Frederik Meijer
Fred Meijer | |
|---|---|
| Born | Frederik Gerhard Hendrik Meijer 7 December 1919 Greenville, Michigan, U.S. |
| Died | 25 November 2011 (aged 91) Grand Rapids, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, businessman |
| Years active | 1934–2011 |
| Known for | Chairman of Meijer hypermarket chain |
Frederik Gerhard Hendrik "Fred" Meijer (December 7, 1919 – November 25, 2011) was a prominent American billionaire entrepreneur and served as chairman of the Meijer hypermarket chain, which is based near Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Early life
Meijer was born in Greenville, Michigan to Dutch immigrant parents Gezina Mantel and Hendrik Meijer. At the age of 14, in 1934, he assisted his father in establishing Meijer's North Side Grocery located in Greenville.
Career
Together with his father, Meijer introduced Meijer Thrifty Acres in 1962, a concept that revolutionized retail by offering one-stop shopping. Following his father's passing in 1964, he assumed ownership of the company. Operational leadership was transferred to his sons, Doug and Hank, in 1990, although he retained the position of chairman until his death. By 2011, his fortune was valued at approximately US$5 billion, positioning him as the 60th wealthiest individual in the United States.
Personal life
In 1946, Meijer wed Lena Rader (1919–2022), who had previously worked as a store cashier. The couple had three sons: Doug, Hank, and Mark Meijer. His grandson, Peter Meijer, represented Michigan's 3rd congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2021 until 2023. Fred Meijer passed away on November 25, 2011, in Grand Rapids following a stroke. His wife Lena lived to be 102 years old, passing away in January 2022.
Legacy
Meijer's contributions include co-founding the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. His name is commemorated through an Honors College at Grand Valley State University and a Dutch culture Chair at Calvin University. Additionally, the Frederik Meijer Trail in Kent County, Michigan and the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park honor him, supported by donations from the Frederik and Lena Meijer Foundation.