David Grainger, former CEO of W.W. Grainger, has died at 97, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and philanthropy.
Grainger was also deeply involved in philanthropy through his family foundation, supporting various educational and medical institutions. He was known for his hands-on approach to problem-solving, benefiting many organizations, including the Museum of Science and Industry.
Born in Chicago and raised in Hinsdale, Grainger graduated from Phillips Exeter Academy and earned a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He briefly worked for Franklin Electric before joining his family’s company in 1952.
Under his leadership, W.W. Grainger expanded significantly, securing national supply contracts and acquiring companies in new industries. He was proactive in modernizing the company’s technology to improve efficiency.
Grainger began preparing for succession in 1992, eventually stepping down as CEO in 1995 but remaining as chairman until 1997. He served on several corporate boards and was instrumental in significant donations, including a $100 million gift to the University of Illinois.
His foundation also helped establish a distribution management program at the University of Wisconsin, which has become a leading program in the U.S. Grainger was a life trustee of Rush University Medical Center and the Museum of Science and Industry.
He had a lifelong passion for trains, which led him to support the restoration of the Pioneer Zephyr train at the museum. Grainger enjoyed golfing and traveling, and he is survived by his three children and four grandchildren. Services will be private.
