Legacy
We have proudly served the Grand Rapids area for over 110 years.
Welcome to Grand Rapids State Bank.
At Grand Rapids State Bank, we pride ourselves on unparalleled service. Founded on four generations, we are a family-owned bank that has proudly served the Grand Rapids area for more than 110 years. The experience, the expertise and the work ethic of the Grand Rapids State Bank staff are unrivaled in our area. As a multi-generational team, we are able to recognize and appreciate your needs no matter what stage of life you are in. We live, work, breath and play in Grand Rapids and the arrowhead and understand the needs of our neighbors, families and businesses. Let our family help yours!
Warba State Bank
From 1914 Charter to Family Business
The original Warba State Bank was chartered on June 12, 1914. Claude C. Wilcox joined the Warba State Bank in 1918 and purchased it in 1920. Claude and his wife, the former Cecilia Westurn, were the only employees.
Claude C. Wilcox inside the Warba State Bank
Warba Bank Becomes Grand Rapids State Bank
In the fall of 1936, the charter of the Warba State Bank was changed to the Grand Rapids State Bank and the bank was moved to Grand Rapids, the Itasca County seat. At the time of the move, bank assets were $124,500. After temporarily working in a storefront in the Kenler building, Claude moved the bank into its new Grand Rapids location on First Avenue Northwest, a building which was approximately 25 by 50 feet.
Claude’s wife Cecilia Westurn
Second Generation Joins Grand Rapids State Bank
Following five years of service in the U.S. Navy, Claude’s son, Clair C. Wilcox, joined the bank in March 1947. At that time, total assets were $2,000,000. A planned expansion was postponed due to the death of Claude in January 1950. In 1953, an additional 25-foot expansion was added.
Grand Rapids State Bank on First Avenue Northwest
Century-Old Bank Passes to Fourth Generation in 2007
Clair built the new Downtown Office, and the bank moved into its new home on First Avenue Northwest north of the U.S. Post Office on August 24, 1970. At the time of the move, total assets were $14,000,000. Clair’s sons, Steve and Craig, joined the bank in the early 1970’s.
Noah, Clair’s grandson joined the bank and senior management in 1999 and became the fourth generation to lead the bank in 2007 when he assumed the role of President and CEO.
Grand Rapids State Bank on First Avenue Northwest north of the Post Office
Family Banking Meets Modern Convenience
During his tenure, Noah has been instrumental in leveraging technology to create operational efficiencies and delivery conveniences for bank customers. Noah re-branded the family business and restructured some of the delivery methods. Under his direction, internet banking was brought to the customer base in 2000, electronic statements were made available in 2004 and remote deposit in 2007 along with mobile banking services.
Noah worked to re-align several internal reporting lines to create a more responsive environment for customers. Bank management is focused heavily on providing unrivaled service to our customers.
Noah Wilcox, Clair’s grandson