Sibling Who Co-founded Canada's Longo's Dies

Joe Longo Sr., who co-founded with two of his brothers the popular Canadian grocery chain Longo Brothers Fruit Markets, better known as Longo's, has died after a long illness. He was 70 years old.

A native of Sicily, Longo and his brothers Tommy and Gus opened their first fruit and vegetable market in Toronto 52 years ago. There are now 16 family-owned Longo's stores in the greater Toronto area, employing over 3,000 associates. The company is based in Mississauga, Ont.

"Joe did everything in his life with passion," noted Longos president and c.e.o. Anthony Longo, the nephew of Joe Sr., on a blog on the grocer's Web site, wwwlongos.com. "Highly regarded for his incredible vision and ability to create colorful, innovative, and dynamic merchandising displays, Joe inspired everyone around him with his warm personality and playful sense of humor. Joe's dedication to exceeding customer expectations was second to none."

The blog also provided information on funeral arrangements and a place for visitors to offer condolences.

In addition to his nephew Anthony, Joe Longo is survived by his wife of 42 years, Teresa; four children; five grandchildren; a brother, Sal; and two sisters.
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