OshKosh B'Gosh Operating Chief Passes Away

OshKosh B'Gosh, Inc. (Oshkosh, Wis.) has announced that Mike Wachtel, executive vp and coo, died May 25, 2002, following a long battle with cancer. Mr. Wachtel was 48 at the time of his death.

David Omachinski, vp, cfo and treasurer, will add Wachtel's role as executive vp and coo. William Wyman, vp of domestic licensing, has been promoted to senior vp of global licensing. Paul Lowry, vp of corporate retail, has been appointed to replace Wachtel on the board of directors.

Lowry has held the position of vp of corporate retail at the company since 1994, responsible for all retail store operations and the company's e-commerce business. He had previously spent three years as vp of retail operations for Essex Outfitters, Inc., at the time a wholly owned subsidiary of OshKosh B'Gosh. Before that, he had held several retail management positions with the Woolworth Co. The Little Folks Shop.

“All of us are deeply saddened by the untimely loss of our friend and colleague,” said chairman, president and ceo Douglas Hyde. “Throughout Mike's tenure with the company, his contributions to our success were immeasurable. His enthusiasm, hard work and dedication will be truly missed.”

OshKosh B'Gosh produces and sells its trademark overalls, plus other apparel, car seats, strollers, toys and kids'bedding (some made by licensees), through about 4340 stores in the U.S. and abroad plus about 140 outlet and specialty stores of its own.