ST. JOSEPH, Mich. — The movement has lost a venerable leader.David Weichhand, president/CEO of United Federal Credit Union, diedunexpectedly on Oct. 29, 2006 from natural causes at the age of50.

Weichhand's 27-year career with the $498 million CU includedassistant manager of support services, branch manager of theMarion, Ohio branch, and vice president of member services. He hadserved as president/CEO of United FCU since November 1988. On Oct.1, 2006, Weichhand led the former First Resource Federal CreditUnion to successfully complete a merger with United Federal CreditUnion. The CU now serves more than 51,000 members.

The industry veteran served at all levels in the movementincluding on CUES' Financial Operations Advisory Committee and asthe organization's Michigan counsel officer. Weichhand was also amember of the UltraData Systems CEO Forum, a founding member of theTechnology Research Consortium, and he served on the AlliedSolutions Advisory Board. At the Michigan Credit Union League, heserved on both the executive committee and the governmental affairscommittee.

Duane Nelson, executive vice president of member services, isnow serving as interim CEO. The CU said it is currently conductinga national search for a permanent CEO.

“As a leader, professional, community supporter, friend,churchman, and family man, Dave will be missed greatly. We mournour loss. But we are confident and committed to ensure that hislegacy will live on,” the CU said.

Weichhand is survived by his wife Beth, and four adult children,Sarah, Becky, Laura and Josh. –[email protected]