Sunday, October 30, 2022
3:00 pm CDT
Reception Immediately Following
Graham Memorial Chapel
on the Campus of
Washington University in St. Louis.
6475 Forsyth Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63105
Map
Danforth University Center,
6475 Forsyth Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63105
Business Attire
Ritz Carlton, 100 Carondelet Plaza,
St Louis, MO 63105
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Other Hotel Options
Chapel and Parking is ADA Accessible
Golf Cart Transportation Available
"I will forever cherish the personal tour Mr. Neidorff gave David Katzman and me of the Centene headquarters. He was so gracious and generous with his time and a true visionary leader in St. Louis and the world. He is greatly missed."
"I never seen a more loyal, down to earth person whose heart was filled with compassion and love for his fellow human. Michael was someone that would argue with you for opening the car door for him. I miss the jokes. I will miss our talks on world politics, the Cardinals and the Yankees and especially where is the best place to get sable in NYC. Most of all I will miss his friendship and his life guidance. He always picked up your phone. The last time I saw him he turned to me in the car and says Mike I am talking to as your uncle please do not get upset. That was last life guidance he gave me. Rest in Peace Uncle Michael."
"I worked for Centene for the past few years and when we were all still in the office you would often find Mr. Neidorff in the cafeteria or in the elevator and he always took the time to ask how your day was. He was a man that truly cared about the people around him and I was proud to work for him."
"I have been very blessed to have had some very, very good people in my life but nobody was ever kinder or better to me than Michael F. Neidorff. I am a former United States Marine. The highest award that the Marine Corps gives to individuals who have helped our active duty Marines and their children achieve the dream of a college education is the Semper Fidelis Award. I am proud and honored to say that the Semper Fidelis Award was presented to Michael Neidorff in 2015. Semper Fidelis is the oath every Marine takes. It's a simple Latin phrase that means: "Always Faithful", but it is an oath that has no expiration date. It's how Marines are supposed to live our lives. Michael Neidorff was "Always Faithful" to his beautiful wife Noemi, his children Monica and Peter, and to all of us who were blessed to have been drawn into his solar system. So Michael I offer this salutation to you in the highest traditions of the United Staes Marine Corps 'Semper Fidelis Boss'"
"I will never forget being a newly contracted employee going into the Cafe early one morning for some breakfast. While getting some yogurt as I topped it with fresh strawberries and honey granola, I noticed just to my side was this quiet and very well-dressed gentleman getting himself some oatmeal that conveyed a presence I couldn't quite understand. Whatever it was that existed compelled me to turn and say Good Morning. Kindly he reciprocated with a friendly Good Morning and asked how I was doing. Oddly that same kind of interaction in the Cafe happened a few other times. It was not until after riding on the elevator with him that as he went on striding, I stopped to converse with front security to ask about how the day was going. It was then that I discovered who this man was. I will never forget those close encounters with Mr. Neidorff and his humble nature. I never once would have guessed that it was our CEO next to me at those times. He did not display being under the stress of the significant decisions due to be faced within the hours to come. The body language demonstrated was that of another employee ready to begin a new day."
"I love to tell new people on pour team when asked about Mr. Neidorff I was new to the company about 2 weeks, I went to the cafeteria to get some breakfast and I talked with this man at the fruit buffet and in line. We talked for only about 5 mins but he was amazing, energetic, enthusiastic, and very, very cheerful. Appeared to be so interested in what I was talking about. We went our separate ways and when I got back to my desk i told my co-worker about "the cutest little man I just ran into" Keith asked me to describe him and I did. He then proceeded to pull up a picture of Mr. Neidorff and asked if that was him. I was shocked to say the least because it was just a causal conversation with who I thought was the nicest i had run into in a long time, then of course I went through my conversation with him in my head to be sure I did not say anything stupid, HAHA. He never once made me feel as if he was superior to me, just another random polite, lovely person that he was. I will remember that moment the rest of my life"
"While Michael contributed to many civic initiatives to advance St. Louis, I'd like to share one about which most people are unaware. Back in 2013-2015, when the City of St. Louis was in the midst of a fierce Site Selection competition to both retain the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) western HQ and its 3,100 employees, as well as succeed in winning the award of the $1.75-billion new western HQ to be built in North St. Louis at the 1,500-acre NorthSide Regeneration development ---Michael made a critical financial contribution to enable the St. Louis civic campaign to successfully compete for and to win the project. Like so many other civic contributions, Michael's went unnoticed and was thanks to his steadfast commitment to St. Louis."
