Remembering Bill Stoller: The Legacy of Oregon’s Beloved Wine Entrepreneur at 74

Bill Stoller, who founded the Stoller Wine Group, has passed away at the age of 74. His death was confirmed by his company, though no cause was provided. Stoller was a prominent figure in Oregon’s winemaking industry, establishing Stoller Wine Group in the Willamette Valley in 1993. He received numerous accolades during his career, including a lifetime achievement award from the Oregon Wine Board association and the Diploma of Honor from the Fédération Internationale des Confréries Bachiques.

Known for his humility and kindness, Stoller was described by Gary Mortensen, president of Stoller Wine Group, as someone who believed in the philosophy of "doing well by doing well by others." Beyond his achievements in winemaking, he was also an entrepreneur in various sectors. In 1983, he co-founded Express Employment International, which has since expanded to hundreds of franchise locations globally. Additionally, in 2020, he acquired the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum near Dayton, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing the economic viability of his home community.

Stoller leaves behind a significant legacy in both the wine industry and local economic development.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!