Coeur d'Alene's Hippler named grand marshal
Jon Hippler was named grand marshal of the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber's American Heroes Parade on July Fourth. He is joined by Briana Francis, parade director.
COEUR d’ALENE — Jon Hippler grew up in Coeur d’Alene. He remembers celebrating the Fourth of July with his parents, watching fireworks and attending parades.
“It’s been my town forever,” the 79-year-old said.
Still, the retired banker was surprised when he learned he was named the grand marshal of the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber’s American Heroes Parade on July Fourth.
He considers it one of the finest events in Coeur d’Alene.
“A complete shock,” Hippler said after it was announced he would be leading the parade that packs downtown Coeur d'Alene. “I feel very honored.”
Sue Thilo and Heidi Rogers nominated Hippler and both said they consider him a legacy and his influence stretches around the area.
“He's touched a lot of lives in a very positive way,” Thilo said.
She said Hippler has given decades of service to the community.
“His contributions are immeasurable,” she said.
Rogers said Hippler is an institution.
“I admire both Jon and Cyndi Hippler for their service to our community and mentoring for others. Coeur d’Alene is a better community because of them,” she said.
Hippler founded two community banks, First Federal and Mountain West Bank, which not only provided employment to hundreds but also experienced substantial growth before being acquired by larger financial institutions, a press release said.
“His vision was to create a community bank for Coeur d'Alene, which continues to have a very giving and involved presence,” Rogers said. “Mountain West Bank is renowned not only for its financial contributions but also for encouraging employee involvement throughout the community."
Hippler has served on civic and nonprofit boards, including the EXCEL Foundation, North Idaho College Foundation and Jobs Plus. His leadership was instrumental in raising capital for the Lake City Senior Center and the Coeur d'Alene Public Library.
He served in the Marine Corps, graduated from the University of Idaho and lives in Hayden Lake. He has been an active member of the Coeur d'Alene community since moving back from Portland in 1982.
A longtime Rotarian, Hippler has served as club president and continues to be an active member of the Coeur d'Alene Rotary Foundation board. He spearheaded a capital campaign that led to a renovation at First Presbyterian Church.
"Jon Hippler is highly regarded and beloved in our community," Thilo said. "His selection as grand marshal is a fitting tribute to his many contributions and the positive impact he has had on Coeur d'Alene."
The American Heroes Parade is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m.
“Join us in celebrating the achievements and contributions of Jon Hippler and honoring the heroes who make our country a wonderful place to live,” a press release said. “The American Heroes Parade promises to be a highlight of the Independence Day festivities, filled with vibrant floats, marching bands and a strong sense of community spirit.”