"A meaningful time to remember Michael's generous leadership. May his memory live on as a blessing through the impact of his words and actions."
"Michael was a giant with a big heart and an extraordinary mind. He was a force of nature. His extraordinary generosity impacted many people and organizations. Before all, Michael was a husband to Noémi and a father to Peter and Monica. They were everything to him. We will ensure to honor his legacy in music and never forget the lives he impacted."
"Michael was the reason I moved my family to Saint Louis. He was an incredible leader and I value the time he shared with me. His purpose and commitment to our team was inspiring and resulted in a better healthcare industry. He is already missed in our community and industry where he gave so much of himself. His legacy lives on in the lives and careers of so many including myself. He made a very positive impact and will be remembered forever."
"It has taken a while to try to even express what this man meant to me. He was a leader, a mentor, an inspiration, a father figure, and a legacy. He was one of the most selfless and humble people I have ever met. He made me a better person through his examples of charity and doing what is right. His smile could light up the darkest night and his humor could put anyone at ease. He was a visionary that changed the world. There will never be another Michael and I feel so very honored to have known him and worked side by side with him. He was the heart and soul of Centene. He was a titan of healthcare but would give the shirt off his back if it meant it would help someone live a better life. He is what we all should strive to be. Michael, you were loved so much. The loss we feel is staggering. You will be forever in your hearts. Always. God bless you Noemi, Peter, Susan, and the Neidorff family."
"Michael was a visionary, a transformational and inspiring leader. He was a kind, generous man, a gentleman. He was a family man, a man of faith and always conducted himself with integrity. Through his company, he served millions of vulnerable individuals and employed tens of thousands of people. I know no one smarter, wiser or harder working than him. He was truly unique. He had a great sense of humor. He loved his family so much, and was devoted to them. It was heartwarming to watch. I had the privilege to work very closely with Michael, and I learned so much from him. I learned about healthcare, about courageous and responsible leadership, about being of service to others and giving back, doing the right thing, thinking strategically —many steps ahead. He would often asked if I was having fun working at Centene. I would always tell him yes. It was fun, it was challenging, it was ever growing and evolving. It was truly a privilege to be part of his team. Michael was a mentor and a father figure to me. He truly changed my life, and my family’s life for the better. He will forever be in our hearts. He will be deeply missed."
"Among so many memories, one of my favorites relates to a day that I made a short-notice visit to have lunch with Michael. This was shortly after Centene opened their service center in Ferguson. I was in Chicago, and had some unscheduled time. I called, and Michael confirmed that he would be available the next day. I arrived at STL, and jumped in a taxi. I told the driver I was heading to 7700 Forsyth. The driver told me that I must be going to Centene, and I confirmed that he was correct. The taxi driver's next comment was "that's what the world needs more." I asked him to clarify, and he was quite specific: he said we needed more Michael Neidorffs. I immediately knew that my driver was expressing his respect for Michael's leadership in the wake of the horrible events that occurred in Ferguson, and how he wanted to make some type of statement to the people who lived there. I told the driver that I understood his comment, but privately I just felt proud to know Michael. His genuine concern always rested with those in need and people who are less fortunate. Alav hashalom."
