John F. Geisse, 71, founder, former chairman and chief executive of the Indianapolis-based Wholesale Club that in 1991 was merged with the Wal-Mart Stores, died Friday in Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis. Mr. Geisse, who in 1984 was inducted into the Discount Hall of Fame, also pioneered Target Stores and Venture Stores in the 1960s. In the 1970s, Mr. Geisse started his own consulting business but left that occupation in 1976 for two years to become chief executive of the Indianapolis-based Ayr-Way Stores. In 1982, Mr. Geisse founded the Wholesale Club. He is survived by his wife, Mary; five sons, Larry, Tim, Tom, John K., and Andy; five daughters, Nancy, Kathleen, Sally, Amy, and Terry Dunagan; 15 grandchildren; and a sister. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday in St. Luke`s Catholic Church, Indianapolis.
