Sheldon Lavin
Sheldon Lavin | |
|---|---|
| Born | 17 June 1932 United States |
| Died | 26 May 2023 (aged 90) |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, businessman |
| Known for | Owner, CEO, and chairman of OSI Group |
Sheldon Lavin (June 17, 1932 – May 26, 2023) was an American billionaire entrepreneur who served as the owner, CEO, and chairman of OSI Group, a prominent meat processing company in the United States and a chief hamburger supplier to McDonald's. At the time of his passing, his estimated net worth was approximately US$3.1 billion.
Early life
Lavin was born in 1932 and obtained a bachelor's degree in business from Roosevelt University located in Chicago.
Career
Lavin began his association with OSI in 1970 as a consultant tasked with securing financing for the company’s inaugural modern meat production facility. He transitioned into a permanent role and by the 1980s had acquired nearly 90% ownership of the business. In recognition of his contributions, he was honored with induction into the Meat Industry Hall of Fame in November 2013.
Personal life
Residing in Highland Park, Illinois, Lavin was married to Sylvia Spatz for 55 years until her passing in 2009. Together, they had three children: Debbi Rosenberg, Steven H. Lavin, and Jerold R. Lavin. A member of the Jewish community, Lavin died at his home on May 26, 2023.
He was a dedicated philanthropist supporting a range of charitable organizations such as Ronald McDonald House Charities—where he chaired the capital campaign from 2013 to 2015—the Inner City Foundation of Chicago, Jewish United Fund, Evans Scholarship Fund, Boys and Girls Clubs of Chicago, United Negro College Fund, and The National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Honors
Lavin received induction into the Meat Industry Hall of Fame in November 2013.