As we celebrate Altana’s 75th anniversary, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our amazing volunteer board of directors. Their dedication and commitment have been instrumental in shaping our credit union into what it is today. To mark this special milestone, we’re excited to introduce you to each volunteer board member. Meet Greg Erpenbach!
Let’s start with the words that guide your life’s philosophy.
“Learning is an endless journey in life. Learning is a curiosity to know more about our own life and the lives of others around us. Learning is about improving life for all of us (people helping people). One important aspect of learning is understanding the question. The better one understands the question, the better the answer will be.”
You’ve been a dedicated Altana and Mountain States F.C.U. member since 1970. What can you tell us about that time?
Yes! I joined both on March 30, 1970. The average price of a car in 1970 was $3,500. My first car purchase was a 1968 Chevy Malibu for $2,000. It was my first credit union loan.
You’ve served on our volunteer Board of Directors for 30 years! What inspired you to join?
In 1992, after graduating from Eastern Montana College with a B.S. in Accounting, I saw an opportunity to fill a board position at Mountain States F.C.U. when my aunt retired. I wanted to learn more about credit unions, how they improve access to financial services, and how they improve the financial well-being of the employees that I worked with.
What changes have you seen in Billings since moving here in 1964?
Downtown Billings used to be the main shopping area. 24th Street was the West End, and West Park Plaza was the first and only shopping mall, all when Willard Fraser was the mayor. I have since retired in 2020 after 27 years as the Facilities Superintendent for Yellowstone County.
Where do you go when you need to recharge?
If we’re staying in town: Lake Elmo. I enjoy walking and viewing the wildlife there. My wife, Willeen, and I love driving to Red Lodge for a quick getaway!
What’s your best financial advice?
Join a credit union!
Greg, thank you for your remarkable 30 years of dedicated service on our volunteer board! Your commitment and contributions have significantly enhanced our organization and the financial well-being of our members. We are deeply grateful for your unwavering support and invaluable insights.
