It is with a sad heart that I relay the news of the passing of Jim Dolister, Capitol Bank’s founding President, following a 4-month battle with Leukemia.
In 1995, following a distinguished banking career, Jim embarked on the burdensome task of starting a bank. With the help of a committed group of organizing directors, Jim raised $5 million dollars and opened the doors of Capitol Bank with the goal of providing high quality, tailored bank services to individuals and businesses in Dane County. His vision was to create a bank that valued people and relationships. Jim embraced a culture built upon the principles of respect, honesty and integrity. He believed that if you treat customers the way you would want to be treated, the Bank would thrive. There were tough times along the way but Jim always persevered and in no time his ideals attracted a strong and loyal customer base. Under Jim’s guiding principles, the Bank has grown to $350 million in assets and that original $5 million in capital has grown to over $35 million.
Jim was a favorite of the employees. In his later years, he played the role of resident grandfather and they loved him for it. Jim would take new hires to lunch to give them his vision of the Bank and how to treat customers. And he loved to listen, which was one of his strengths. Jim was such a strong supporter of our team and we will miss him dearly.
As a testament to Jim’s positive influence on the employees and customers of Capitol Bank, we have decided to rename the board room “The Dolister Board Room”. It’s comforting to know that Jim’s spirit will provide positive guidance to the Bank’s future decision makers.
We are forever indebted to Jim for all the sacrifices he made to make Capitol Bank great. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Ken Thompson
President & CEO, Capitol Bank
