Michael Neidorff, the founder of Centene Corp. and a pillar of the St. Louis business community, died on Thursday at the age of 79.
For 26 years, Neidorff led the Clayton-based company, growing it from a small health-care provider to a Fortune 25 behemoth and the region’s largest company.
Millions of dollars were invested in local charity by him and Centene. And when he asked local officials to do more to combat crime, he sent shockwaves across the area.
Former Clayton Mayor Harold Sanger, who worked closely with Neidorff while the corporation erected and later extended its offices in the city’s business area, termed him a “magnificent human being” and “vital” in Clayton’s success.
Monica Neidorff cause of death: How did Michael Neidorff daughter die?
This was supposed to be Neidorff’s last year at Centene. He had been on a six-week medical leave of absence. He died on Thursday after a long illness, according to a statement from the firm.
Neidorff was the father of Peter Neidorff and the late Monica Neidorff, as well as the brother of Susan Neidorff Reinglass and Robert Neidorff.
The family was unavailable for remark.
