At Minster Bank, we have nine employees who have stayed with us for more than 30 years. Hear firsthand from them why they chose Minster Bank and why they have never left.

When we think about company culture, what comes to mind? Wages, benefits, and workplace flexibility often top the list. Digging deeper, we might consider relationships between employees or a shared mission. However, one essential element is frequently overlooked: the customer.

At Minster Bank, the customer is at the core of everything we do. “After all,” says Dave Kelch, New Bremen Branch Manager, “We are a community bank.” For 36 years, Dave’s focus has been on service. “My coworkers lead by example with servant leadership, and I strive to do the same.” Prioritizing service over sales has proven to be a win-win for everyone.

“The right thing for the customer is the right thing for the bank. They’re the ones that keep the lights on in here.”

“I truly believe that what’s best for the customer is best for the bank,” Dave continues. “It sometimes requires sacrifice, but it’s always the right choice in the long run.” But service isn’t just about sacrifice. “It’s incredibly fulfilling. My interactions with coworkers and customers have shaped who I am today.”

Treating customers like family is key to serving them well. Kathy Sampson, who has been with the bank for 37 years, embodies this approach. “I care about each of our customers and their dreams. Our relationship associates share that same care. We know them, their children, and even their grandchildren.” As the St. Mary’s Branch Manager, Kathy has fostered an environment of patience and support. “My favorite thing is helping someone achieve their dreams. We don’t leave anyone behind. There’s nothing like celebrating with them when they qualify for the loan they need!”

“It’s always been about family to me. I care so much about my coworkers, and my customers. I call them my ‘work family’, and I mean it. Minster Bank doesn’t overlook anyone.”

Kathy recalls a personal story that highlights the bank’s family-like culture. After an accident, her coworkers rushed to the hospital, even beating her own family there. “When the doctor asked who they were, I said, ‘My family!’ That’s truly how we feel about each other. In today’s world, it’s rare to find such a strong sense of family and work ethic like we have at Minster Bank.”

Pat Loyer, a relationship associate who has worked alongside Kathy in St. Mary’s for 33 years, echoes this sentiment. “My customers and coworkers are why I come to work every day,” she shares. “We laugh together, cry together, pray for each other, and even rush to the hospital for each other’s emergencies.” For Pat, being there to listen and connect with customers is central to her role. “We don’t just handle money here. We spend time with people. We listen, chat, and comfort them when they need it. At the bank, we’re all like family.”

“I’ve seen generations of the same family pass through this institution. It’s a beautiful thing and I’m grateful to be a part of it.”

Sometimes, we have to say goodbye to our customers. One older gentleman who loved visiting our branch would often bring cookies, and on Valentine’s Day, chocolates. He banked with us since the branch opened. As he grew older, it became harder for him to visit, and we missed him dearly. When he passed away, we attended his funeral to pay our respects. His family greeted us, saying, “We’ve been watching for you.” They had placed a Minster Bank pen in his shirt pocket—a touching tribute to our years of friendship. It brought us all to tears.

It’s moments like these that remind us why we do what we do. We serve the community because we are part of it. Our mission is to provide products and services that meet your needs while promoting the growth and development of our communities. As Dave Kelch says, “The customer is the priority. After all, they keep the lights on here.”

Take a deeper dive into the company culture at Minster Bank by reading about some of our other longest tenured employees.