ABNB FCU is sad to announce the passing of a member of the ABNB family. Captain Richard J. Losea, USCG Retired, a member of the board of directors and long-time credit union advocate, died on Tuesday, May 29, 2018.
Chairwoman Mary Ann Melchers stated “There are no words that appropriately express how grateful we here at ABNB are for the work and friendship Rich gave us. All we can say is thank you and knowing you has been our privilege.”
Rich had been a credit union member for 47 years and a volunteer for 23 years. Rich was an extremely active leader within the credit union movement. He was honored to be recognized by many industry organizations for his staunch advocacy of credit union issues.
In September 2017, Rich was awarded the Paul Revere Award at the NAFCU Congressional Caucus where Mr. Dan Berger, President of NAFCU, stated “Rich has tirelessly worked to improve the regulatory landscape for credit unions. His commitment to advancing credit unions’ legislative and regulatory initiatives is unwavering and his dedication to our industry is outstanding.”
Capt. Losea joined the Coast Guard Fifth District Federal Credit Union in 1971 when he was a young Coast Guard Lieutenant J. G., commanding the USCGC Point Arena, then based at Little Creek Amphibious Base, Virginia. He remained a loyal member of the credit union as he moved about the country in his Coast Guard career. Throughout Rich’s 23 years as a credit union volunteer, he served on the board of Guardian FCU; serving as Chairman of the Board for eleven years. Following Guardian FCU’s successful merger with ABNB FCU in 2014, Rich continued to serve as a board member and Treasurer.
President and CEO Charles Mallon stated “Rich epitomized the phrase ‘An Officer and A Gentleman’. Rich believed deeply in our credit union mission, proudly served his country as a career US Coast Guard officer and most importantly never failed to express his everlasting love for his family.”