Bruce Nordstrom, Washington ’55, the revered businessman and former chairman of Nordstrom Inc., passed away May 18 at the age of 90.

Bruce grew up in Seattle and attended the University of Washington where, following in the footsteps of his father and two uncles, on April 7, 1952, he was initiated into the Beta Omega Chapter of Beta Theta Pi. The grandson of John W. Nordstrom, a Swedish immigrant who founded what was originally a shoe store in 1901, he joined the family business in 1958 after serving as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

Bruce became the president of Nordstrom Inc. in 1963 and later served two stints as chairman (1968-1995, 2000-2006). Under his leadership, Nordstrom expanded from a regional chain to a national powerhouse famous for its exceptional customer service and expansive selection of high-quality fashion. He was awarded the Oxford Cup – the Fraternity’s highest honor for professional achievement – at the 161st General Convention in 2000.

Bruce was also a generous philanthropist, championing causes like education, healthcare and the arts. His family’s contributions have left a lasting impact on many institutions, including decades of support of the Beta Foundation via the Beta Leadership Fund and as a major gift donor to its capital campaigns. “Loyalty and pride may be the two things I believe in most,” Bruce once insisted. “I’ve always been proud to say I work at Nordstrom, and I’ve always been proud to say I’m a Beta.”

Remembered for his compassion, humility and unwavering commitment to his family and community, he was married for 25 years to his Beta Sweetheart, Fran, before her passing in 1984, producing three Washington Beta sons – Blake ’82, Peter ’84, and Erik ’85 – and numerous grandchildren. The Fraternity boasts 10 proud Nordstrom Beta alumni in all. He remarried in 1988, now leaving behind his beloved wife of 35 years, Jeannie.

May Brother Bruce Nordstrom, Roll No. 859 of the Beta Omega Chapter of Beta Theta Pi, rest in peace. Forever in ___kai___.

In 1944, Donald Petersen, Washington ’46, enrolled at the University of Washington while concurrently serving the U.S. Navy during World War II. In a matter of just two years, he joined Beta Theta Pi (initiated October 15, 1944; Roll Number 651), earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and married his Beta Sweetheart, Jo Anne. After graduation, he received his MBA from Stanford University and attended boot camp and basic training for the Marine Corps, serving in the Korean War from January 1951 until June 1952.

Beginning in 1949, Petersen spent 41 years with Ford Motor Company. He was named the company’s president and chief operating officer in 1980 and became chairman of the board in 1985. His inclusive, team-oriented and visionary management style is credited for saving the company during this time, notably with the introduction of the Ford Taurus and his commitment to “saving the soul” of the Ford Mustang. He was hailed a “Most Valuable Person” in 1988 by USA Today and “CEO of the Year” by Chief Executive Magazine in 1989. He went on to lend his talents to various other entities, including service on the boards of The Boeing Company, Dow Jones & Co., Hewlett-Packard Company and the University of Washington Foundation.

Because of his professional accomplishments, the Fraternity bestowed upon Petersen the Oxford Cup in 2011. In his lifetime, he also received the University of Washington’s Distinguished Alumnus Award, the Stanford Business School Alumni Association’s Arbuckle Award and Brookgreen Gardens’ American Achievement Award, among others.

May Brother Don Petersen, Roll No. 651 of the Beta Omega Chapter of Beta Theta Pi, rest in peace. Forever in ___kai___.