PORTLAND, Ore. — Longtime leader of OnPoint Community Credit Union (formerly Portland Teachers Credit Union) Morris P. McElwee has died at the age of 79 from complications from Guillan-Barre syndrome.
Over his 24-year career at the credit union, McElwee's contributions to its growth were extensive. In February, 1963 "Mac" was appointed treasurer-manager of PTCU beginning a long period of increases in membership, deposits and the addition of a new main branch at N.E. 9th & Broadway.
By 1968, assets grew by more than $2 million and membership topped 16,000. Expansion continued throughout the 60s and by the end of the decade, the credit union had become a $15 million financial institution with 23,000 members. Growth had been tremendous and assets had nearly tripled in 10 years.
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Under McElwee's leadership in the 1970s, all records for growth of assets, members and loans were surpassed. Nearing the close of the decade, membership had doubled to 46,765 and assets stood at $71 million.
By the time "Mac" retired, the credit union's assets stood at $138,698,714 and loans were $88,908,427. Today, OnPoint Community CU is the state's largest with $2.3 billion in assets and 180,000 members.
"I didn't have the opportunity to work with Mr. McElwee," said OnPoint President/CEO Rob Stuart. "However, from all I've learned, it was his foresight, innovation and leadership that helped our credit union make tremendous strides during the 60s and 70s and put us on the path to the success we enjoy today."
McElwee also found time to serve as president of the Oregon Credit Union League and was involved in the founding and preservation of Tryon Creek Park.
He is survived by his wife Loeta; son Kevin and wife Judy; son Michael and wife Kathryn; and 11 grandchildren.
Remembrances to honor McElwee may be made to Albertina Kerr Centers or Loaves & Fishes Centers.
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