Obituary: Donald E. Becker

CINCINNATI — Services were pending last week for longtime Kroger Co. executive Donald E. Becker, who died unexpectedly on Feb. 16 after suffering an aneurysm. He was 62.

“Don leaves a legacy of enthusiasm and passion for doing what's right for our customers and our associates,” said David B. Dillon, Kroger's chairman and chief executive officer.

Becker joined Kroger in 1969 as a clerk in the Cincinnati/Dayton Division. During his career, he held a number of leadership positions, including vice president of the Cincinnati/Dayton Division and president of the Central Division. He was promoted to senior vice president in 2000 and to executive vice president in 2004, overseeing merchandising and procurement, among a range of other responsibilities.

The company noted that Becker was passionate about inclusion and diversity and served as co-chair of Kroger's first General Office Cultural Council.