ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – First Midwest Group Founder Sunil Puri, 65, died Sunday from head and neck cancer, according to his family.
Born in Bombay, India in 1960, Puri moved to Rockford in 1979. Five years later he founded First Midwest Group, a commercial real estate development firm.
In 2000, his respected business savvy led him to accompany former President Bill Clinton on a trade exploration trip to South Asia. The two men formed a friendship during that time.
Former President Joe Biden appointed the Rockford College, now Rockford University, graduate to his advisory committee for the John F. Kennedy Center.
While he was known for his success in business, Puri’s philanthropic efforts also stood out in the region. He helped create the local Golden Apple Awards and served on the board for the Rockford Area Economic Development Council, according to his website.
Puri also supported Water For Dignity, which provides safe water to thousands of people in India.
According to the family, a celebration of life will be held Saturday, March 14 at City First Church, 5950 Spring Creek Road. We will share more details as they become available.
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