Bob Moore, Founder of Bob’s Red Mill, Passes Away at 94
Bob Moore, the founder and bearded face of internationally distributed Bob’s Red Mill food products, died Saturday at the age of 94.
Moore, who remained on the board of the Milwaukie-based company until his death, launched Bob’s Red Mill in 1978 with the help of his wife, Charlee, after their family embraced a nutritious diet full of whole grains.
Bob’s Red Mill today offers more than 200 products, ranging from whole wheat flour to classic granola to grain-free brownie mix. Moore’s unmistakable visage, complete with cap, glasses, white beard, and bolo tie, graces every item, making his face instantly recognizable on grocery store shelves in Oregon and beyond.
In 2010, on his 81st birthday, Moore transferred ownership of the company, estimated to have annual revenues of over $24 million in 2004, to its workers through an employee stock ownership plan. Over 700 employees now own the company through non-trading retirement account shares.
Moore retired from his day job at Bob’s Red Mill in 2018 when he was 89 years old, willingly passing the reins to Trey Winthrop, now CEO. Despite stepping down, Moore’s spirit continues to inspire and guide the company’s mission.
Beyond Business Ownership: A Legacy of Philanthropy
Aside from revolutionizing the whole-grain industry, Moore and his late wife, Charlee, were renowned for their philanthropic endeavors. Their contributions include the Moore Family Center for Whole Grain Foods, Nutrition, and Preventive Health at Oregon State University, as well as the Bob and Charlee Moore Institute for Nutrition & Wellness at Oregon Health & Science University. Their generosity reflects a deep commitment to pure, high-quality ingredients and a desire to improve the nation’s nutritional health through education and research.
Remembering a Remarkable Life
Bob Moore is survived by his sons Ken, Bob Jr., and David, as well as nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Details about a planned celebration of life will be provided at a later time.
For further inquiries, please contact Beth Slovic at [email protected] or call 503-221-8551.
