George Hamlin, former president and CEO of Canandaigua National Bank, has died

George Hamlin IV, former president and CEO of Canandaigua National Bank & Trust, has died at the age of 83.

The longtime leader of the Canandaigua National Bank and Trust has died. George Hamlin IV died peacefully Thursday evening at the age of 83 at his home, surrounded by his family, according to the bank.

A statement released Friday by the bank noted that Hamlin “led Canandaigua National Bank & Trust for 45 years during an era of unprecedented growth, all while serving as a pillar of the community in many areas.”

Hamlin is a Canadian native who graduated from Yale University with a degree in physics in 1963, performing around the world with the famous Yale a cappella group, the Whiffenpoofs.

From there, Hamlin joined the United States Air Force, where he served three tours in Vietnam, flying over 100 combat missions and ultimately receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross.

After his military service, Hamlin practiced law and in 1979 took the reins of Canandaigua National Bank & Trust.

He stepped down from his leadership position in 2021, and his son Frank Hamlin is now president and CEO of Canandaigua National.

“To say the least, my father was larger than life,” Frank Hamlin said in a statement. “He was a true Renaissance man whose passion developed in many different areas.”

During George Hamlin’s tenure, the bank expanded its physical presence, which included expansion into Monroe County. Canandaigua National recently announced plans to add branches in Syracuse in the coming years.

Hamlin was a staunch supporter of the arts and, according to a statement from the bank, played a key role in saving Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion.

Details about the memorial service will be announced in the coming days.