A Tribute to Our Founder
Joel Henry Wiens
October 30, 1929 – March 8, 2026
In 1963, Joel Wiens purchased The Bank of Kimball, Nebraska, launching a successful career in banking and business. Joel’s drive, vision and eye for talent helped him grow what is now known as FirsTier Bank into 12 locations and over $1 billion in total assets.
Joel was born October 30, 1929, in Drummond, Oklahoma, the day after the stock market crash that ushered in the Great Depression. Those early years shaped the resilient and entrepreneurial spirit that defined his life.
Joel attended Phillips University in Enid, Oklahoma, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. Together with his wife, he raised two sons, Tom and Tim, while living in Alma, Nebraska, where Joel taught high school, coached basketball, and ran various small business enterprises on the side. Joel was a longtime resident of Cheyenne, WY, and over the years was involved in numerous business ventures including the establishment and leadership of FirsTier Bank in the 90’s.
Today, his legacy lives on through his two sons, Tom, Principal/Director, and Tim, Principal/Chairman & CEO, who continue to lead the bank with the same commitment to service, strength, stability, and community that defined Joel’s vision.
Pictured left to right: Tim Wiens (son), Terry Wiens (brother), Tom Wiens (son); seated Founder Joel Wiens.