Remembering Robert Charles Hunter: A Life of Achievement and Love
Robert Charles Hunter, the former CEO of PepsiCo Food Systems and a talented author, has passed away at the age of 77. His family shared the heartbreaking news that he died on Thursday in Texas while visiting his children.
Hunter dedicated 23 years of his career to PepsiCo, the powerhouse behind popular brands like Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and KFC, spending 11 of those years as CEO. In 1999, he partnered with three-time Oscar-nominated actress Diane Ladd, whom he married that same year, to co-found Exxcell Entertainment in Ojai, California, with a mission to produce captivating films. His acting credits include a memorable role as Detective Hutchinson in David Lynch’s 2006 thriller "Inland Empire," which also starred Ladd and her daughter, Oscar-winning actress Laura Dern.
Born in Germany on April 2, 1948, Hunter was not just a business leader but also an accomplished author. His literary works include the novel "Curious Journey: Origins," published in 2008, and its 2011 sequel, "Curious Journey: Energy." His family noted that these books reflected his deep intellect and curiosity about the world around him.
Hunter had a profound love for Texas, where he found solace and joy in the expansive skies and warm spirit of Fort Worth. His family shared that returning to Texas felt like "coming back to the rhythm of my heart," a sentiment that resonated deeply with him.
The love story between Hunter and Ladd began in Sedona, Arizona. In her 2023 memoir, Ladd recalled their initial meeting during a time of self-reflection for Hunter, who had recently divorced and retired at the age of 50.
In addition to his beloved wife and stepdaughter, Hunter is survived by his children—Brandon, Amy, and Emily—and ten cherished grandchildren. Diane Ladd, now 89, is celebrated for her remarkable acting career, including her Academy Award nominations for "Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore" (1974), Lynch’s "Wild at Heart" (1990), and "Rambling Rose" (1991). Ladd was previously married to two-time Oscar-nominated actor Bruce Dern from 1960 to 1969 and businessman William Shea Jr. from 1973 to 1976.
Robert Charles Hunter leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and a remarkable career that touched many lives. He will be dearly missed.