"Michael loved rice pudding! Whenever I would come to St. Louis, or he would come to NY, he would often ask me to bring him some from the deli in my hometown of Bronxville, NY. He would also tell me not to tell Noémi! I met Michael as an early investor in Centene, but we became friends, and he was a mentor to me. His love of family and friends, particularly his co-workers at Centene, were most important to him. I remember walking with him in the headquarters and was struck by how many people he knew by first name asking them how things were going at work and at home. Friends and family were his oxygen and he thrived with people around him. I am a better man knowing Michael and his beloved Noemi. May God bless Noemi and Peter and all who knew and loved Michael."
"Michael and I had a very special personal relationship for the last ten years or so. We both served on the Trinity Board and both always seemed to connect whenever he was in town for Board meetings. We visited a lot about west Texas ranching and I always encouraged him to come see what a real Texas working ranch was like. But, unfortunately we never had that opportunity. He was totally committed to his alma mater, and played a lead role in fundraising and was personally responsible for many meaningful gifts to his school. His service as Trinity’s Chairman was something he took very seriously and I know it was really special to him. I had the good fortune to have a telephone visit with him shortly before his passing. I will always remember him for so many reasons, but especially as a good personal friend. He will be missed by all that knew him."
"When we think of our cousin, Michael Neidorff, we are thinking of a gentlemen who was gifted with many noble characteristics. He was kindhearted and generous to his family as well as to his community. He knew how to relate to many different people from all walks of life. He used his innate talents to give to his family and to his community. He had a charming personality which shone through and was reflected by his many deeds both in words and his actions. His engaging smile revealed a unique sense of humor which he possessed. He enhanced many people's lives to set them on a positive and productive path. Michael will be remembered as an individual who was dedicated to his family as well as to his community. His kind demeanor and his good deeds will be remembered by many people who were fortunate to know him. We express our deepest condolences for this heavy loss and the huge void his passing created. May his legacy live on in the hearts and minds of all the people whose lives he touched."
"Michael was an inspiration. May his memory be a blessing to many. He led such a consequential life for so many people and for the St. Louis community. I miss him. I am sad I am unable to attend as I had been committed to speak in person to the consortium of South American Urologic societies. My wife Dorothy and son Nick will be there as will I in spirit."
"Michael was an inspiration, a one-of-a-kind leader, and mentor. I learned so much from him, in business as well as life lessons. I will always appreciate everything he taught me and cherish the time we spent together. He was a brain to pick, an ear to listen, and when you needed it, a kick in the right direction. He will be greatly missed."
"Michael's love for Trinity University ran deep, and he was so proud of all things Trinity. In fact, he founded a chapter here in St. Louis and created many spaces for graduates of all generations to connect through shared activities and events. Whether it was a suite (or two) every year at the St. Louis Cardinals game, a chance to hear a lecture from a TU professor and see a wonderful art collection at his lovely Clayton home, Michael helped us to built a supportive network of alums in St. Louis and make it a standout chapter! I now have the opportunity to co-teach a sports philanthropy class in the Michael F. Neidorff School of Business School and had sent a note to him sharing how our students at Trinity connected back to St. Louis - full circle - which I knew he would be proud to know. Thankful for Michael and his many contributions to my adopted town - his presence here will never be forgotten. I am grateful for all the ways he connected people, institutions and big ideas - generously supporting and holding those around him accountable. May his memory be a blessing."
"There are so many happy memories of Michael that I hold in my mind's eye and heart, but one that I will always carry with me was a simple gesture that epitomizes his care and kindness. It took place in the late 80's, I believe, just as mobile phones were a novelty and coming on the market. Before traveling to my parents' home in Kansas the day before Thanksgiving, I stopped at Noemi and Michael's home on Overhills Drive to wish them a happy holiday. As I was leaving, Michael asked what my plans were if the weather turned bad or if I had car trouble on the road. I shrugged and just said that I'm sure I wouldn't have trouble and that I would be fine. Michael was not satisfied with my answer, and he immediately handed me his mobile phone to take with me. "If you have car trouble or run into bad weather, just use this phone. I insist!" Refusing his kind offer was not an option, and so on that Thanksgiving holiday I traveled with a little more confidence knowing that I would make it safely to my destination. And yes, I returned the phone! Thank you, Michael, for your care, friendship, humor, brilliance, warmth, and that quintessential Michael Neidorff smile, all of which is sorely, sorely missed."
