Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM OCTOBER 2022 50 D ynamic leader and Kohler Co. Executive Chairman Herbert Vollrath Kohler, Jr. passed away on September 3, 2022, in Kohler, Wisconsin. He was 83. His bold ideas and hands-on leadership transformed the plumbing products manufacturer founded by his grandfather into a global and diverse family of businesses synonymous with unmatched quality, creativity and bold innovation. Herb Kohler's personal mission was to create delight. For him, there was no halfway. To warrant the "KOHLER" nameplate, a product had to be more than durable, functional and attractive. It had to be joyful and memorable. "His zest for life, adventure and impact inspires all of us. We traveled together, celebrated together, and worked together. He was all-in, all the time, leaving an indelible mark on how we live our lives today and carry on his legacy," said his family. He was admired by many as an accomplished, dynamic leader, independent-minded entrepreneur, courageous innovator and passionate creative. Herb, more than anyone, lived and breathed Kohler Co.'s mission of providing customers with gracious living each day. He was a big personality who was steadfast in guiding Kohler associates in the relentless pursuit of the company mission, and he took immense joy in witnessing his customers' delight firsthand. CREATIVE PASSION AND THE BOLD LOOK OF KOHLER In the early 1970s, Herb created a force with THE BOLD LOOK OF KOHLER that forever changed the American bathroom and kitchen, transforming what were once utilitarian spaces into statements of design, style, sophistication and craftsmanship. During his 43-year span as CEO, he also transformed his family-owned company into a world leader, with more than 40,000 associates and dozens of manufacturing facilities on six continents. The National Kitchen and Bath Hall of Fame inducted him in its founding year of 1989, followed by the National Housing Hall of Fame in 1993. Ernst & Young named him National Entrepreneur of the Year in Manufacturing in 2002, and Junior Achievement inducted him into its U.S. Business Hall of Fame in 2006. He will be greatly missed by his family, a large circle of friends, tens of thousands of Kohler Co. associates and retirees worldwide, as well as many others who came to know him. To learn more about Herb Kohler's countless contributions, his dynamic life, business impact and well-deserved accolades, visit Kohler Co.'s tribute at CelebrateHerbKohler.com. Information regarding ways to honor his memory will be detailed on the website. I N M E M O R I A M HERBERT V. KOHLER, JR. 1939-2022 An Incomparable Spirit Kohler Co. Executive Chairman Herbert V. Kohler Jr. passes at 83 RO

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