Services Set for Wakefern's Silverberg

NEW YORK — A memorial service is scheduled Friday for David Silverberg, former president of Wakefern Food Corp., who died Wednesday at the age of 91.

Silverberg joined Wakefern, Keasbey, N.J., in 1950 as assistant to the general manager. He moved through several jobs, including general manager, and was named president in 1971 — a position he held until 1987. During his years with the member-owned cooperative, he helped develop the frozen food, dairy, HBC and communications information services divisions and was instrumental in decentralizing the organization.

"David's contributions to Wakefern and the industry are beyond compare,” said Joe Sheridan, president and chief operating officer. “We are where we are today because of the foundation he laid and the innovative ideas he brought to the company."

Silverberg is survived by a sister and brother; a step-daughter; and several nieces and nephews.