Valley First Credit Union mourns the passing of longtime Director Emeritus, Wesley Walter Hall
MODESTO, CALIF. (March 25, 2024) — It is with heavy hearts that Valley First Credit Union announces the passing of Wesley Walter Hall, a third-generation Californian, born on February 26, 1923, in Los Angeles. Wes embodied a life of unwavering dedication, service, and impact.
Wes’ journey led him through the challenges of World War II, where his commitment to duty saw him serve in the European Theatre. Post-war, he continued his education, graduating with Highest Honors from the College of the Pacific in 1949. His professional legacy spanned over three decades with Stanislaus County, contributing significantly to the community’s welfare. Wes was instrumental in the founding of the Stanislaus County Employees Retirement Association (StanCERA), leaving an indelible mark on its board from 1965 to 2010.
A tireless advocate for retirees, Wes served as President of the Retired Employees of Stanislaus County (RESCO) and later as President of the California Retired County Employees’ Association (CRCEA). His leadership ensured the well-being of retirees, championing benefits and rights.
Beyond county governance, Wes dedicated himself to numerous community organizations, leaving a lasting impact. He was an active member of the Exchange Club of Modesto, serving as Club President and District Governor. His commitment to youth welfare shone through the “Youth of the Year Program” and various educational initiatives. Wes’ love for community extended to his role as a founding member of the Modesto Swim and Racquet Club, a benefactor of the Modesto YMCA, and an active participant in SIR’s Branch 144 and the Old Fisherman Club.
However, in all of his service, Wes’s greatest love was Stanislaus County Federal Credit Union, today known as Valley First Credit Union. His involvement since 1950, first as a Credit Committee member and later as Board Chairman for an astonishing 50 years, was pivotal. Under Wes’ tenure as an active Director and Director Emeritus, Valley First Credit Union experienced unprecedented growth and transformation. From its humble beginnings operating out of a garage in a private home with assets of $30,000, Wes played a pivotal role in steering the Credit Union through many mergers and expansions. Today, Valley First Credit Union boasts assets exceeding one billion dollars, a testament to Wes’ enduring legacy of excellence and service.
“Wesley Walter Hall was not just a past Chairman or Director Emeritus; he was the heart and soul of Valley First Credit Union,” said Kathryn J Davis, CEO of Valley First Credit Union. “His leadership, wisdom, and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in shaping the Credit Union into what it is today. Wes leaves behind a profound legacy of service, integrity, and compassion that will continue to inspire us all.”
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the credit union movement, Wes was honored with the prestigious J. Alvin George Outstanding Volunteer Award from the California and Nevada Credit Union League during the REACH 2020 Conference.
Valley First Credit Union extends its deepest condolences to the Hall family during this difficult time. Wes’ memory will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
About Valley First Credit Union
Valley First Credit Union is a $1.02 billion, member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative providing quality financial services to 80,000 members in the growing and diverse communities of Calaveras, Fresno, Kings, Kern, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Sacramento, Tulare, and Tuolumne Counties. With eight branches throughout the central valley, the credit union is committed to banking with a purpose – to better the financial lives of the people and businesses in the communities we call home. For more information, please visit www.valleyfirstcu.org/.
