Ken Mueller, senior vice president and chief financial officer for Raley’s, died in a plane crash Sunday, reports Supermarket News. He was 56.
Mueller, along with Richard Conte, 68, chief pilot for Raley's, were killed when their small aircraft went down near Galt, California.
“Over the weekend, we were notified by authorities of a plane crash involving two long-term Raley’s team members, Ken Mueller, chief financial officer, and Richard Conte, chief pilot," said spokeswoman Chelsea Minor, in a statement. “Our organization is deeply saddened and heartbroken. At this time, we are focused on supporting their families, friends and our colleagues. An investigation is being handled by the regulatory agencies, and we expect to learn more in the days and weeks ahead.”
Mueller joined Raley’s in 1997 as controller and was later appointed CFO. During his tenure, Raley’s completed its acquisition of The Bashas’ Family of Stores, which nearly doubled the retailer’s store base and formed a new entity for both businesses, The Raley’s Cos.
He is survived by his wife Brigitte and two children. Full Story