The credit union community is mourning the loss ofDan Plauda, who retired less than two years ago after a longand laudable career with the Illinois Credit Union League.

The 69-year-old Plauda, who served as the league's president/CEOfor two decades, passed away over the weekend, the Illinois leagueannounced in a statement Monday.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Dan's family and friends asthey deal with this unexpected loss. Dan was a leader for manyyears in the credit union industry – across the country [and]Illinois – as well as a mentor and friend to many of us,” IllinoisCredit Union League President/CEO TomKane said. “He hired me nearly 13 years ago and alwaysimpressed me as a smart, big-hearted, pragmatic and decisive leaderwith a great sense of humor and perspective on the challenges ofrunning a successful league and national service corporation.”