Jon-Flora-Obituary

Jon Flora

Obituary

PHOENIX (AP) - Jon Flora, the president of Fry's Food Stores in Arizona and a well-known figure through area ads and in-store promotions, has died, the company announced in a statement. He was 58.

Dave Dillon, Kroger Chairman and CEO, said Saturday that the company was deeply saddened by Flora's sudden death because he mentored many employees and was "extraordinary leader."

"Jon leaves a legacy of enthusiasm and passion for doing what's right for our customers, our neighbors and our associates," Dillon said. "He touched the lives of countless people in our company as well as throughout our industry and community."

Friends said Flora died Friday.

The cause of death was not mentioned in the company statement. But Rep. Jonathan Larkin, D-Glendale, said on Twitter that it was a heart attack that claimed Flora's life.

"As many of you know I work for Fry's Food Stores," Larkin tweeted Friday. "It saddens me to say that my CEO Jon Flora passed away from a heart attack today."

Flora joined Kroger in 1971 as a clerk and bottle boy at Dillon's Stores. During his career, he held a number of leadership positions with the company, including vice president of merchandising.

In 2007, Flora was named president of Fry's.

Earlier this year, Flora was honored by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix as a "true champion for children in need."

The Tolleson-based Fry's employs 18,000 in Arizona.

Fry's is a division of the Cincinnati, Ohio-based Kroger Co.

Funeral arrangements are pending.


Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Guest Book

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I will always miss your kindness

To my friend John flora growing up in Kansas was tough high school stuff you are always outstanding know you're always gave me spirit I'm sorry to see you go I know we'll be together again on the basketball court go Jayhawks right miss you love you always Mike

We miss you in the store. When we come to a question we still say, "What would Jon do?" It's difficult without you but we are striving to keep your vision alive.

My heart is beyond saddened to hear of the passing of Jon Flora. He was the ultimate leader with a compassionate heart. He believed in people and his actions showed it. The world has lost a good man. I was blessed to have work with you in Dallas. Rest in peace Mr. Flora.

I was a customer at Fry's at 59th Ave. and Beardsley. Several months ago I saw him in the store. I mentioned to one of the employees that I liked his commercials on TV, because he looked and sounded so down to earth. She brought me over to him and introduced me to him. He was so kind to me, and I was so impressed with him. I will never forget this man. God bless him, and I know he will be in good hands now.

Jon, you will truly be missed... You were kind, respectful, and fair... You were a true gentleman, and a joy to work for! I am glad, and proud to have worked for you!

Saw him @ Thomas St. Fry's a year or so ago. My wife and I went over to him & shook his hand, telling him that they were beating the competition soundly in the heat of the local TV campaign. He smiled broadly & politely thanked us for the feedback & for stopping by. He had a positive screen presence and is surely missed by many.