Dozens gathered April 1 in Burton and Middlefield to mark the merger of Geauga Credit Union into 7 17 Credit Union, a move officials said will expand services while maintaining local relationships.
Dozens gathered April 1 in Burton and Middlefield to mark the merger of Geauga Credit Union into 7 17 Credit Union, a move officials said will expand services while maintaining local relationships.
Ribbon-cutting ceremonies were held at the Burton Village branch on North Cheshire Street and the Middlefield Village branch on West High Street.
At both events, 7 17 management greeted employees, some of whom have worked for Geauga Credit Union for many years.
Public officials, including Middlefield Village Mayor Ben Garlich, Geauga County Commissioners and a representative from U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce’s office, attended to show support for the merger.
“This is about more than growth. It’s about people,” said 7 17 CEO John Demmler. “While our reach is expanding, we’re keeping what matters most at the forefront: personal relationships, a member-first commitment and a focus on building a stronger community.”
Barbara Titus, a 12-year member of the Geauga Credit Union board of directors and its former president, said the credit union was founded in 1956 to serve Geauga County school employees and later merged with Maple Leaf Credit Union in 1990.
Over time, GCU expanded its membership to individuals who live or work in Geauga, Ashtabula, Portage and Trumbull counties, ultimately serving 6,500 members with assets exceeding $108 million, according to a press release from Abigail Cloutier, 7 17 director of communications.
As membership grew, the credit union relocated three times before constructing its North Cheshire Street building in 2008, Titus said during the Burton ceremony.
“In 2024, we opened a Geauga Credit Union branch in Middlefield and it’s been very, very successful for us,” she told the crowd, adding the board decided to reach out for a partner.
“7 17 quickly rose to the top,” she said.
Titus said 7 17 staff have worked alongside employees in Burton and Middlefield, sharing knowledge and learning about the local Amish community, she said.
“Change is not easy and we thank (the 7 17 staff) from the bottom of our hearts,” Titus said.
Garlich said 7 17 has a strong reputation for community involvement.
“I’m very excited to welcome 7 17 to our community,” he said via text. “I know by reviewing their corporate history and business model, they become very engaged and supportive of the communities they serve. I look forward to partnering with them, going forward, to support our residents and community.”
The 7 17 Credit Union mascot, Dollar Dog, attended both events as part of the organization’s youth financial education program.
Garlich said the credit union is also planning to partner with local schools.
“They have already been planning a youth financial boot camp for Cardinal students this summer and will expand into regular classes in the 2026-2027 school year,” he said. “I feel it will bring so much value to educating our youth on principals for financial success.”
Demmler spoke about the culture of 7 17 and the future of the merged organizations.
“When our credit unions merge, it will be all one family. Folks will continue to work and serve the Geauga community,” he said. “This is a tremendous commitment and I recognize the board members of the Geauga Credit Union for their incredible foresight and guidance that has led us here, today.”
