Focus and experience

Allen is fully committed to the clients and families he represents, leveraging more than 25 years of experience to provide expertise and guidance in every area of personal wealth management. From asset management and compensation strategies to collaborating with each family’s attorney, CPA, and insurance specialist, Allen ensures every facet of a client’s financial life is thoughtfully aligned to benefit both current and future generations.

Background and credentials

Allen’s passion for finance began early in his career. His entrepreneurial mindset from a young age was the motivation for living out his lifelong dream of managing his own financial practice. Allen founded Optare Financial Partners after building on more than two decades of industry experience. While actively leading a team of 14 professionals, he continues to manage complex planning relationships and directs the practice’s portfolio strategies. Allen holds the Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS®) designation through the College for Financial Planning.

 
Under his leadership, the team continues to be recognized for excellence, earning the Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Team honor in 2025 and once again in 2026. Allen himself also remains a Forbes Best‑In‑State Wealth Advisor, achieving another top statewide ranking in 2026 and marking seven years of receiving the honor.

(2019, 2021-2026)

Away from the office

Allen and his wife, Rachel, an Interior Designer, enjoy connection above all else. Their love of entertaining and Rachel’s passion for cooking results in their home often being the chosen gathering place for family and friends.


Dedicated to giving back, Allen volunteers with the Real Men Read program through Big Brothers Big Sisters, reading to second-grade students in underprivileged school districts, and currently chairs the Concordia Theological Seminary Endowment Investment Committee.        




*2026 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams: Awarded January 2026; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 3/31/24-3/31/25 (Source: Forbes.com).2025 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams: Awarded January 2025; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 3/31/23-3/31/24 (Source: Forbes.com). https://www.wellsfargoadvisors.com/disclosures/awards-disclosures.htm
 

2026 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2026;Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/24-6/30/25 (Source:Forbes.com) 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2025;Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/23-6/30/24 (Source:Forbes.com).2024 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2024;Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/22-6/30/23 (Source:Forbes.com).2023 Forbes Best-In[1]State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2023;Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/21-6/30/22 (Source:Forbes.com).2022 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2022;Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/20-6/30/21 (Source:Forbes.com).2021 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded February 2021;Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/19-6/30/20 (Source: Forbes.com.)2019 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded February 2019;Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/17-6/30/18 (Source:Forbes.com). The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors rating algorithm is based on the previous year's industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.


Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN). Member SIPC. Any other referenced entity is separate from WFAFN.

Focus and experience

Shawn concentrates his efforts on helping clients focus on what is truly important. To better   understand the needs of his clients, he analyzes and develops retirement, risk management, investment and cash flow strategies. In addition to working with the team’s individual clients, Shawn serves as the team’s 401(k) and retirement planning professional. Shawn is a founding partner of Optare Financial Partners, part of the Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network.

Background and credentials

Shawn graduated from Purdue University’s Krannert School of Management with a degree in Economics and a certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. In pursuit of providing the highest level of guidance to his clients, Shawn is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and has also earned the Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS) designation from the College of Financial Planning. 

Under his leadership the team continues to be recognized for excellence, most recently earning the Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Team honor consecutively in 2025 & 2026. *

Service

Shawn is passionate about service to his country and his community. He served as emergency manager for the Indiana Air National Guard’s 122nd Fighter Wing. Awarded in every step of his military career, including top graduate, distinguished graduate, and graduate with honors. In 2021, Shawn was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal for outstanding achievement in his service to the Air Force. Additionally, Shawn regularly volunteers in the community, currently serving as a second-grade classroom instructor for Junior Achievement and a board director for Amani Family Services, Inc.

Away from the office

Shawn tries to squeeze the most out of every day. That’s why you are equally likely to find him spending time in the great outdoors with his wife, Erica, and kids, Palmer and Wynn, stumbling in his pursuit to be a better amateur chef, or training for an upcoming race or athletic endeavor. Shawn is a repeated U.S. Triathlon National Championships qualifier, ultra-marathoner, and CrossFit Regional competitor. He is always looking forward to his next great challenge as a proud weekend warrior.


*2026 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams: Awarded January 2026; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 3/31/24-3/31/25 (Source:Forbes.com). 2025 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams: Awarded January 2025; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 3/31/23-3/31/24 (Source: Forbes.com).

Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN). Member SIPC.  Any other referenced entity is separate from WFAFN.

CA Insurance Producer License Number 4312255, Resident State CA.

Focus and experience

Dave brings more than 35 years of experience in the securities industry to the practice.  He places a strong emphasis on getting to know the person or people behind the net worth statement to fully understand where they’ve been, where they’re at, and where they want to be for the rest of their life. He believes that personal relationships matter, that everyone is different, and that everyone has emotional triggers that directly impact how they react to investment planning. That’s why he takes the time to really understand the client before discussing strategies. 

In addition to helping individuals, Dave assists companies with their employer-sponsored retirement plans. His areas of focus include personal wealth management, pre- and post-retirement planning, traditional and Roth IRA strategies, employer plans, legacy planning strategies, estate distributions, and education planning.

He recently brought on two new individuals to assist with his growing practice.  His son, Andrew Fortmeyer, comes from a background of consulting work with Capgemini in Chicago.  His nephew, Tony Buuck, brings with him accounting experience having worked at a large construction company in Fort Wayne.

Background and credentials 

Dave entered college intending to teach high school business and coach baseball, so he enrolled in the College of Education at Ball State University. But during his sophomore year, Dave realized he didn’t want to be in the classroom all day. At the same time, a few classes and one particular professor piqued his interest in helping people with investment planning, so he transitioned to a degree in Finance. After graduation, Dave started working with A.G. Edwards.  A merger with Wachovia Securities (2007) and a subsequent takeover by Wells Fargo Advisors (2008) brought him to Optare Financial Partners, part of the Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network.

Away from the office:

Dave and his wife, Rosanne, frequently travel to New York City to visit their other son, Alex. After spending numerous years as an unsatisfied golfer, Dave discovered pickleball (don’t laugh until you try it, and you can call him anytime!). He’s also a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan and the devoted owner of a mini Goldendoodle named Mia. 

Focus and experience

Kara’s focus is on building personal relationships with her clients while maintaining strong professional support.  She knows listening is key to understanding goals and financial concerns.

Each client is unique, and Kara builds a foundation for their investment plan based on a clear understanding and prioritization of each of their major life goals. Her dedication and periodic client reviews help ensure the plan remains on track. Customization becomes a part of those reviews, as change is inevitable.  Kara adheres to a multi-step process to tailor each client’s plan, so they are better prepared to adjust for any potential challenges along the way.

Background and credentials

Kara began her career in the financial industry with Wells Fargo Bank in 2004. Her focus on Organizational Leadership and Supervision studies at Indiana University/Purdue University of Fort Wayne, while managing staff at the bank helped her realize her passion. Kara completed the Licensed Banker program at Wells Fargo in 2012 and went on to become a Financial Advisor in 2015. Her diverse background in banking services along with investment planning makes her a natural fit as an advisor as she assists clients in pursuing their goals. Kara provides the planning needed to help her clients build, manage, protect, and transition their assets.

Away from the office

Kara is an active community volunteer, serving local non-for-profit organizations. She currently volunteers as the Chair of the Finance Council at St. Joseph Catholic Church and teaches religious education to the 8th graders at the parish. You will probably notice Kara’s love for plants when you visit her office. She has been building quite the collection over the past few years. Kara enjoys spending time with her husband Paul, and their three wonderful kids; Emanuel, Ava and Ella.  They live an active family lifestyle and spend many evenings at sporting events.

Focus and experience

Tim has more than 30 years of experience in the securities industry and is dedicated to providing quality investment planning and investment guidance to his clients. He places great importance on building strong personal relationships and is knowledgeable about working with individual clients as well as creating and supporting company 401(k) plans. His areas of focus include retirement planning, IRA and IRA strategies, 401(k) plans, estate planning strategies, education planning, and insurance.

Background and credentials

Tim developed a passion for personal finance at a young age, which led him to Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business where he graduated with a degree in Finance.  Before joining Optare Financial Partners, Tim gained experience with several investment firms, including most recently his 20-year tenure with Wells Fargo Advisors. He actively pursues professional development opportunities relevant to investment strategies. And to further demonstrate his commitment and proficiency in asset management, he also maintains an Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS) designation through the College for Financial Planning.

