Bernard Marcus, co-founder of Home Depot and a leading philanthropist, has died at the age of 95. His passing closes a chapter on a life marked by groundbreaking achievements in retail and significant charitable contributions.

Marcus, a visionary retailer, and generous donor, profoundly shaped the home improvement industry and dedicated his wealth to causes benefitting communities worldwide, Fox 9 - Minneapolis - St. Paul reported.

Home Depot announced the news of Marcus's death on Tuesday morning. Marcus was born in 1929 in Newark, New Jersey, to Russian Jewish immigrants. Despite initially aspiring to become a doctor, financial constraints led him to study pharmacy at Rutgers University.

From Selling Freezers To Building An Empire

Marcus began his professional journey selling freezers door-to-door before entering the retail industry. In 1972, he became chairman and president of Handy Dan Improvement Centers Inc., a significant step in his career. However, his tenure ended abruptly in 1978 when he, along with Arthur Blank and Ron Brill, was fired.

In a pivotal moment, the three partners founded Home Depot in Atlanta in 1978. With financing from investment banker Ken Langone, they set out to revolutionize the home improvement market. Marcus, then 48, played a crucial role in building the company’s foundation.

Under his leadership, Home Depot grew exponentially. The company expanded to over 2,300 locations and employed more than 500,000 associates, becoming a household name in the process.

Commitment To Philanthropy And Community Impact

As a billionaire, Marcus used his success to give back. In 2010, he and his wife, Billi, joined The Giving Pledge, a commitment to donate the majority of their wealth to philanthropic causes. Their efforts focused on healthcare, education, and military support.

The couple founded the Marcus Institute, now known as the Marcus Autism Center, to advance autism research and treatment. Marcus also played a key role in launching the Gary Sinise Foundation Avalon Network, which provides resources for veterans dealing with PTSD and brain injuries.

One of his notable contributions was Project Share, created to support military personnel recovering from spinal and brain injuries. Marcus also funded the construction of the Georgia Aquarium in 2005, which remains a popular attraction and a symbol of his dedication to his home state.

Marcus's Lasting Legacy On Retail And Philanthropy

In addition to his philanthropic endeavors, Marcus was a vocal supporter of conservative causes. He backed Donald Trump’s presidential campaigns and engaged in efforts to advance his political values. Despite some controversy, Marcus’s philanthropic work remained a central part of his legacy.

Home Depot reflected on his impact with a statement, expressing deep sadness over his death. The company acknowledged Marcus as a "retail visionary" who prioritized associates, customers, and community values above all. His commitment to these principles became the backbone of Home Depot’s success.

In his memoir, "Kick Up Some Dust: Lessons on Thinking Big, Giving Back and Doing It Yourself," Marcus reflected on his life. “I was able to do things my parents could only dream about,” he wrote, emphasizing his focus on helping people he would never meet.

Tributes Highlight An Extraordinary Life

Marcus’s life journey from humble beginnings to transformative achievements serves as an inspiration. His work in the retail sector laid the groundwork for a new way of approaching home improvement, while his philanthropy extended far beyond his business success.

As Home Depot continues to honor his memory, his foundation remains active, ensuring his vision for charitable giving endures. Marcus's contributions have left an indelible mark on countless lives and will continue to inspire future generations.

He is survived by his wife, Billi, and their shared legacy of generosity. Marcus’s influence on both the corporate and philanthropic worlds will not soon be forgotten.