store's relocation to Hollywood West in 1988). Meyer's wife, Eva Mayer, died in 1960. Their marriage had lasted 40 years. Eva Meyer was also secretary-treasurer of Fred Meyer Inc. until her death. The couple had no children together, but Eva had one son from a previous marriage, Earle A. Chiles (namesake of the Chiles Center), who also worked as an officer of the company. Meyer was opposed to zoning, specifically naming the model of Houston, Texas, as a successful example. He continued to work regularly until his death, even after suffering a major stroke in 1972. In 1974, his company expanded into the savings and loan business with the establishment of Fred Meyer Savings & Loan, which had 29 locations (in Fred Meyer stores) by 1978. He was named Portland's "First Citizen" in 1976. Death Meyer died on September 2, 1978, at the age of 92, at his Portland home. He died in his sleep, but had been dealing with chronic heart disease and breathing difficulties in his last few years. In its obituary, Portland's The Oregonian described Meyer as "the venerable merchant whose name and shopping-center empire have been linked for almost 70 years with the city's growth". Oregon Governor Bob Straub was quoted as saying, "Oregon has lost one of its great citizens." Philanthropy Although known for living frugally, Meyer gave to many charities, in particular the Salvation Army, and became known for his philanthropy. Upon his death, his stock in Fred Meyer established the Meyer Memorial Trust, leaving behind $60 million to be used for "religious, charitable, scientific, literary or educational purposes." He was cremated, and his remains were scattered in the Salmon River near Wemme on Mount Hood. The Meyer Memorial Trust is distinct from the Fred Meyer Fund, controlled by Kroger, which now owns Fred Meyer Stores. Notes References Works cited External links Fred Meyer Company Website Fred Meyer Story - Oregon History Museum 1886 births 1978 deaths American businesspeople in retailing American grocers Businesspeople from New York City Businesspeople from Oregon American people of German descent Kroger 20th-century American businesspeople