30 Year Anniversary | Cypress Bank & Trust

Since 1996, Cypress Bank & Trust has stood beside our clients, families, and communities, guiding financial journeys with integrity and care.

Our story isn’t just told in years, it’s told through people.

Thirty years is more than a milestone. It’s the clients we’ve served for generations. The teammates who chose to build their careers here. The moments we stood together as a community. Because at Cypress, relationships always come first.

A legacy of trust & growth.

THESE ARE A FEW OF THE STORIES THAT DEFINE WHO WE ARE.

Relationships Take Root

A PLACE WORTH STAYING

After 35 years in the trust investment business, John George was ready to retire. Then came a call from a former colleague who had joined Cypress. He decided to give it a try, and never looked back. What was meant to be retirement turned into 15 years of meaningful work and confidence that his clients were in capable hands.

Culture You Can Feel

A LIFETIME OF IMPACT

Long before it became a phrase, “rooted in relationships” was what Cypress lived by. During his time as President and CEO, Bill Helmly watched teams step up for one another, with client service guiding every decision.. Over time, that shared commitment shaped a culture defined by trust, pride, and a clear sense of purpose. Ten years into retirement, that spirit stays with Bill.

Stronger Together

A FINANCIAL CRISIS WITHOUT LAYOFFS

When the Great Financial Crisis brought uncertainty to the industry, many institutions responded with layoffs and cutbacks. Cypress chose a different path. The team shared the sacrifice, reducing pay so every employee could remain. No one left. No one complained. By standing together, employees and clients weathered the storm and built bonds that remain strong today.

Growing Forward

A CONTINUED JOURNEY

Over 14 years at Cypress, Anita Calabro has seen the organization continually evolve to meet the needs of its clients. From trust services to comprehensive banking, credit, and financial planning, each step forward has expanded how Cypress can serve its community. Today, Cypress is positioned for continued growth, ready to support clients at every stage of life.

Built to Last

A LOCAL VISION, 30 YEARS STRONG

He believes strong organizations are built on shared purpose and consistency. During his time leading the trust company, Phil Young saw teams navigate challenges together while staying grounded in service and accountability. A major facilities crisis became a turning point that strengthened collaboration and improved the organization. That experience reinforced a culture that continues to define Cypress today.

Leading Through Change

A CHAPTER OF GROWTH AND TRANSFORMATION

Thom Wolek brought a regulatory background shaped by integrity and collaboration. Early on, he saw a team culture built on ownership and shared responsibility. A serious facilities issue led to a coordinated relocation that improved working conditions and strengthened the organization. That moment highlighted how cooperation drives lasting organizational strength.

Rooted in Consistency

A 20+ YEAR JOURNEY OF TRUST AND GROWTH

He joined with a strong belief in relationship-driven, purpose-led work. Over two decades, Brian Skarbek has seen Cypress grow through change while staying consistent in its client focus. That consistency has always been anchored in trust, authenticity, and shared accountability. It continues to shape both his experience and the organization’s identity.

“Quote from Dana. Past reflections & vision for the future”

Dana Kilborne
CEO and President
Cypress Bank & Trust

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