Wilbur Fix (1945)

Wilbur Fix was raised in Longview and began an illustrious career that understood the importance of customer service. From his first job as a newspaper boy for the Longview News Journal to the CEO of one of the most important retail stores in America, he kept his focus. While attending R.A. Long he was a member of the Glee Club for three years and Knights of the Axe and Hi Y his senior year. Wilbur had a part in the Senior Play where he also sang a solo. After graduation he joined the U.S. Army. Following his military tour, Wilbur attended the University of Washington and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in industrial management. He began his retail career as a trainee for the Bon Marche in Yakima and was promoted to operations manager and controller in Boise, Idaho. In 1958 he was transferred to Seattle to continue his work in finance and administration. Mr. Fix was promoted to senior vice-president in 1970 and later became executive V.P. In 1978 he was named President and in 1980 became CEO. He was elected vice president of Allied Stores Corp. in 1986 and senior V.P. a year later. Mr. Fix is now retired from retail management but retains an active role in personal and philanthropic projects. Mr. Fix recently had his first book published titled “Go to the Edge of Disaster” which has been highly recommended as a must read book for everyone who wants to understand how company growth can happen.