Rockville Bank chief McGurk to retire

Long-time Rockville Bank Chief Executive Officer William J. "Bill'' McGurk and his top lieutenant are retiring from the Vernon lender within the next two years.

McGurk, 67, said today he will exit at the April 2011 annual meeting, ending what by then will be a 31-year run at the banking company's top spot. Disclosing his planned departure now, McGurk said in a statement , gives the bank plenty of time to search inside and outside the bank for his successor.

Chief Operating Officer Joseph F. Jeamel Jr., 69, will retire June 30, 2010. Jaemel told the Rockville Bank board of directors in a letter filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission that retiring mid-year "will provide me the 1,000 hours of time worked necessary to accrue a year of pension benefit."

Meanwhile, Rockville Chairman Raymond Lefurge Jr. said the bank intends to stay independent.

McGurk is well-known in state banking circles as a major champion of community banks throughout the current financial crisis. He joined Rockville Bank in 1980 as president and CEO.

Once he retires, McGurk will remain on the bank's board of directors until his term expires.

"It's time to give someone else the opportunity to experience the satisfaction of leading Connecticut's best community bank," McGurk said in a statement.

Jeamel joined the bank in 1990 as senior vice president and chief financial officer. In 2003, he was promoted to executive vice president, and two years later was named chief operating officer.

Reader response:

"Bill, What a great run! But,we still have plenty of fairways and greens to hit.......whether you're retired or not. Hope to see you soon.'' -- Byron McClanahan, Buckley Radio

 ''Bill, you're personal leadership both at Rockville Bank and in the community have been inspirational and are a model I work hard to emulate. You have made the greater Hartford community a better place through your vision and actions, thank you. I wish Rockville Bank much success in their search for your successor...there will be big shoes to fill indeed. I am proud to know you, look forward to seeing you soon and to say, Rockville Bank, That's My Bank! Best regards.'' -- Eric D. Fahnoe, Buckley Broadcasting of CT