Retired TS Bank leader Judy Guttau was recently honored for her impact on banking and the broader community by receiving 2023 Ovation recognition from the Iowa Women’s Foundation.
The annual statewide program allows family members colleagues, community members or friends to nominate a woman or girl to honor. Considered a key part of the growth of Treynor, Iowa-based TS Bank, Guttau retired last year after a 43-year career. She and her husband, Mick Guttau, worked together for decades. Mick purchased the bank in 1978, and Judy joined a year later. She became board secretary in 1980.
During her career, Judy planned and hosted employee parties, gave away gag gifts and sang “The 12 Days of Christmas.” During the early years of the bank, Judy played a key role in the bank’s community work through bank fairs, creating handmade posters to mark athletic accomplishments, and involvement in school and community parades. In 1988, Mick and Judy started a Statesman’s Club, which sponsored social events and travel and educational opportunities.
“Steadfast, genuine, perseverance and tenacity are words to describe Judy’s approach to work, family and life,” TS Bank stated. “During her tenure, she planned and hosted over 500 educational, social and public relations events for the Statesman’s Club, clients and employees. She also serves in numerous organizations focused on education, faith and community development.”