Eddie Basha, Jr.

Edward Najeeb Basha, Jr. (August 24, 1937 – March 26, 2013), was the Chairman & CEO of Bashas', Inc., a grocer in Arizona His father, Eddie Basha, Sr. and his uncle Ike Basha, founded Bashas' in 1932. The first store under the Bashas' banner was opened in Chandler, Arizona.^[1][2]

Early life and education

Basha was born in Chandler, Arizona, where his father owned a grocery business. The Bashas were originally from the country of Lebanon, entering the United States by way of New York City. They moved from New York City to Arizona in 1910.^[3] He graduated from Chandler High School and then obtained a degree in History at Stanford University.

Career

Bashas' was founded by Eddie Basha Sr. and brother Ike Basha. Upon the death of Ike, Eddie Basha, Sr. continued running Bashas'. Eddie Basha Jr. took full control of the family business upon the death of his father.^[3] Beginning in 1968, Basha expanded the small company to a nationwide chain of 160 stores.^[3]

Basha ran an unsuccessful campaign as the Democratic nominee against incumbent Arizona Governor Fife Symington in 1994. He was a supporter of many charitable and civic causes, particularly working with education and the poor in Arizona. He supported same-sex marriage during his gubernatorial campaign, years before it became an issue for contemporary society in the early 21st century.^[4]

Personal life and death

Basha was a member of the Roman Catholic Church. Basha died on March 26, 2013 and is survived by his wife Nadine Mathis Basha, and sons Eddie III, Ike, Mike, David, Josh and Jeremy.^[3]

References