"I want to extend my heartfelt support to Noemi and all of Michael's loved ones. Michael and Noemi welcomed me and our family to St. Louis. They created a warm circle of support and connection as we engaged with our new home community. Michael provided wise counsel to me and colleagues at the Brown School at WashU. Not only did Michael and Noemi invest in supporting the deanship, but Michael became a calm advisor as we grappled with a pandemic, while continuing to fulfill our commitment to impactful scholarship, education and community partnerships. Michael proactively sent me articles and notes for consideration. He also cared a great deal for our graduate students in social work, public health and social policy and helped us to craft bold goals for student support. He invested in platforms for rapidly translating new knowledge to improve the health of those in our region and nationally. He was generous, wise and challenging. I could not be more grateful for his support!"
"Michael was very passionate about educating young people in money management, entrepreneurial thinking, and helping young people focus on careers that align with their interests. I personally have been in awe of Michael’s passion to make our community and world a better place by preparing young people to be ready for their future."
"I am friends with Michael's son, Peter. We attended college together at Webster University and have remained good friends since. I had the pleasure of meeting Michael twice, and what I was struck by the most was how personable he was. Not at all what one might have expected from the prototypical, high-powered CEO. All these years later, his cheerful, pleasant demeanor have stayed with me. I can think of few better epitaphs, particularly considering the number of lives he touched in such a similarly positive way."
"I had the honor of sharing a dinner with Michael and Noemi some years ago after performing for a classical radio benefit. I have been awed by their generosity and passion in supporting the arts, and their dedication to helping others on every level. Michael will be dearly missed by those fortunate enough to have known and treasured his remarkable humanity, warmth and creativity. His inspiring and enduring legacy will live on for eternity, continuing to make the world a better place."
"I was Mayor of Clayton during the early times of Centene growing in our City. Michael and I met often at the beginning from a business government standpoint. But we soon became friends with respect for each other. And as time went on we would regularly have breakfast together and talk over events of the day. Michael was a good man."
"Michael was a warm, funny and caring soul. I was honored to meet him and his lovely wife Noemi through my friendship with Leonard Slatkin. Joan and I regret we won't be with you in person - sending our most grateful thoughts for his life, and condolences for his family and friends."
"Mr. Michael Neidorff was our beloved cousin who extended great time and effort in maintaining family ties. Michael was someone who truly cared about others. This is why when he spoke, people listened. He was humble and understanding to others needs and he always knew just what to say or do to be effective. Michael always had a bright smile and a wonderful sense of humor. Michael was larger than life. He has had an unusual impact on the community at large, but despite being busy with communal needs, he was a real family man. He would always put his family first and was truly beloved by one and all. He was a devoted son to his parents and his in laws, and he always had the loyal dedication of his wife Noemi who was a complete partner to him in all of his communal work. He was someone that everyone admired, looked up to and truly miss today and always. May his wife Noemi be blessed with good health and happiness and may she and all of us who knew and loved Michael, bask in the wonderful memories of this extraordinary man."
“Michael was a pioneer in meeting needs others ignored. He reached out to support the
less fortunate and built an everlasting legacy and institution of service to America."
"Michael stood out among corporate leaders in America for several reasons. FIRST, he listened carefully to legal advice and thoroughly understood it. SECOND, He was a person of principle who would not settle a matter for convenience. If in the right, he would hold his position. And, when he did, he prevailed. Thirdly, Michael showed appreciation for the good work of professionals who devoted themselves to the matter at hand. Lastly, Michael was kind. He built a company which he considered his "family". In the process he became a legend among corporate executives. I consider myself blessed to know him."
