Blog Post

A Foundation Built to Last

Blackhawk Bank & Trust first opened its doors in 1961 with a simple vision: to serve its community with local decision-making, strong relationships, and long-term stability. Sixty-five years later, that vision remains unchanged.

The bank is still family-owned and operated, rooted in local ownership and guided by people who live and work in the communities we serve.

At the heart of that story is the Huiskamp family, whose leadership and commitment have helped shape the bank across generations.

That connection began in 1973, when W. Gerard “Gerry” Huiskamp joined Blackhawk State Bank as Vice President and Cashier. Just months later, on January 16, 1974, he was named President, marking the beginning of nearly five decades of leadership.

Through economic cycles, industry changes, and moments of uncertainty, Gerry helped guide the bank with a steady hand—focused not just on growth, but on building something lasting. After 49 years of service, he stepped back from day-to-day responsibilities, but his influence remains strong as Chairman of the Board.

Expanding the Legacy

Over time, the next generation stepped in, not all at once, but in meaningful ways that strengthened the bank from within. John Huiskamp played a key role in operations, helping build a strong operational base. Heidi Huiskamp Collins expanded the bank’s vision by launching the Wealth Management division in 2005 and helping guide its evolution into Blackhawk Bank & Trust. Jim Huiskamp carried that momentum forward, leading the bank through years of steady growth as President and later President & CEO.

Each brought a different strength. Together, they built on a shared commitment—one rooted in long-term thinking, financial discipline, and a deep commitment to the community.

Alongside them, leaders like Chris Lemon have played an important role in maintaining continuity and reinforcing what makes the bank special. Chris dedicated 45 years to Blackhawk Bank & Trust and served as President beginning in October 2024, helping guide this transition with care and stability.

The Next Generation of Leadership

Today, that story continues with a third generation.

Eric Huiskamp Mutka, grandson of Gerry Huiskamp and son of Heidi Huiskamp Collins, joined the bank in October 2018. A graduate of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with a degree in Economics, Eric brings strong financial experience and a forward-looking perspective to his role.

His work has focused on balance sheet management, investment strategy, and long-term planning, helping to position the bank for continued strength and independence.

Now President & CEO, Eric continues a legacy that spans generations.

“This bank has always been about taking care of people the right way—our customers, our employees, and our communities,” Eric said. “My goal is to build on that foundation, stay focused on long-term growth, and make sure we continue to operate as a strong, independent, family-owned bank for years to come.”

Eric Huiskamp mutka

What Has Always Set Us Apart

While leadership evolves, the core of Blackhawk Bank & Trust remains unchanged.
It is still a bank where:

• Decisions are made locally
• Relationships come first
• We remain Not For Sale.

That philosophy has guided the bank for 65 years and continues to shape it today.

It’s also why maintaining local ownership matters. The bank remains closely held by local families who care deeply about its future and the communities it serves, helping ensure decisions stay here, not somewhere else.

Looking Ahead

Every generation leaves its mark.

Some build the foundation.
Some strengthen it.
And some carry it forward.

At Blackhawk Bank & Trust, all three are part of the same story.

As the bank continues forward, it remains grounded in the same values that have guided it since 1961—local ownership, strong relationships, and a commitment to staying independent.

Because this isn’t just a bank.
It’s a legacy.