Alan G. Hassenfeld, Former Hasbro CEO, Passes Away

Alan G. Hassenfeld, known for his philanthropic efforts and as the former CEO of Hasbro Inc., has died at the age of 76. Hasbro, famous for creating toys like G.I. Joe and Play-Doh, shared the news but didn’t divulge further details about his passing.

Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Hassenfeld graduated from Deerfield Academy in Massachusetts and later earned a degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1970.

He joined Hasbro, which his grandfather founded in 1923, shortly after graduating. Initially, the company, known as Hassenfeld Brothers, sold textile remnants before diversifying into school supplies and, eventually, toys in the 1940s. The Hasbro name came into use during this expansion, particularly with the launch of popular products starting in 1968.

Hassenfeld held various roles within the company. Notably, he became a special assistant to the president and was pivotal in developing Hasbro’s international business, which required extensive travel. By 1980, he was named Executive Vice President, eventually becoming president in 1984.

He often worked alongside his brother Stephen, who passed away in 1989. After his brother’s death, Hassenfeld transitioned into the roles of chairman and CEO. He stepped down as CEO in 2003 but remained chairman until 2005, later becoming an honorary chairman. According to Hasbro, he was the last family member to serve on the board.

In an emotional statement, Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks remembered Hassenfeld as a cherished mentor and friend. He described him as having “an enormous heart” and emphasized his commitment to spreading joy to children around the world. Cocks noted that Hassenfeld’s advocacy for children’s welfare and the toy industry created a lasting legacy.

A strong advocate for numerous charitable causes, Hassenfeld addressed issues like childhood hunger and helped address the needs of refugees in Rhode Island. He led the Hassenfeld Family Initiative, which aimed to improve safety and human rights in children’s products while also empowering women in developing countries.

Additionally, he played a significant role in supporting Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence and contributed to establishing the Hassenfeld Child Health Innovation Institute at Brown University.