Department store heir Blake Nordstrom dies at 58

By

Robin Driver

Published
Jan 3, 2019

Luxury department store chain Nordstrom, Inc. has announced that its co-president Blake Nordstrom passed away unexpectedly in Seattle on the morning of Wednesday, January 2, at the age of 58, less than a month after he was diagnosed with a treatable form of lymphoma.

The heir to the retail empire announced his diagnosis in December of last year. At the time, he stated that his doctors were optimistic about his condition and that he would continue to work throughout his treatment, which would include chemotherapy, but would be reducing his traveling commitments.
 
Great-grandson of the company’s founder John Nordstrom, Blake Nordstrom had served as the retail chain’s co-president alongside brothers Erik and Pete since 2015, having previously held the title of president from 2000.

“Executive leadership of Nordstrom will continue under co-presidents Pete and Erik Nordstrom. We appreciate your respect for the privacy of the family during this difficult time,” said a Nordstrom spokesperson in the company’s statement.
 
“My heart goes out to the Nordstrom family and everyone at the company during this difficult time,” commented Nordstrom chairman of the board Brad Smith in the company’s statement. “Everyone who worked with Blake knew of his passion and deep commitment to employees, customers and the communities we serve. We are fortunate to have continued leadership from co-presidents Pete and Erik Nordstrom.”