Bob Hitchcock

Bob Hitchcock was the co-founder of Hitchcock's Markets, a Central Florida chain of grocery stores started in 1945 with his father, Robert H. Hitchcock Sr. He served as Alachua City Commissioner for 18 years. He was past president of the Florida Retail Grocer's Association, member of the board of directors of Affiliated of Florida and past commander of American Legion Post 160. He also served as a volunteer fireman for over 20 years.
Early life
Hitchcock was born in Bibb County, Georgia to Robert H. Hitchcock Sr. and Rebie Clyde Harrison. He served in the U.S. Army 103rd Infantry Division during World War II. The family later moved to North Central Florida, where in 1945 Bob and his father founded Hitchcock & Sons Inc., now known as Hitchcock's Markets, opening their first store in Pahokee, Florida.
Moving to Alachua
In 1949, the family moved the business to the City of Alachua, Florida, opening its store on the city's Main Street (which is now renamed Bob Hitchcock's Main Street in honor of Hitchcock's contributions to the community). From there, the business expanded to a total of 11 stores over the following 63 years. Throughout that time period, the grocery chain was a family-run affair. Bob's father, Robert Sr., continued to contribute until his death in 1965. Bob served as president and ran operations in Alachua, Archer, Williston, Anthony, Trenton, Jasper and Monticello. Bob's wife Betty helped operate Hitchcock's supermarkets for many years.
Later years
Hitchcock served on the Alachua City Commission for more than 17 years, including five years as the mayor of Alachua. He served as a volunteer for the Alachua County Fire Department for 20 years. He was very active in the business community as well. He served for 15 years as chairman of the Affiliated of Florida Inc. grocery co-op and also served as a director for the organization. He was the past president of the Florida Retail Grocers Association. He also served as chairman of the board of directors of the First National Bank of Alachua. Hitchcock receive the Florida Retail Grocers Spirit of America Award in 1989. He was commander of the Americal Legion Post in Alachua for two years, and a member of the Alachua Church of Christ. He passed away after a long illness on 4 April 1995.<ref name="Obit" />

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