Management

Jeff is a graduate of Michigan State University and has been a CPA since 1983, the same year that "Every Breath You Take" by the Police was the top song on Billboard's list.

He holds certifications in everything that is important to business people including Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), Certified Strategic Performance Measurement (CSPM), Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and Certified in Tri-Metrix Analysis (no acronym provided for this one.)

He is also trusted with the treasury by groups like the Kalamazoo County Alumni of Michigan State University and the Kalamazoo County YMCA. 

Jeff is a member of Southridge Reformed Church and has been married for over 25 years to his High School sweetheart, Cathy Jo Cole (Wendt). They have two children, Lauren A. Mulder (married to Jacob Mulder), and Spencer A. Cole.

Jeff regularly helps businesses create and achieve their strategic objectives. Ask him why his DISC profile advises you to "not use gimmicks" when communicating with him.

Dan Gavlas has been a partner with Cole Gavlas since January 1, 2001 and a CPA for almost 20 years. When Dan started in accounting, Enron was a successful company and no one had heard of a Blackberry that wasn't edible.  

His experience spans all phases of accounting, tax consulting, and general business advisory services for medium and small businesses and individuals.  He is especially knowledgable about the real estate industry, manufacturing, construction, and medical.  

Dan graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants.  

Ask Dan what it means that his DISC profile lists him as a "Supporting Coordinator."

Ed is a CPA with 35 years of experience in all phases of accounting, tax consulting and general business advisory services for medium and small private corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies and individuals. 

He was a tax partner in an international accounting firm for 17 of those 35 years.  He has instructed at tax related continuing education sessions and specializes in tax planning and compliance.  He is a client relationship partner. The most fulfilling part of his job is creating winning strategies to take advantage of tax opportunities he has identified.  He enjoys continual learning and finds it to be an interesting aspect of being in the tax field.  Another rewarding aspect of his job is sharing his knowledge and experience with others, clients and associates alike. 

Ed’s favorite part of the day is morning with the prospect of new challenges and successes. 

Ed’s three favorite places in the world to share with anyone are Yosemite National Park with its natural wonder; Chicago, Ill. and its cultural attractions and restaurants; and, any college campus in the fall with the promise of learning and development of opportunity at the start of a new class.

Ed strives for thoughtful and concise communication of ideas and consequently admires Abraham Lincoln for his communication ability, among his many admirable traits.