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KGW video archives: Gert Boyle on women in business, 'tough mother' ads, global growth, branding and philanthropy

Gert Boyle took over Columbia Sportswear when her husband died in 1970. It now sells products in over 100 countries. She died Sunday at 95.

PORTLAND, Ore. — Gert Boyle, the colorful chairwoman of Oregon-based Columbia Sportswear Co. who starred in ads proclaiming her as “One Tough Mother,” died Sunday at a local care center. She was 95.

Boyle took over the small outdoor clothing company in 1970 after her husband died from a heart attack. At the time, she was a 46-year-old housewife and mother of three with no real business experience. But she helped build the struggling company into a national brand and retailer.

Columbia grew and over the years acquired key brands such as Mountain Hardwear, Pacific Trail and Sorel. The company now sells products in more than 100 countries.

Boyle was the first woman inducted into the National Sporting Goods Hall of Fame and often recognized for her work as a female business leader, including a book on her experience.

RELATED: 'One Tough Mother', Gert Boyle, dies at 95

1988 profile on Gert Boyle for series on entrepreneurial women

2000 profile, including famous 'mother' ad footage

Columbia Sportswear moves into 40 countries

2001 Columbia Sportwear moves into new HQ

2009 History Makers profile on Gert Boyle

$100M donation to the Knight Cancer Institute

Gert Boyle hands out pizza, beer at PDX


2018 KGW carpool: Brenda Braxton dishes with Gert Boyle

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