Bob Grinde’s story starts in Eau Claire, where, at just four years old, he took to the ice through Eau Claire Youth Hockey’s Mini Mite program. The rink became his second home, spending countless hours at Hobbs Arena, and the Roosevelt and Pinhurst outdoor rinks, where he learned to navigate not only the fast-paced world of hockey but also the values that would guide him for life—teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. Over time, these lessons would prove invaluable not just on the ice, but also in his career as a trusted Commercial Banker at CCFBank.
For Bob, hockey was more than a game. His high school coaches at Eau Claire North, Tom Kuklinski and Tom Bernhardt, taught him that success requires more than talent. It’s about character, discipline, and how you carry yourself when no one’s watching. Bob embraced these values, taking to heart the lesson that “you can’t be a great hockey player unless you’re a great person first.” It’s a principle he passes on to the young players he now coaches—emphasizing respect, success in the classroom, gratitude, and responsibility.
After high school, Bob’s passion for hockey led him to coaching, both in the Twin Cities and, later, back in Eau Claire where he’s been coaching since 2017. Whether leading Team Wisconsin or Eau Claire Youth Hockey to a state championship, Bob’s pride doesn’t just come from wins. Instead, it’s about seeing his players grow—watching young athletes become confident, respectful, and driven individuals. In Bob’s eyes, these personal victories mean far more than any trophy.
The values that Bob honed on the ice—quick decision-making, problem-solving, and teamwork—are the same principles that guide his work in commercial banking at CCFBank. Further, growing up in a family that owned a small business for 40 years, Bob developed a deep appreciation for the challenges local business owners face. That understanding allows him to do more than just provide financial advice—he becomes an integral part of his customers’ teams, helping them plan for success.
Every business owner that walks through Bob’s door is like one of his players—someone with potential, grit, and goals. Bob sees his role as helping them unlock that potential by providing the financial tools and expertise they need. He’s an extension of their team, celebrating their victories and helping them push through challenges. To Bob, referrals from clients mean something more—they are a testament to trust.
“When someone refers a business owner or friend to me, it’s the highest compliment. It means they’re trusting me with their livelihood.”
Bob’s time on the Eau Claire Youth Hockey board also reflects his commitment to giving back. Since 2016, he has worked to ensure that every child in Eau Claire has the opportunity to try hockey, regardless of their circumstances. Just as he works tirelessly for his clients, Bob’s dedication to his players and the community means ensuring future generations have the chance to experience the same opportunities that shaped him.
In both hockey and business, Bob knows that success isn’t an individual pursuit—it’s the result of teamwork, trust, and shared goals. Whether he’s in the locker room or sitting down with a business owner, Bob approaches each relationship with the same philosophy: work hard, lead by example, and always take care of the people around you.
At CCFBank, Bob’s found a home that reflects those values. Founded in 1938, the bank serves as a pillar of support for businesses and families across Wisconsin and Minnesota, offering personalized service that’s rooted in local communities. It’s the perfect fit for Bob, who’s spent his entire life investing in the success of those around him.
Whether coaching the next generation of hockey players or guiding business owners toward their financial goals, Bob’s mission remains the same: to help people succeed and build something they can be proud of. And in everything he does, Bob Grinde proves that the lessons learned on the ice are the ones that last a lifetime.
