David Sandler, executive vice chairman of MSC Industrial Supply Co. and a former CEO, died on July 11 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 59.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of David,” Erik Gershwind, president and CEO, who succeeded Sandler as top executive in 2013, said in announcing his death on Monday. “His accomplishments at MSC were many. He successfully led MSC through a significant period of growth, as well as through difficult economic conditions while remaining committed to our core values.”

Sander joined MSC in 1989 after the company acquired Dancorp, a supplier of industrial products. After serving in several executive positions in sales, human resources, information technology and product management, he was named president and 2003 and CEO two years later. In 2013, he was named executive vice chairman.

During Sandler’s tenure as CEO, MSC’s e-commerce sales steadily increased to more than 40% of total net sales, surpassing $1 billion for the first time in 2013 when he left the chief executive position to become executive vice chairman.

The company’s focus on e-commerce has continued, with its e-commerce sales now accounting for nearly 60% of total sales. Last month, MSC received the B2B E-Commerce Player of the Year award at IRCE 2016 for its innovative online buying features and its overall focus on e-commerce. The company sells online at MSCDirect.com.

Sandler was also remembered for his way with people and the help he provided to employees. “His greatest contribution,” Gershwind said, “was the many people and lives he touched, with the careers he helped shape and the coaching and mentoring he provided. His legacy will have a lasting impact on our culture. Our heartfelt condolences go out to David’s family and loved ones.”

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