DAN Wieden, the ad executive and legend coined Nike’s famous tagline, “Just do it,” died on Friday at age 77.
At his home in Portland, Oregon, next to his wife, Wieden passed away in his sleep.
He co-founded Wieden + Kennedy with his late business partner David Kennedy, which is most recognised for its work for the sneaker industry.
Due to the company’s clever slogans and messages grabbing clients’ attention, it became known for hurling itself into the public glare.
Wieden stepped down from an active position in 2015 but didn’t technically leave the company; he continued to serve as chairman.
“We are heartbroken. But even more so, we are overcome with gratitude and love,” the firm said in a statement. “Thank you Dan, for throwing the doors wide open for people to live up to their full potential.
“Thank you for your steadfastness, courage, faith and abiding love. Thank you for making this beautiful creative life possible. We will miss you so much.”
Wieden, who was born in Oregon in 1945, graduated from the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism and Communication in 1967 after attending Ulysses S. Grant High School.
After working in public relations for a while, Wieden moved into advertising and quickly discovered he was good at it.
Before working on the Nike brand, he and Kennedy were employed by a tiny Portland advertising agency.
The pair’s talents were spotted by Nike co-founder Phil Knight, who suggested they launch their own firm, which they did in 1982.
In addition to Portland, Wieden+Kennedy also has offices in London, Amsterdam, New York, Delhi, Shanghai, Tokyo, and So Paulo.
On October 12, 2021, Kennedy passed away in his Estacada, Oregon, home.
Priscilla Bernard, Wieden’s wife, is still alive.