ONTARIO, Calif.–One of the most influential leaders in U.S. credit union history has died.
Bill Broxterman, whose career in credit unions spanned a half century, passed away on July 30
“Bill’sdedication and contributions to the credit union movement were immeasurable, and his passing leaves behind a void that will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him,” the California and Nevada Credit Union League’s said in a statement.
After leaving the Navy, Broxterman’s career in credit unions began in 1954 when he joined the Tennessee Credit Union League, where he played a “pivotal role in organizing numerous credit unions, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals and their communities,” the leagues said. “His passion for credit unions extended far beyond his professional life, as he worked tirelessly to promote the ideals and values of the cooperative movement.”
Positions Across the Country
Broxterman’s career in credit unions would include work in not just Tennessee, but Wisconsin, Texas, South Carolina (where he was league president) and California, where he became president/CEO of the California Credit Union League in 1974.
Broxterman joined CUNA in 1957 in Madison, Wis. to work as an organizational specialist at a time credit unions were still be actively chartered in efforts led by state associations. He also worked in Washington under then CUNA CEO Herb Wegner as executive vice president and was part of the Washington office at the time what is now the trade group’s Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) was started.
Broxterman also started the Credit Union Legislative Action Committee (CULAC).
‘Tremendous Growth’
“Under his leadership, the league saw tremendous growth in affiliation and established critical services for its members,” the California and Nevada leagues said.
While at the California league he launched Western Corporate FCU (Wescorp) and what is now Co-op Financial Services.
Broxterman also served on the CUNA Mutual Board from 1982-2000.
Broxterman left the league and was president and CEO of Hughes Aircraft Employees FCU for eight years, before becoming interim CEO at USA FCU (where the president had been killed in an accident), and as interim CEO at 1st United Services CU in California.
In 2005, Broxterman retired to Georgia.
‘Mentor & Inspiration’
“Beyond his professional achievements, Bill was a mentor and inspiration to many in the credit union community,” the leagues said. “His willingness to face challenges head-on, even in the face of adversity, speaks volumes about his character and determination. Bill was not only a credit union professional but also a compassionate and caring individual who always put his family first.”
‘Celebrate the Legacy’
Added Diana Dykstra, president and CEO of the California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues, “While we mourn the loss of this remarkable individual, we also celebrate his legacy, one filled with passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the credit union movement. The impact he made on the lives of credit union members and the industry as a whole will continue to resonate for generations to come.”