Away from the office

Tim enjoys spending free time with his wife, Tonya, who works as an IT professional; their three adult daughters, Madison, Claudia, and Molly; and their son-in-law, Spencer. In general, they enjoy talking about, watching, or playing sports. In addition to being an avid golfer, Tim has a newfound interest in biking.

Focus and experience

Jake is a seasoned professional with a diverse background rooted in engineering and project management. As an associate financial advisor on the Optare Financial Partners team, he focuses on supporting clients to create financial and investment strategies that align with their needs and goals. Equipped with personal integrity and a commitment to delivering the highest level of personal service, Jake aims to provide every client with clear financial advice and a vision for their long-term plan. His diverse management experience, strategic thinking, and analytical mindset all contribute to his ability to help guide clients toward their financial goals.

Background and credentials

Jake brings an analytical and disciplined approach to financial advising, shaped by years of experience managing complex projects. His background in planning, budgeting, and risk management supports the development of thoughtful investment and retirement strategies tailored to each client’s long-term goals.  He focuses on delivering clear guidance designed to help clients build confidence and clarity as they plan for retirement.  

Away from the office

Jake is a weekend DIY warrior, so you’re likely to find him and his son, Conrad, in the aisles of the local home improvement store. Along with his vivacious wife, Kathryn, they spend family time working on projects and practicing sports with their son. His family loves to travel and spend time in the outdoors, everything from hiking to golf and especially family bike rides. Jake is also an avid reader of history and personal development.

Focus and experience

Since graduating from college, Hannah has been helping people take control of their financial futures. With a strong background in wealth management and a genuine passion for planning, she’s known for her hands-on approach and personal connection with clients.

Whether building a long-term strategy or navigating life’s financial curveballs, Hannah brings clarity, confidence, and care to every conversation.

Background and credentials

Hannah is driven by a simple but powerful goal: to help people live well by making smart, informed financial decisions. A proud graduate of Butler University’s Lacy School of Business, she holds degrees in both Finance and Marketing.

Always striving to provide the highest level of service, she earned her CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation from the College of Financial Planning—equipping her with the tools and insight to guide clients through every stage of their financial journey.

Away from the office

When she’s not working with clients, you’ll find Hannah soaking up time with family and friends, perfecting her sourdough recipes, relaxing outdoors, or chasing after her two pampered pups on a long walk. She’s a big fan of staying active, diving into a good book, and exploring new places with her husband.

Hannah and her husband welcomed a beautiful new addition to their family, baby Stella, in June of 2025!

Focus and experience

A newcomer to both Optare and the advising industry, Andrew brings a passion for client-facing work and interpersonal relationships, financial markets, and the pursuit of tangible goals. Before joining Optare, he worked as a consultant for a tech company in Chicago focused on financial accounting SAP work and project management for ERP system implementations, gaining experience in both the technical side and leadership side in a large corporate environment.

 

Background and credentials

Andrew graduated in 2022 from the Indiana University Kelley School of Business with a Bachelor’s Degree, co-majoring in Marketing and Data Analytics. Having recently completed his Series 7 and 66 registrations, Andrew is focused on being an eager learner from all the senior Optare employees to enhance and accelerate his knowledge of the financial advising industry to be able to best provide for clients on their financial journey.

 

Away from the office

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys shakily teaching himself how to play guitar, playing in intramural sports leagues with college friends, and is an avid runner.  You can find him in the summer heading to Chicago attending Cubs games, playing pickle ball, or attending concerts with friends.

Focus and experience

A newcomer to both Optare and the advising industry, Tony brings with him a love for interpreting data, crunching numbers, and finding solutions to complex problems. Before joining Optare, he worked as an accountant with a local construction company where he learned the value of both financial & technical skills (such as managing budgets, creating profit projections, and drafting contractual paperwork) as well as developing his professional & interpersonal skills by effectively communicating with team members and subcontractors alike.

