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Article Date: April 2026
Word Count: 117

Obituary: Jim Whittaker


REI’s first full-time paid employee and former CEO of the outdoor co-op passed away on Apr. 7, 2026, at the age of 97. Whittaker was hired by REI in 1955 by co-founder Lloyd Anderson, and later served as its CEO from 1971 to 1979. During his tenure, he helped shape ... Log in to view full article.

 

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