"As I am sure most will agree, Michael was one of a kind. A rarity in this world. A man with boundless energy, eternal optimism, and measured drive. His heart for people, family, friends, the community and total strangers was contagious. His philanthropic spirit was unprecedented and he always gave generously never expecting anything in return. I first met Michael when I was working at the Kennedy Center for the National Symphony Orchestra in 2003. I will always cherish the memorable times of NSO trips and Kennedy Center events, fundraising meeting for NSO tours, events in St. Louis, the oh so special dinners at Tony’s (I have never eaten so well!) but the fondest memory was having Michael and his beloved Noemi fly to attend my wedding in 2010 (Noemi’s birthday nonetheless)…. A particularly meaningful memory I surely won’t forget. I loved his irresistible smile and it is hard to imagine, he is no longer with us. But I certain he is at peace with his dear Monica, and without question, his legacy and impact will be felt by so many individuals and organizations for generations to come. All my love MFN"
"We send our heartfelt condolences and will always remember Michael for his energy, philanthropy and kindness."
"Mr. Neidorff was always straightforward in his support of the philanthropic community in St. Louis. You always knew where you stood with him, and the twenty minute meetings we would have annually would accomplish more than the sum of my other external meetings the entire week. He was a true prince of a guy and will be sorely missed in St. Louis."
"Mike was my roommate and Bengal Lancer fraternity brother at Trinity University and we also served on the board of our school together for many years. He was a dear friend and someone I respected and admired greatly. Olive Anne and I will miss him dearly. With our love to Noemi and his family."
"Michael Neidorff was not only an extraordinarily successful businessman and a generous and thoughtful human being in the community at large, and a loving husband and father, but he was extraordinarily humble. He had a soft demeanor and was excellent company. I had several personal experiences with him including at our holiday table with his family. He was generous to Traditional Congregation. Michael Neidorff exhibited the best personal traits exemplified in our religious tradition. He made our world and immeasurably better; we will miss him, because his life was such an extraordinary blessing."
"Michael Neidorff lives on in the memories of those who knew and loved him, and through the countless people whose lives have been immeasurably improved thanks to his leadership and his kindness. What an extraordinary legacy."
"As a Wall Street analyst covering Centene, I got to know Michael well over the years. He had an unparalleled run as CEO of Centene, navigating the company through a period of exceptional growth and significant change in the healthcare system. He created numerous opportunities over the years for the employees and stakeholders of Centene, while generating considerable wealth for his shareholders. His company was responsible for broadening access to healthcare for many underprivileged across the country. I appreciated his sense of perspective on changing industry dynamics, as well as his dry sense of humor. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family."
"I feel privileged to belong to the group of those who met Michael. He was the most inspirational person I have ever met not only in my professional career, but also in my personal life. Michael was an example for all of us, and his vision of life, his spirit, his soul, his legacy, are unrepeatable. He was a unique person. Caring, honest, brave when it came to defending his principles and values. Extremely generous. A visionary man who inspired present and future generations, and devoted to making his community’s life better …. these are just a few of the many adjectives I could use to describe him. That is why he left his mark in our lives and his memory will always remain in our hearts and our thoughts. Thank you, Michael. We miss you. We always will."
"Michael was an inspirational leader. As a covering analyst, I remember him taking me to his people succession war room covered with Post-Its floor to ceiling of his plans for his organization. It was impressive. His vision and his calculated risk taking as well as his mission to offer healthcare coverage for all will be remembered. Especially as he championed ObamaCare during his leadership tenure at Centene."
"It was always such a pleasure to see and speak with Mr. Neidorff. I will always cherish the brief conversations we had during my years working in the Centene building. His kindness and constant professionalism were unrivaled."
"Our favorite memories of Michael were how much he loved his family. He was our neighbor in Rancho Santa Fe, CA. This was a vacation spot for Michael and he loved bringing his wife and children here for special time together. What a loving husband and proud father he was! Bob and I were fortunate enough to get to know his whole family. Another great memory we have is flying up to the Hollywood Bowl for a concert and to Beverly Hills for an event for St. Jude. These were sensational charitable events. Michael was a generous host and philanthropist. We were proud to call him a friend. We miss him very much."