Background and credentials

Tony graduated from Purdue University’s Mitch Daniels School of Businiess in 2023 with Bachelor’s Degrees in both Finance and Accounting. Having recently completed his FINRA Series 7 & 66 industry registration examinations, as well as obtaining his Indiana Insurance license, Tony has now shifted his focus to listening and learning from the conversations that the Optare team daily has with clientele and each other alike to grow his knowledge base and develop a skillset that he can use to provide clients with a path to achieving their financial goals.

Away from the office:

Outside of work, Tony enjoys spending time outdoors either golfing, fishing, hunting, or playing with his dog, Bear. He enjoys listening to music and reading, and is also an avid sports fan with a love for basketball and baseball. A lifelong Fort Wayne resident, you can catch him at Tincaps games all summer, or spending time with friends and family over lunches and dinners (basically anywhere there’s food!).

Focus and experience

Amber fills many operational and administrative roles at Optare Financial Partners. She serves as the long-time, primary Client Associate for Managing Director, Allen Loechner. Amber prides herself on delivering accurate and timely responses to all requests within her areas of responsibility.

But above all, what fulfills Amber is building deep relationships with those she spends her day serving: clients and colleagues.

It is evident Amber truly values and is dedicated to the relationships she establishes with each client. She is honored to have been included in many significant client life milestone celebrations, from 100th birthday parties to graduations.

Background and credentials

Amber brings over 23 years of customer service experience, including 15 years in the financial industry. From an early age, she recognized a genuine desire to build meaningful, lasting relationships with the people around her. She discovered her passion for finance while working in retirement plan administration at a top‑performing insurance general agency. As a case manager supporting more than 200 financial advisors, she quickly sharpened her ability to manage multiple client objectives with clarity and compassion.

Amber earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Saint Francis. She also holds the FINRA Series 7 and FINRA Series 66 registrations. She credits her dedication to continuous learning as a driving force behind her ongoing success.

Away from the office

When she is not chasing after her two undeniably adorable daughters, Olivia and Emma, Amber enjoys spending free time with her husband Andy. Their home life wouldn’t be complete without the lovable quirks of their two bulldogs, Hank and Jovie.

Amber and Andy share a love for playing sports together — especially when Amber wins. She also appreciates the beautiful weather Indiana summers bring. If she isn’t coaching her daughters’ sports teams, enjoying time with friends, or creating memories with her girls, you’ll likely find her relaxing at their family lake cottage.

Focus and experience

Amanda brings a strong operational background and a client-centered mindset to her role as Client Associate at Optare Financial Partners. With experience in legal and financial services, she is known for her organization, attention to detail, and ability to keep processes moving efficiently behind the scenes.

She is passionate about helping others and is committed to creating a seamless, supportive experience that allows clients to feel confident and cared for. Whether assisting with service requests, account maintenance, or day-to-day operational support, Amanda approaches each task with professionalism, care, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact.

Background and credentials

Before joining Optare, Amanda worked as a legal assistant, where she partnered closely with clients on Medicaid planning and asset protection strategies. In this role, she guided individuals and families through detailed processes with clarity and compassion, becoming a trusted resource during important life transitions.

She has an associate’s degree in business. Earlier in her career, Amanda spent nine years at Lincoln Financial Group. She specialized in processing service requests and supporting operations, including licensing and contracting. Her extensive experience in financial services operations provides her with a strong foundation in compliance, accuracy, and service excellence.

Away from the office

Outside of work, Amanda is a proud wife, mother of five, and Mimi to three grandchildren. She and her family also share their home with their dog, Rex.

She enjoys staying active through fitness, spending quality time with her family, and traveling whenever she can. Amanda especially loves a good road trip and exploring new places and experiences. She also enjoys reading, attending church and staying active in her faith.

Focus and experience

Hannah brings a detail-oriented and client-focused mindset to her role at Optare Financial Partners. With a background in law and accounting, she approaches each client relationship with precision, care, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact. Whether assisting with financial goals, administrative needs, or day-to-day operations, Hannah is committed to delivering exceptional service and ensuring that every client feels supported.

Her passion for excellence, curiosity, and problem-solving drive her to continually learn and grow. She strives to create meaningful connections and provide a seamless experience that helps clients achieve clarity and confidence in their financial journey.

