NSTS Bancorp, Inc. Announces Passing of Nathan E. Walker, Chief Executive Officer and President of North Shore Trust and Savings

Rhea-AI Summary

NSTS Bancorp (NASDAQ:NSTS) announced the passing of Nathan E. Walker, Chief Executive Officer and President of North Shore Trust and Savings and Executive Vice President of the company.

Stephen G. Lear, longtime chairman and CEO of the company, is appointed Chief Executive Officer and President of the bank. As of December 31, 2025, the bank reported $266.6 million in total assets and operates three full-service offices in Illinois.

Positive

• Immediate succession: Stephen G. Lear appointed CEO and President
• Established leadership history: Lear has led company since 2012
• Bank size: $266.6 million in total assets (Dec 31, 2025)
• Local franchise: over 100 years serving community banking markets

Negative

• Passing of CEO Nathan E. Walker creates leadership loss
• CEO turnover: Walker served as bank CEO only since 2022

News Market Reaction – NSTS

-1.27%

-1.27% Session close to close

In the Apr 10 session, NSTS declined 1.27%, reflecting a mild negative market reaction.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.

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WAUKEGAN, Ill., April 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NSTS Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”), the holding company for North Shore Trust and Savings (the “Bank”), announced today the recent passing of Nathan E. Walker, Chief Executive Officer and President of the Bank and Executive Vice President of the Company. Mr. Walker began his career as a teller in 1996 and, through dedication, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to our customers and communities, rose to serve as Chief Executive Officer and President of the Bank and Executive Vice President of the Company since 2022. Mr. Walker led with courage, integrity, and heart. He supported our employees, championed our customers, and guided our bank with steady vision and compassion. His impact can be seen in the relationships he built, the lives he touched, and the culture he helped shape.

The Company is extremely grateful for Mr. Walker’s service and commitment to the Company and the Bank. His leadership, character, and commitment to North Shore Trust and Savings will continue to inspire us every day. The Company’s Board of Directors and management extend their sincerest condolences to Mr. Walker’s family.

Stephen G. Lear, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer and President of the Bank. Mr. Lear has served as Chairman of the Board of Directors, Chief Executive Officer and President of the Company since 2012, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bank since 2012, and as a director since 2003. Mr. Lear served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Bank from 1997 to 2022, when he was succeeded by Mr. Walker.

About NSTS Bancorp, Inc. and North Shore Trusts and Savings

NSTS Bancorp Inc. is the holding company of North Shore Trust and Savings. As of December 31, 2025, North Shore Trust and Savings had total assets of $266.6 million in assets and operates from its headquarters and main banking office in Waukegan, Illinois, as well as two additional full-service branch offices located in Waukegan and Lindenhurst, Illinois, respectively. For over 100 years, North Shore Trust and Savings has served the local communities where it operates and has deep and longstanding relationships with its businesses and retail customers as well as local municipalities.

Contact:
Stephen G. Lear
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
slear@northshoretrust.com
(847) 336-4430

FAQ

Who is the new Chief Executive Officer of North Shore Trust and Savings (NSTS)?

Stephen G. Lear is appointed Chief Executive Officer and President of the bank. According to the company, Lear has been chairman and CEO of the company since 2012 and previously led the bank from 1997 to 2022.

When did NSTS announce the passing of CEO Nathan E. Walker?

NSTS announced the passing on April 9, 2026. According to the company, Walker had served as bank CEO and company executive vice president since 2022 and began his career in 1996.

How large is North Shore Trust and Savings (NSTS) by assets?

The bank reported total assets of $266.6 million as of December 31, 2025. According to the company, it operates its main office plus two additional full-service branches in Illinois.

What leadership experience does Stephen G. Lear bring to the bank (NSTS)?

Lear has served as company chairman, president, and CEO since 2012. According to the company, he previously served as bank CEO from 1997 to 2022 and has been a director since 2003.

What immediate operational changes occurred at NSTS after the announcement?

The immediate change was appointment of Stephen G. Lear as bank CEO and president. According to the company, this restores leadership continuity given Lear's prior tenure leading the bank.

How many branches does North Shore Trust and Savings (NSTS) operate and where?

North Shore Trust and Savings operates three full-service offices in Illinois. According to the company, its headquarters and main banking office are in Waukegan, with additional branches in Waukegan and Lindenhurst.