Rocky Wirtz, founder and co-chairman of North American distribution business Breakthru Beverage Group, has died at the age of 70 after a short illness.
Wirtz, also the owner of the Chicago Blackhawks NHL ice hockey franchise, died at the NorthShore Evanston Hospital in Illinois yesterday [25 July] with his family at his side, according to a statement from Breakthru.
The company was established in 2016 through the merger of Wirtz Beverage Group with the Charmer Sunbelt Group, creating the third-largest beverage alcohol wholesale business in North America, with operations in 15 US states and Canada, and annual sales of more than US$7bn.
“Rocky was an inspiring leader and mentor to me from the moment I arrived at Breakthru,” said Tom Bené, Breakthru president and CEO. “Throughout our time together, I sought his advice often and was always amazed at his insights and acumen.
“Even more importantly, I marvelled at the respect he always showed everyone he came in contact with – he was a decent, values-driven and family-led man, as well as a titan of industry.”
Breakthru co-chairman Charlie Merinoff added: “Whether as competitors or partners, I always had the utmost respect for Rocky and admired the grace and integrity in which he conducted himself. His loss will be felt throughout our business, and I will miss my friend dearly.”
A past chairman of the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA), Wirtz was also chairman of Wirtz Corporation, one of the largest privately-held and family-owned businesses in the US, with interests including the Blackhawks, property, insurance and banking.
He was also known for his support for numerous civic and charitable organisations, including the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation.
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