BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Describing his achievements as “immeasurable” and a “true visionary” for credit unions, CUNA President/CEO Dan Mica led off the tributes late Monday for Gary B. Wolter, the retiring president/CEO of the Alabama Credit Union League, who is stepping down next year after 42 years on the job.

“His guidance and advice have been invaluable and his legacy will stand tall over the credit union movement for many years to come,” said Mica in commenting on the planned departure of the “dean” of state league managers who leaves the organization in the summer of 2009.

The head of the American Association of Credit Union Leagues, Susan Newton, executive director, said Wolter's contributions to the system “are enormous” considering he “has played a leadership role in practically every system issue or initiative over the past 40-plus years.”

Officials of the league said Wolter's office has received “hundreds of e-mails” since the announcement was formally made on CUNA's Web site. As indicative of his dedication, it was noted that Wolter left late today for Costa Rica on a World Council of Credit Unions jaunt where later this week he will gather with CU leaders in the Central American country as well as meet with the president of Costa Rica.