Loss of a Footwear Industry Giant
Bruce Nordstrom, who transformed his family shoe store into a major retail powerhouse, died on Saturday at the age of 90. His sons, Erik and Pete Nordstrom, confirmed his passing.
“It is with deep sadness we announce our dad passed away comfortably at home on May 18, with his wife Jeannie by his side,” said Pete and Erik Nordstrom in a joint statement. “Our dad will be remembered not only for his significant contributions to Nordstrom, but also for his unwavering dedication to his family and friends. His passion, integrity and tireless work ethic served as an inspiration to everyone around him. But perhaps his greatest achievement was being an amazing father, husband and grandfather. Our dad leaves a powerful legacy as a legendary business leader, a generous community citizen and a loyal friend.”
Bruce Nordstrom began his career at age nine, working at the family shoe store. His love for his family influenced both his life and work.
In 2018, shortly before receiving FN’s Lifetime Achievement Award, Nordstrom revealed that joining the family business wasn’t mandatory for the third-generation Nordstrom.
Driven and detail-oriented, Bruce became president at 30. During a period of significant growth, he led the company public in 1971, launched the first Nordstrom Rack in 1973, and continued expanding nationwide, including entering the lucrative California market. He retired in 1995 but returned as chairman in 2000 during a challenging time for the company, finally retiring for good in 2006.
Bruce Nordstrom, who proudly handed over the business to his sons Erik, Pete, and the late Blake Nordstrom, continued to enjoy being on the retail floor well into his later years.
Bruce Nordstrom is survived by his wife Jeannie; his sister Anne Gittinger; his sons Pete and Erik; daughters-in-law Brandy, Julie, and Molly; and seven grandchildren, Alex, Andy, Leigh, Sam, Sara, Micki, and Chet.