Staff Reports
The Bank of Missouri will celebrate the upcoming retirement of R. David Crader from the day-to-day operations. After 44 years in the banking industry, Crader will retire at the end of 2018.
A community banker since 1980, Crader has led what was then The Bank of Perryville for 22 years.
While Crader will retire from the bank's day-to-day operations effective Dec. 31, he will continue serving the bank as Non-Executive Chairman and President of the holding company, Reliable Community Bancshares, Inc. His focus will be on shareholder relations and acquisitions. The Bank's shareholder base has more than tripled in the time Crader has been with The Bank.
"It has been a pleasure coming to work every day and walking through the doors expecting to make a difference in someone's life, or to be a positive contributor to our communities," Crader said. "You will find a quote under the glass on my desk which reads, 'Passion for your job; Compassion for those you serve.' I believe passion and compassion for serving are vital for life, and I am extremely grateful and blessed for all the wonderful people I have had the opportunity to work with and serve throughout my career."
In his 22 years with The Bank, Crader led it from a single location with $80 million in assets to 35 locations with $1.7 billion in assets, and nearly 500 employees. His vision was to expand the bank in communities with growth potential. That has resulted in operations in 25 communities throughout Missouri.
His professional service has included numerous board memberships while his civic service includes community chambers of commerce, industrial development boards, Saint Francis Healthcare System and the Teen Challenge Midwest and USA boards. Southeast Missouri State University has recognized his contributions by granting him The Distinguished Award in 2005, the Southeast Missouri State University Alumni Merit Award in 2007, and The Paul Harris Fellow Rotarian Award in 2011. His lifetime of service was recognized when he was named a recipient of the Missourian Award in 2015 for outstanding citizenship and impact on community and state.
Adrian Breen, current chief executive officer and president, will continue leading the day-to-day operations of the bank.
"It has been more than two years since I stepped down from my role as chief executive officer and handed that mantle to Adrian Breen. He is doing a great job, and I am confident that will continue as I focus solely on my new role," Crader said.
Said Breen, "I would like to personally congratulate David Crader on a remarkable banking career. David has developed and established The Bank of Missouri and has put the foundation in place that enables us to continue to grow and service our great communities. David's commitment to community involvement, leadership and passion for banking has set the bar high for future bankers in the state of Missouri and beyond."