trust across generations, many of the same families his grandfather once served.

Mike is especially passionate about giving back to his community and values being part of an agency that serves all clients, not just those in agriculture. He believes Farmers Union Agency stands out because it shares his core values of integrity, education, and community support.

Mike credits his success not only to his family and local community, but also to the strong mentorship and collaboration within Farmers Union Agency. He is especially grateful for the guidance and support of fellow agents and leadership past and present – Joel Harmoning, Rodney Allebach, Dennis Fjeld, Daylon Faber, Ben Caron, Lisa Preuss, and President Josh Vickerman to name a few. Those relationships have helped him grow both professionally and personally.

For Mike Panka, being an insurance agent isn’t just a career, it’s a continuation of legacy, service, and community built on trust.