New York Credit Union Hall of Fame member Nino Montani died on Nov. 17 at the age of 90, the Credit Union Association of New York announced on Tuesday.

The Niagara Falls resident has been involved in the credit union movement since he helped lead the 1952 creation of Hooker Employees FCU, now the $78 million, 14,000-member Niagara's Choice FCU. 

Montani was the credit union's treasurer for 25 years and also served in other board positions, including president. He stepped down from the board earlier this year and was unanimously elected to the newly created position of director emeritus.

On the state level, he served as president of the Niagara Chapter and on the CUANY board and was inducted into the hall of fame in 2002.

“Nino dedicated a great measure of his life to the betterment of credit unions, and he made a lasting impact on our statewide movement,” said William J. Mellin, CUANY president/CEO.

“He will be missed by many—including those of us at the Association who had the pleasure of knowing him,” Mellin said.

A decorated staff sergeant as an Army sergeant in World War II, Montani is survived by Mary, his wife, of 65 years, three children, five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, the league said.