Creator of Yoke's Fresh Market dies at 92

WASHINGTON, -- Creator of Yoke's Foods, Inc., Charles "Chuck" Marshall Yoke, has passed away according to representatives for the supermarket chain.

Yoke passed away at his Spokane home on July 21, 2021 at the age of 92, according to representatives.

In 1953 Charles Yoke's parents' ran a single Grocery Store in Deer Park, Washington. He formed a partnership with his father, adding check-outs, shopping carts, and refrigerated display cases according to officials for the company.

In 1960, officials say Yoke took over the full ownership of Yoke's Foods. Yoke is said to have been one of the first in the area to add full-service delis, pharmacies and floral departments.

"Chuck Yoke always remained loyal to the people that helped him build the Yoke’s grocery empire," said representatives.

"In 1990, he sold the stores to his employees, leading the way for employee-owned enterprise in the Northwest."

Yoke is a native of Eastern Washington, born in Spokane and growing up in Plaza and Deer Park according to officials.

Yoke attended Washington State University where he earned a degree in marketing and sales management, before serving in the Air Force.

Chuck was preceded in death by his son, Steve Yoke. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Gwen; their five children, 20 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, five step great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter, according to representatives.

The company Yoke created is based in Spokane, Washington. There are currently 17 stores in Washington and Idaho and has 1,615 employees according to representatives.