RNDC Interim CEO Bob Hendrickson Passes Away At 65
October 20, 2025Republic National Distributing Co. (RNDC) is mourning the loss of longtime executive Bob Hendrickson, who passed away Friday, October 17 at the age of 65. Hendrickson, who spent 42 years in the industry—including nearly four decades with RNDC and its predecessor companies—had transitioned to an advisory role last year after serving as the distributor’s COO for 15 years. Earlier this year, he returned as interim CEO of RNDC following the departure of previous chief executive Nick Mehall.
In a statement, RNDC said “Bob’s strategic vision, operational excellence, and mentorship have shaped generations of leaders and established RNDC as one of the nation’s most respected wine and spirits distributors. From the early days of Republic Beverage Company in 1997, through the 2007 merger that created the RNDC we know today, Bob’s leadership, integrity, and passion guided every chapter, reaching suppliers, customers, and colleagues across the country.”
With Hendrickson’s passing, RNDC has named board member Marc Sachs as interim CEO and president. Sachs has been with the company for two decades and brings “a deep understanding of RNDC’s business, relationships, and people” to the role, the company noted. Meanwhile, Jay Johnson, previously RNDC’s West region president, has been tapped as a special advisor throughout the transition. The company’s board is continuing its search for a new permanent CEO.
“Bob believed success came from the people around him,” said Sachs. “He was not only a trusted leader but a dear friend whose warmth, generosity, and unwavering loyalty inspired everyone who knew him. Bob built teams grounded in accountability, loyalty, and collaboration—a culture that continues to define RNDC today. Undoubtedly, his legacy will be felt for generations to come.”—Daniel Marsteller