"Michael was always a great host and when he spoke we all listened and learned"
"Michael Neidorff was one of the most remarkable men I have ever met. He was kind, generous and visionary. Becky and I and our family loved Michael and felt so fortunate to have known Michael and to have him in our lives. Michael was so generous with his time and was always willing to provide sage advice and insight ---whether related to business, charity or family matters. Michael's support of our work with the Marfan Foundation will always be remembered. I will never forget a phone call that I received in February 2015---when I was visiting Rice University with our oldest daughter. Michelle Williamson called me to explain that Michael and Noemi were honored to accept an award at our Heartworks St. Louis Gala fundraiser for the Marfan Foundation. Michael then explained that he wanted to cover the cost of the event's dinner for all 350 guests! That is who Michael Niedorff was. He always went so far above and beyond to support causes important to many. Over the last several weeks of his life, I cherished our daily interactions while Michael was in the hospital. Never once did he stop fighting for his health. No matter what new and difficult health concern he was facing that day, Michael always took time and interest in my life and would ask: "is there anything I can do for you?" I would say--"Michael--just get better." He fought with as much grace and dignity as I have ever witnessed. Michael--may you rest in peace. We will always remember you for the kind, loving and generous family man and friend. We cherish you life and memory."
Mr. Neidorff: “It’s not how you start, but how you finish”
“I feel successful when you are successful”
“The view never changes if your not leading the pack”
"My wife Beth and I just returned from Washington, D.C., where we visited the Kennedy Center. The names of the Center's top donors are etched in the stone wall of the building's lobby. There we noticed--at or near the top--the names, "Noemi and Michael Neidorff." Truly, their generosity had no bounds, either in St. Louis or throughout the U.S. I did not run into Mr. Neidorff on a regular basis but I did have the honor of emceeing a dinner where his son Peter received an award. I was at the podium and could see very clearly the Neidorff family at the front table. I am not sure I ever saw Mr. Neidorff so relaxed and pleased as he was that night. This was an evening to pay tribute to Peter, not Michael, but I could see in Michael's eyes and smile that this was a very special evening for him and he was so happy to be there.
I remember when I ran into Michael at an awards event and I told him that I would be leaving the next day to chaperone an overnight school trip to Chicago. He told me that he had done that years ago and was in fact in charge of making sure the kids were in their rooms at the appointed hour. Imagine that! It seemed almost unbelievable that a man of his stature would chaperone a school outing! But that was Michael Neidorff: a Fortune 24 CEO and a down-to-earth family man. What more is there to say? Not a bad legacy...and example for the rest of us."
"I was Michael's make-up artist for tv appearances and photo shoots for many years. I was in awe of his grace, confidence, stamina, and his caring and thoughtfulness for others. I loved our chats while preparing for a shoot, he had a great sense of humor and I remember his absolute joy when talking about his safari vacation with his family. When I learned of his passing, I sat down and wept. I miss you Michael!"
"I had the great fortune to have Michael as a friend, business associate and mentor. We were introduced through work many years ago when Centene was a small company. There were many trials and challenges over time but Michael always saw through them and stayed several steps ahead of most everyone. He set goals, exceeded them and set new ones. I reached out to Michael many times while leading my firm. He was a good listener, curious and cared. His guidance was invaluable to me. We also enjoyed each others company on the golf course and those memories put a smile on my face whenever I reflect on them. I like to think he is keeping the ball in the short grass these days."
"Michael and I were both friends and business associates through a number of affiliations in St. Louis. My fondest memories of Michael revolve around our group trips to Pebble Beach for golf, food and great wine. It was a great escape for him from the day to day pressures of his responsibilities. Saint Louis has lost a great leader but most importantly a great human being."
