BANGOR – Dennis “Don” Soucy retired as the chairman of the board of directors for Bangor Federal Credit Union on March 16. He had held that position since the formation of the credit union in 1956.

Robert P. Welch was named the new chairman on March 16.

As an original founding member of St. John’s Federal Credit Union in Bangor, Soucy guided the credit union through many changes, from its start in the basement of St. John’s Catholic Church to its first public office on Harlow Street; from its ledger accounting books to today’s high-tech database systems; from a small 25-member credit union of fellow St. John’s parishioners to a more than 14,000-member credit union serving those who live, work or worship in Penobscot County.

What many outside the world of credit unions may not know is that all credit union board positions are volunteer; the time and commitment requisite to being chairman of the board of directors is unpaid.

Steve Clark, president and CEO of Bangor Federal Credit Union said, “The members and staff of Bangor Federal Credit Union, as well as all associated with the credit union movement in Maine, owe Don a debt of gratitude. In this day and age, Don’s type of dedication as a volunteer will rarely be repeated.”

Soucy is not only a familiar presence at Bangor Federal Credit Union. He has been involved in numerous civic activities over the years. Some of his former activities include Bangor City Council, Bangor mayor, board chairman of the Maine Credit Union League and St. John’s Catholic Church.

A lifelong member of Bangor Federal Credit Union, Welch has been on the credit union’s supervisory committee and board for nearly 25 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine at Augusta and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va.

Welch is the executive director of the Gambling Control Board for the state of Maine and is pursuing a master’s degree at Husson College. He retired from the Bangor Police Department as deputy chief after serving 25 years with the department.

Rounding out the credit union’s table officers are Jeff Cammack, vice chairman; Jack Collins, treasurer; and Mary Lou Armes, secretary.