MARSHFIELD, Wis.– Patricia Wesenberg, who stepped aside as president/CEO of Simplicity Credit Union in October of 2020 to deal with health-related issues, has died.
Wesenberg was known to many in credit unions for her long career and for serving in both state and national CU organizations, including being named chair of the National Credit Union Foundation in January of 2020.
In a touching tribute posted on the $340-million CU’s website, Simplicity CU said, “Pat was a lifelong servant leader, mentor, friend, and ally whose tireless dedication inspired everyone who was blessed to meet her.”
Wesenberg joined what was then called Central City Credit Union in 1981 and was named president and CEO in 1994.
“Her list of personal and professional accolades is lengthy and diverse. She held leadership roles in local, state, national, and international credit union organizations and volunteered countless hours in the community,” the credit union said. “Pat was a model of humility and humanity and would balk at us going on at length about her accomplishments.
‘Made Better’
“Instead, we believe it was more important to Pat to help others succeed. She demonstrated it in the work she did, the words of love and encouragement she shared, and the way she held us accountable to do the right thing, the best thing, every single day,” the credit union continued in its statement. “Those of us who were fortunate enough to learn the lesson of looking Pat in the eye when she asked, ‘What are we going to do now to...make sure this never happens again?’ have been made better and stronger for it.
“Though Pat’s journey on earth has come to an end, she lives on in the hearts and minds of those who knew her. If we can each choose to be just a small sliver of the light that she brought into the world, each day will be much brighter,” Simplicity CU said.
In addition to serving as NCUF chair, Wesenberg also served on the board and as chair of the Wisconsin Credit Union League and CUNA.
Simplicity CU said there will be a celebration of life announced at a later date and that in lieu of flowers donations should be made to United Way.