Charles “Chuck” Marshall Yoke, founder of Pacific Northwest independent supermarket chain Yoke’s Fresh Market, has died at the age of 92, reports Progressive Grocer. Yoke’s parents operated a grocery story in Deer Park, Washington in 1953, at which time he formed a partnership with his father to add checkouts, shopping carts, and refrigerated display cases to the location.
In 1960, Yoke took full ownership of the store, which became one of the first in the area to offer a full-service deli, pharmacy, and floral department. Currently, Yoke’s has 17 stores in Washington and Idaho and employs 1,615 associates.
“Chuck Yoke always remained loyal to the people that helped him build the Yoke’s grocery empire,” the company said. “In 1990, he sold the stores to his employees, leading the way for an employee-owned enterprise in the Northwest.”
Yoke is survived by Gwen, his wife of 70 years; five children; 20 grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren; five step great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his son, Steve. Full Story
Image: Lauer Funeral