WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — Following Donna Tweeten’s passing on April 8, Hy-Vee Chairman and CEO Jeremy Gosch is remembering her as a transformative leader whose influence extended far beyond the company’s marketing organization.
In a LinkedIn statement, Gosch emphasized Tweeten’s role as both a strategic architect of Hy-Vee’s brand and a mentor across the organization, noting her impact over a 40-year career that helped elevate the regional grocer into a nationally recognized retail name.
Tweeten, Hy-Vee’s first female president, joined the company in 2006 and served as chief marketing officer before becoming president. She retired in January 2025 but remained active as a consultant until her death.
Her leadership was instrumental in modernizing Hy-Vee’s marketing approach, including forging high-profile partnerships with athletes such as Caitlin Clark, Patrick Mahomes, and Travis Kelce, which helped expand the retailer’s reach and cultural relevance.
“We are simply heartbroken by the sudden loss of Donna Tweeten,” Gosch said. “Not only was Donna a trailblazer across Hy-Vee and the retail industry, she was a true friend and mentor to many, myself included.”
Gosch added that Tweeten’s legacy will endure through the company’s continued focus on brand innovation and customer engagement, as well as through the many leaders she mentored during her tenure.
Tweeten, who had recently been diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer, remained engaged with the company up until her passing.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. Hy-Vee said it will share additional details as they become available and extended condolences to Tweeten’s family.
