Statement on the Passing of Richard E. (Dick) Whitmer from Gregory Sudderth, Chairman of the Board, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
Dick Whitmer’s steady leadership during a turbulent time for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan literally saved the company. Without a leader of such impeccable honesty, Blue Cross would not have been able to rebuild our financial foundation and restore our legislative and regulatory relationships in the late 1980s. Dick guided our company through our unique statutory role as insurer of last resort during the 1990s and early 2000s – ensuring that everyone in Michigan had access to a health insurance plan regardless of pre-existing conditions and that seniors had access to affordable Medicare supplement insurance. Dick’s leadership was truly historic, given the security afforded to millions of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan members over the past four decades provided by the company he saved.
Statement from Tricia Keith, President and CEO, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
Dick Whitmer’s historic, 18-year tenure as President and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan came at a critical time for our company, when Blue Cross had strained relations with stakeholders and was managing through a financial crisis that threatened the security of millions of Blue Cross members. Dick Whitmer’s leadership stabilized Blue Cross’s finances, restored our relationships and helped our company emerge from the crisis it faced in the 1980s. Dick Whitmer was a leader of integrity and fortitude. He put Blue Cross on the path to grow, compete and serve in a new century. He championed transparency and integrity. His tenure was marked by dramatically improved relations between management and labor, founded upon mutual respect and a collaborative spirit. Over his 18 years as our CEO, Dick rallied the company’s employees and stakeholders and proved that good people with good intentions, possessing a passionate vision for their company’s mission, could accomplish great things for the people and communities we serve.
Statement from Daniel J. Loepp, former President and CEO, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
Dick Whitmer was a great friend, mentor and leader. His approach to leadership was humble, yet strong and forthright. When he made decisions, he always prioritized the needs of others. He was deeply committed to his family, his community and his obligations as CEO of Blue Cross. Dick Whitmer’s legacy is the security and peace of mind that millions of Blue Cross members have had, over more than four decades, that their health care will be covered by a company they can trust to always stand behind them.
About Richard Whitmer
Richard E. (Dick) Whitmer was selected acting President and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan in December 1987 and was confirmed to the permanent position in April 1988. Previously, he served as the company’s general counsel. He retired in 2006 and was succeeded by Daniel J. Loepp.
