Press Release

Today, NBWA President and CEO Craig Purser issued the following statement:

“While Rocky Wirtz was perhaps best known for his leadership in professional sports, it was his leadership in the spirits, wine and beer industries that provided millions of retailers and consumers with great brands that he cultivated with detail and care. Through this focus, he built the Wirtz Corporation and Breakthru Beverage into true American success stories. But Rocky will be remembered by those who knew him for his congeniality, enthusiasm and kindness. I recall not long after being named president of NBWA being told that I had a phone call from Rocky and his father Bill. At the time, there was a legislative issue heating up in Illinois and I was certain that if they were calling me together, it couldn’t be good news. I was pleasantly surprised as they were calling to say, “congratulations and let us know if there is anything we can do for you.” That was the kind of guy Rocky was, calling to see if you needed anything. He will be missed greatly.”