COLUMBUS — Karl Hill, whose career spanned 35 years at The First State Bank of Columbus, died suddenly at his home in Columbus on May 22 at the age of 58.
Hill’s many positions at the bank that began in 1988 included titles such as loan officer, executive offi - cer, director and president. He passed away while serving as the CEO and Chairman of the Board of the family- owned banking business.
Hill was not just in the banking business; he lived the banking business. His banking business knowledge he accumulated over the years helped drive the bank to grow with the changing times. His employees were like his family, raising children, spending holidays together and making lifelong friends.
His faith in God was strong and he passed this on to his children, who attended Saint Anthony Catholic Church and the Saint Anthony Catholic School. He was an active member of the Columbus Rotary Club and past Columbus Community Hospital board member.
The First State Bank of Columbus opened for business in 1913 in the Stafford Bank Building. In 1916, the bank moved its operations to the Simpson Building located where it stands today. Through the years the bank grew and prospered along with the community.
In 1976, E.G. Miller, a board chair died and Allan Hill was elected Chairman of the Board and CEO with Gus Miller, Jr. elected as President. In 1989, The First State Bank was listed as the number one U.S. Community Bank in the nation.
Hill wore many hats in the bank, but moved to president in 1999.
He was elected CEO as of April 2009, where he held that position until his death.
For more information on Hill and his life, see his obituary on page 11.
