History

Robert J. Trulaske, Jr. was a native St. Louisan and buisness leader who prioritized his family and community. Rob had a profound appreciation for the natural environment. Being an enthusiastic outdoorsman, Rob enjoyed long hikes, hunting and fishing in his spare time. Rob was a true Cardinals fan who consistently attended games and almost never left early. Rob's mother, Geraldine (Gerry) left a St. Louis Browns game early in order to be at the hospital  for Rob's birth on June 8, 1949. Rob graduated from Ladue High School (class of '67) where he excelled as a member of the swim and track teams. Rob was an avid runner who occasionally competed in half-marathons. Water skiiing, tennis and golf were favorite activities shared with family and friends.

After graduating from the University of Missouri - Columbia (class of '71), Rob joined his father Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. in the commercial refrigeration industry at True Manufacturing Company in O’Fallon, Missouri. As President of True Food Service, Rob led a division of the company which manufactured coolers for restaurants and chains (ie. fast food, convenience stores, coffee shops). The company grew significantly during Rob's career and in 2004, he became CEO. Rob's success made it possible for him to generously support a wide range of nonprofit organizations serving the St. Louis community. 

Rob's son Christopher James Trulaske was born in 1981 with Downs Syndrome. In the early 2000s, Christopher and the Riverview School GROW program inspired Rob to establish St. Louis Life, an individualized living program for adults with disabilities in Winghaven, Missouri.

Rob was a Mizzou fan who actively supported the University's athletic department and business school. Rob, his mother Geraldine, and family, honored Robert J. Trulaske, Sr.'s legacy with a major contribution to the University of Missouri Business School, named the Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business in 2007.

In the same year, Rob formally established his Family Foundation. He invited trusted family members and experienced advisors to serve on the board. Rob defined the Foundation's mission statement and grant guidelines in order to lead with his values including natural resource conservation (see mission and vision pages). 

The Foundation board meets regularly to ensure that the Foundation supports organizations which align with Rob's vision (see program areas, guidelines and preferences).