The Chicago-based Blommer Chocolate Co. says Joe Blommer, its president and CEO, has died at age 67.
The company, which is reportedly North America’s largest cocoa bean processor, said Blommer died Wednesday at his home in River Hill, Wis., after a long fight with brain cancer.
The Milwaukee-born Blommer led the family owned company founded by his father and uncles in 1939 through a period of sustained growth.
Blommer was responsible for the 1980 construction of the company’s plant in East Greenville, Pa., and a recent major expansion there. The company also has plants in Chicago and Union City, Calif.
Blommer and his brother, Henry, also helped the company defeat a takeover attempt by Cargill, Inc., in 1992.
Blommer is survived by his wife, Karen, five children, and three grandchildren.
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