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The Michigan Credit Union Movement Remembers Anthony “Tony” Carnarvon

The Michigan Credit Union League is saddened to learn of the passing of Anthony “Tony” Carnarvon, a longtime credit union leader and former President and CEO of Zeal Credit Union.

Tony dedicated more than 35 years of service to the credit union movement, leading Zeal through a period of meaningful change and growth. He was widely respected for his steady leadership, principled approach and deep belief in the cooperative mission that defines credit unions.

During his tenure at Zeal, the credit union earned national recognition for financial strength. Tony often emphasized the importance of listening to members and delivering programs and services that helped people achieve their financial goals.

A longtime Downriver resident, Tony took great pride in his community roots. He was from Allen Park and remained a visible and enthusiastic supporter of local initiatives throughout his career. That connection was evident in the way he celebrated hard work and the people who make Michigan strong.

Tony retired from Zeal in 2019, concluding a distinguished career devoted to the credit union movement and the members served by it.

In addition to his role as a credit union executive, Tony played a significant leadership role at the statewide level. He served on the MCUL Board of Directors, including as Chair, and CUSG Board, helping guide both organizations during tumultuous economic years.

Julie Kreinbring, who succeded Tony as CEO of Zeal, reflected on his impact:

"Tony’s leadership in the credit union industry was rooted in genuine kindness and care for people. He was the kind of person you could always count on — ready to listen, ready to help and always bringing people together. He shared his time and knowledge so freely. He loved his excel spreadsheets. I’m grateful to have learned from him, and his impact will stay with us for a long time."

Dean Trudeau, CEO of Public Service Credit Union and current MCUL Board Chair, shared his thoughts on Tony’s leadership and friendship:

“Tony was more than a respected leader — he was a peer, a friend and a steadfast champion of the credit union movement in Michigan. He led with passion and integrity, and his leadership strengthened not only his credit union, but the broader movement we all care so deeply about.”

Trudeau also shared that Tony’s credit union stewardship was shaped by a deep family legacy in the movement and by relationships built over years of collaboration, conversation and shared purpose.

Dave Adams, CEO of CUSO Edge and former CEO of MCUL, echoed those sentiments:

“Tony was the best of the best. Humble, principled, kind, authentic and passionate. A true friend and a great servant leader. A devoted family man. He led as MCUL Chair during Michigan's toughest economic times, and he knew how to empower and trust, while being appropriately prepared and watchful. As a chapter and League leader, he treated everyone with equal kindness and respect. Tony will be remembered as a treasured friend and impactful leader.”

MCUL CEO Patty Corkery also reflected on Tony’s presence:

“Tony was retiring when I joined MCUL, so I didn’t have the opportunity to work with him closely. However, whenever I interacted with him over the years, he was always surrounded by friends and quick to laugh and raise his hand. Those of us at MCUL and CUSG who worked with Tony remember him fondly, and while we are saddened by his passing, we will always remember the impact he had on Michigan’s credit union industry.”

MCUL extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and all who were touched by his life and leadership.

 

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