The League is saddened to share the news of Patricia Wesenberg's passing on February 12 after an extended illness. Patricia was the President/CEO of Simplicity Credit Union, having begun her credit union career in 1981, and was also involved in The Credit Union Movement at the state and national level for many years, including serving as board chair for CUNA and the National Credit Union Foundation.
"Pat had a remarkable career, but for me personally, what set her apart is the impact she had on the people around her," reflected The League's President & CEO Brett Thompson. "Her colleagues at the credit union put it this way-'Pat was a light in the world, and, even in the darkest times, she had a way of making us all feel special, heard, and respected.' There was no better way to describe her, and her loss is deeply felt by us all."
Additionally, CUNA President/CEO Jim Nussle added, “Pat was an inspiration to generations of credit union leaders through her unceasing dedication to financial equality. The credit union movement is stronger because of her leadership at the local, state, and national levels. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends, as well as the many credit union leaders around the world that benefitted from knowing her.”
Simplicity has released a statement on what Pat meant to their team. An excerpt from it reads: "Pat was a lifelong Servant Leader, Mentor, Friend, and Ally whose tireless dedication inspired everyone who was blessed to meet her."
A Celebration of Pat's life will be held, by her family, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, her family has asked for donations to be made to The United Way. In addition, movement leaders in Wisconsin have expressed interest in creating a scholarship fund in Pat’s name through the Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation. More details will follow.