CHICAGO (AP) - Gary C. Comer, founder of the Lands' End casual clothing company, has died. He was 78.
Comer, who grew up on Chicago's South Side, died Friday after succumbing to a long battle with cancer, according to statement from University of Chicago Hospitals cited in a story posted on the Chicago Tribune's Web site.
Lands' End President David McCreight said ``American business has lost an icon.''
``Gary Comer was a visionary entrepreneur, whose passion for excellence created a legendary company,'' he said in a statement. ``His adventurous spirit, environmental stewardship and legacy of philanthropic leadership continue to inspire us.''
Comer founded Lands' End in the 1960s and stepped down as president in 1990. He remained chairman of the board and the majority shareholder until the company was sold to Sears, Roebuck & Co. in May 2002.
Comer was known for his philanthropy.
In 2001, he and his wife, Frances, donated $21 million to help build the University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital - matching the largest donation ever to University of Chicago Hospitals, the Lands' End statement said.
``He was a man of unparalleled vision and generosity and we are all enormously indebted to him and his memory,'' said Robert Zimmer, president of the University of Chicago.
