In Memoriam: Jack Kilduff, former Dr Pepper Co. President

John M. ('Jack') Kilduff, former President/COO of the Dr Pepper Company, passed away July 30.

Jack joined the Dr Pepper Company in 1982 as the New York division manager following 10 years with Procter and Gamble. He rose through the ranks and was senior vice president - sales by 1988. With the purchase of Dr Pepper/Seven Up by Cadbury Schweppes in 1995, Jack was named chief operating officer and in 1997 he added the role of president, a position he held until his retirement in 2002. A native of Philadelphia, he was a graduate of Villanova and served in the United States Marine Corp where he achieved the rank of Captain.

Through Jack's leadership, Dr Pepper Company enjoyed record sales and profits, and Dr Pepper and Diet Dr Pepper grew to become the 6 and 10 largest-selling soft-drink brands in the United States, respectively.

'For many of us at DPS, Jack was a great mentor and friend and will be remembered for his leadership, passion and commitment,' said Jim Johnston, president of beverage concentrates and Latin America Beverages. 'He will be missed by those whose lives he touched.'

Jack is survived by his wife, Frances, five children, and four grandchildren.