Dave Blake works primarily with privately held and high-net-worth business owners and their families, helping them navigate the complex decisions around business and legacy planning.
His focus on business owners is personal. Raised in a family of entrepreneurs — including his father and grandfather, both McDonald’s operators — Dave’s first job was handing out French fries at age 12. From an early age, he witnessed the discipline, risk, and responsibility that come with building a business and supporting employees and family alike.
One experience shaped his perspective. In 2001, both his father and grandfather sold their McDonald’s stores. They operated in the same region and were strong operators — yet only one achieved a premium valuation. The difference came down to strategic decisions made years before the sale. That experience cemented Dave’s belief that preparation — both business and personal — is what separates a good outcome from a great one.
As a Partner and Private Wealth Advisor at Cranbrook Financial Partners, he advises clients on cash flow, investment strategy, tax planning, risk management, exit and retirement planning, and multigenerational estate planning — with a singular focus on protecting and advancing family legacy.
Dave earned the Private Wealth Advisor designation from Raymond James and holds a degree in Economics and Management from Albion College’s Gerstacker Institute. He is a member of Woodside Bible Church, National Ski Patrol, Truth at Work. Dave lives in Rochester Hills with his wife, Rebecca, and their three children.
Raymond James is not affiliated with any of the organizations mentioned.