Background and credentials

Before joining Optare, Hannah gained valuable experience as a paralegal, where she worked closely with clients on financial and asset protection strategies—helping ensure their goals were met and their interests safeguarded. Her ability to bridge complex concepts with clear communication quickly made her a trusted advocate for clients.

Earlier in her career, Hannah also worked in government accounting, overseeing budgets and monitoring departmental purchases to ensure compliance and fiscal efficiency.

Hannah studied pre-law with a focus on public administration and policy at Purdue University Fort Wayne, where she was active in the National Honor Society and participated in volunteer work overseas.

Away from the office

Outside of work, Hannah enjoys a full and active schedule surrounded by loved ones. She can often be found relaxing by the lake or pool, or trying new restaurants and recipes. An advocate for balance and wellness, she stays active through yoga, Pilates, and walks with her dog, George.

Recently, Hannah and her boyfriend purchased their first home, where they’ve been bringing their creative visions to life through home and yard renovation projects—including a large vegetable garden she hopes will be as lush as her mom’s.

Focus and experience

Amber has accrued nearly two decades of experience in the securities industry.  She serves as the primary administrator for advisors David Fortmeyer and Timothy Ream.  In addition to being detail-and client-focused, Amber’s professional knowledge and effervescent personality make her an extraordinary client associate.

Background and credentials

Amber earned her Bachelor of Science in Business from Indiana University-Purdue University in 2006.  While the majority of her professional career has been in the securities industry, she previously worked as a logistics intern at General Electric and as a pharmacy technician for several years.

Away from the office

Amber loves spending time with her husband, Dave, who she’s been married to since 2012.  They have one daughter, Jillian.  Amber likes to bake with her daughter and create new and interesting confections.  She and her husband also like to relax while watching movies, tasting new wine, and exploring new restaurants together.  Amber has a passion for being involved in her local community, volunteering for Junior Achievement, and assisting at her daughter’s school as time permits. 

Focus and experience

Courtney plays a fundamental role in the daily operations of Optare Financial Partners. She provides a broad array of assistance to clients, varying from daily communications to completing administrative requests. She is committed to ensuring a seamless experience for each client she encounters.

She has a passion for finding effective solutions for any challenge she faces. Her compassion for people is evident through the exceptional service she provides to clients every day.

Background and credentials

Courtney brings over a decade of customer service experience to the branch, with half of her time being spent directly in the finance industry.

Courtney holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in business administration. Her experiences bring a unique blend of interpersonal skills and business expertise she utilizes while assisting clients in navigating their financial journeys.

Away from the office

Courtney and her husband Jason share four energetic children together, ranging in age from six to sixteen. Completing their family dynamic are their two entertaining dogs, Brutus & Harley. Courtney and Jason cherish time spent together watching their children play sports, achieve their goals, and pursue their passions.
 
If they manage to find any downtime, they enjoy spending it together exploring new places, attending concerts, or finding new car shows to visit.

Focus and experience

Moriah brings more than a decade of well-rounded financial industry experience to the practice and currently leads the branch’s operational and administrative processes. Often the welcoming presence of the office, Moriah strives to create a positive experience for the individuals she supports on a daily basis.

Background and credentials

In 2012, Moriah started in the financial services industry working in Credit Customer Service for Wells Fargo Bank in Oregon. U.S. Bank then recruited Moriah to work as a collection’s specialist.

Feeling called to serve her community, Moriah shifted her attention to the mental health field where she focused on community outreach and social services. Two years later, however, opportunity redirected her back to the financial services industry, and in 2019 she started her tenure with Wells Fargo Advisors at an office in Battle Creek, Michigan.

Today, Moriah is one of our most important assets at Optare Financial Partners, thanks to her varied experience, positive attitude, and passion.

Away from the office

Moriah’s top priority is spending quality time with her family, especially her two daughters, Rylan and Zaylah. Having now lived in Fort Wayne for four years and recently purchased her first home, she enjoys putting down roots in the community. You will often find her exploring the city – whether it’s a Saturday morning farmers market, discovering new restaurants, or enjoying the live music scene. Moriah and her family also love traveling together, with Universal Studios Orlando being one of their favorite destinations. When she isn’t with her family or finding culinary inspiration, she is probably with her Blue Heeler, Zero.