LATHAM, N.Y. -- The New York State Credit Union League is mourning the loss of New York State Credit Union Hall of Famer Anthony P. Bax, who died at the age of 90.
"The league notes with sadness the passing of longtime credit unionist Tony Bax," said William J. Mellin, president/CEO of NYSCUL. "He served credit unions with the same dedication and passion he gave to our country when he volunteered with the Navy during WWII. Our sincere condolences go out to Tony's family. He will be missed by all who knew him."
A 45-year credit union veteran, Bax had many accomplishments and is credited with saving a credit union.
In 1986, when sponsor Carbon Products closed its doors, regulators suggested that Greater Niagara Federal Credit Union locate a credit union to merge or look into liquidation. Serving as the credit union's board treasurer/manager, Bax instead recommended that the credit union try to go it alone, ultimately leading the effort to find office space and recruit new select employee groups. Today, the credit union has more than 5,000 members and assets of more than $18 million.
Bax was also influential at the chapter and state level. He joined the Niagara Chapter Council in 1976, where he served in a variety of positions, and was elected to the NYSCUL's board, serving on many of its committees during his tenure from 1991 to 2001.
His dedication to service helped him win many national credit union awards culminating in Bax's induction to the New York State Credit Union Hall of Fame in 2003.
Bax is survived by Anne, his wife of 71 years, daughter Sharon, four grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
--mdigiovanni@cutimes.com
