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Peoples Bank has announced the retirement of Vern Woods, retail district branch manager and Edmonds branch manager, effective Nov. 30.
The bank noted in a news release that Woods has been a respected and admired banker in the Edmonds community since 1995. Since joining Peoples Bank in 2016, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the bank’s presence in the Edmonds area, the release said.
“Our decision to enter the Edmonds community and build a permanent branch location was greatly influenced by the opportunity to bring Vern on board as our branch manager — a decision that has proven invaluable,” said Kamyar Monsef, chief retail banking officer at Peoples Bank. “His unwavering commitment to serving customers, supporting employees, and engaging with the community has made Vern a celebrated figure both inside and outside the branch.”
A retirement celebration honoring Vern’s career will be frpm 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20 at Peoples Bank’s Edmonds Branch at 201 Main St. All are welcome, and refreshments will be provided.
In conjunction with Woods’ retirement, the bank has promoted Sierra Schram as Edmonds branch manager. Schram previously served as Mill Creek branch manager and has over 13 years of experience with Peoples Bank, beginning her career as a part-time teller in Everson.
“I want my customers to leave remembering my name and sharing it with their friends and family,” she said. “I strive to provide a personal touch and a seamless experience that reminds them why they bank with Peoples Bank.”
Congratulations Vern – a well deserved victory over work! You will love retirement.
Goodonya Mate!
Vern was more than a banker—he was a trusted friend, someone you felt safe doing business with, especially in times of uncertainty. Through his work, Vern brought a caring connection to every person who walked through his door. He understood that banking was never just about numbers; it was about people, their hopes, and their dreams.
Vern helped families manage their money with confidence and guided them toward building the future they envisioned. He listened with genuine concern, and his thoughtful advice made a lasting impact on our community. He reminded us that financial guidance, when given with compassion, can truly change lives.
We are deeply grateful for Vern’s dedication and the warmth he brought to his profession. His legacy of care and integrity will be missed. I hope his approach to connecting with customers inspires others to look beyond the transactional side of banking and learn from his example.
He instilled this attitude in his co-workers, and we hope that spirit continues. Thank you, Vern, for your service to the Edmonds community. Your kindness and professionalism will not be forgotten.
Congratulations Vern!
From WaMu to Cascade Bank to Opus Bank and finally Peoples Bank, you have been our trusted banker over the past 20+ years. Your professionalism, commitment to our community, and personalized service has made us not just loyal customers, but good friends. You are the shining example of, and set the gold standard for, ‘customer service’ and ‘customer relations’.
Enjoy the fishing and travel! We will miss your smiling face at People’s Bank.
Thank you, Jay, for the kind words. What an amazing community to work in for the last 28 years and yes, your right it wasn’t about the money, it was about the relationships and the dreams behind them. So proud to have been a part of so many lives. Wishing everyone good health and smooth sailing. I hope our paths continue to cross every now and then.
Good to hear from you too Mr Fleck, well deserved indeed.
Vern always cooked a great hot dog on those summer, “come to see our bank days.” Hope he rides his rocking chair in the Fourth of July parade. Thanks for your years of service and help in our community.
Congratulations Vern!
Your commitment to making a difference in Edmonds was certainly felt by your support of the Edmonds Senior Center Thrift Store. What a friend you have been! Thank you. You will be missed but your gentle spirit will always be with us. You indeed left your mark.
Vern helped me immensely when he was at WAMU during a very challenging time in my life. He is the absolute best. I will always be grateful. Congratulations Vern on your well-deserved retirement.