Fry's President Jon Flora Dies at Age 58

TOLLESON, Ariz. — Jon Flora, president of Kroger Co.'s Fry’s Food Stores division here, died unexpectedly on Friday at age 58.

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“We are deeply saddened to lose Jon, our dear friend and extraordinary leader,” Dave Dillon, chairman and chief executive officer of Cincinnati-based Kroger, said in a letter to employees. “Jon leaves a legacy of enthusiasm and passion for doing what’s right for our customers, our neighbors and our associates. He touched the lives of countless people in our company as well as throughout our industry and community.”

Flora joined Kroger in 1971 as a clerk and bottle boy at Dillons in Garden City, Kan. During his career, he held a number of leadership positions with the company, including vice president of merchandising, vice president of the Southwest Division, president of the Michigan and Great Lakes Divisions, and senior vice president and officer presiding over seven of Kroger’s supermarket divisions. In 2007, he was named president of Fry’s.

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He also was an active community volunteer and was recognized for his numerous contributions in helping to fight hunger throughout Arizona. The Phoenix Business Journal recognized him as “2013 Valley’s Most Admired Leaders” and the “2012 Executive Volunteer of the Year.”

Flora is survived by two grown children, Byron and Jessica.

Funeral arrangements are pending.