ATLANTA — The Atlanta community lost an icon of the business community whose donation helped create one of the city’s most beloved attractions.
Bernie Marcus, who died on Monday at the age of 95, “devoted his life to creating jobs and economic development but most importantly, giving back to communities around our state, nation and world,” Lt. Governor Burt Jones said in a statement.
Marcus is best remembered as the co-founder of The Home Depot. He was its first CEO and first chairman until he retired in 2002. He also contributed $250 million to the launch of Georgia Aquarium, which opened in Downtown Atlanta in 2005.
“We wouldn’t be here without him,” Georgia Aquarium’s Dan Dipiazzo told WSB-TV.
The funeral for Marcus, a New Jersey native whose philanthropy efforts also include the founding of the Marcus Foundation, was held today at The Temple in midtown Atlanta.
“The companies he started, the jobs he created and the lives he touched through charity and volunteer work will continue to impact lives and our state for generations,” Jones said.
“His business acumen and dedication to improving the lives of many is unmatched,” Jones added. “Everyone who knew Bernie or was impacted by his generosity is blessed and it was an honor to have an icon like him call Georgia home.”
