Business executive. Former chairman and chief executive officer of General Motors Corporation who began with General Motors in 1949 as an accounting clerk, moved up to treasurer in 1970 and then vice president in 1971. Became chairman and chief executive on Jan. 1, 1981. He led the company as import brands began to expand their market share and as General Motors grew its global business and dealt with tough U.S. environmental and safety standards. Retired in 1990. During his tenure, the company introduced front-wheel-drive midsize cars, formed the NUMMI joint venture with Toyota to manufacture cars in California, created the Saturn automobile, and acquired Electronic Data Systems and Hughes Aircraft Corp. As a result of needed downsizing carried out by General Motors, filmmaker Michael Moore produced a documentary “Roger & Me,” covering the negative economic impact on the city of Flint, Michigan. Died in Detroit. (bio by: Fred Beisser)