Stew Leonard Jr. Comes To Rescue Of Choking Person In NYC

NORWALK, CT — At a New York television news station this week, Stew Leonard Jr., the president and CEO of the Stew Leonard's grocery store chain, saved the life of a choking person by performing the Heimlich maneuver on them, according to a post on the store's Facebook page.

"After a recent guest segment at a NYC news station (following a mouthwatering steak recipe demo!), Stew was on his way out when something unexpected happened—someone in the studio began choking on a piece of the steak," officials wrote. "Without hesitation, Stew stepped in and performed the Heimlich maneuver, a skill he learned through life-saving training taken as part of his commitment to Stewie the Duck Swim School."

Leonard, the jovial leader of the grocery chain, has always placed people first, and created the Stewie the Duck Swim School, after losing son, Stewie III, in a pool accident in 1989.

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"We’ve always known Stew Leonard Jr. to be a leader who leads with heart—but the other day, he showed just how deep that heart goes," officials wrote.

The popular store chain is known for its friendly staff, whimsical displays and promotions, and loyal customers.

The family run chain was founded in Norwalk in 1969, and now has locations in Danbury and Newington; Yonkers, Farmingdale, and East Meadow, New York; and in Clifton and Paramus, New Jersey.

"Stew would never call himself a hero," officials said. "But we saw it with our own eyes, and we know: he saved a life. Stew, we’re incredibly proud of you."