"Michael was not only a great leader and visionary CEO, but he was also an amazing mentor and a great friend who relentlessly fought for social justice and equality. As an immigrant, a new intern and a LGBTQ individual, Michael empowered me to be an entrepreneur, challenged me to be a better leader, and inspired me to be a responsible activist. He opened up a whole world of experience for me and my husband that would have otherwise never been possible."
"Michael was a respected leader in the community and gave generously to many causes to help those in need and enrich the lives of all. I appreciated having his full attention and engaging conversation when I would meet with him. We are all feeling the loss of Michael’s passing and my heart goes out to Noemi and Peter."
"Michael and I are first cousins. Michael was raised in Altoona, Pa., and I in Philadelphia. Michael's parents and siblings made regular trips to Philadelphia to visit with our grandparents and the other family members. It was always very special when Michael and his family came to town because we could play together, visit Philadelphia's plethora of historical landmarks, and have fun around the dinner table. Many summers preceding my teen years, I spent the summer months in Altoona with Michael and his family. Over the years, we continued our relationship from afar and I marveled at his professional accomplishments."
"Michael and I covered many years of friendship and business association. I am proud to see that I was a small part of his success in growing Centene to what it is today. I also feel a strong sense of gladness to say Michael and I were good friends outside of business and I am amazed at what he and Noémi brought to the Saint Louis community. Their generosity and sensitivity to helping others will be what I take with me as I lead my own life with the STL community and my family."
"I first met Michael and Noémi long before there was a Centene Corporation. It has been my honor to call Michael a dear friend whom I miss terribly. There are too many memories to recount, but I will just say that Michael was not only brilliant, but also kind, humble and incredibly generous. He should be the gold standard role model for all those individuals who are in leadership roles. He truly made the world a better place."
"Michael and I shared many things over nearly 30 years of friendship. In the Jewish faith that we shared, it is said that no one truly passes as long as there is someone alive who can remember them. Michael will be remembered by many for his business acumen, his many philanthropies and his commitment to Tikkun Olam. May his memory be a blessing for all."
"I came to know Michael through the medical community-I am not one of his business associates. After getting acquainted, it didn't take too long before I knew this guy was going to be a friend. It's sometimes difficult to get to business when you're sitting there telling jokes with Yiddish punchlines! I could go on and on about Michael's generosity, but instead there's another side to that. Michael knew I am an oenophile so if he had a particularly nice bottle he would drive over to my house and gift it to me. Generous, right? What was worth the price of admission, however, was seeing the look on HIS face when he saw the look on MY face-he beamed in pure joy; he was thrilled to make me happy. Michael was one of a kind- a nice Jewish boy from Altoona who made good; but in the end, he was still always that nice Jewish boy."
"Michael was a champion of the arts and an outstanding citizen in the community. He and Noémi energized classical music in radio, which we listen to regularly in New Mexico. It goes without saying that his business success (Centene) and vision tremendously enhanced the well-being of the St. Louis region and worldwide. His accomplishments will remain as legendary."
"I look forward to celebrating the life of one of the greatest men I have had the honor to know. Michael taught me more by his example than any book or lecture could convey. He was honest, brave, hard working and caring. His willingness to teach anyone who was interested is unmatched. When you worked with Michael, you learned your capabilities and capacities and discovered how to accomplish what you previously thought was impossible. We miss you brother and look forward to seeing you again."
"To Noémi, Peter and family: Michael’s profoundly deep and abiding love for you was always on full display and wonderful to behold. It also spilled over generously to his friends, his beloved community, our country and indeed the world. May the memory of his love and devotion – and that broad smile with a twinkle in his eye – lift you up and give you strength during this very difficult time. Leonard and I hold you close to our hearts as always and forever."
St. Louis County Police Department said Tuesday that a child care center would be built for law enforcement, with support from the family foundation of the late Centene Corp. CEO Michael Neidorff.
Michael Neidorff honored posthumously for leadership in business and philanthropy
Neidorff, who proved to be a difference maker in Ferguson, has been selected as the 2017 Citizen of the Year. The honor is sponsored by the Post-Dispatch and selected by a committee of past winners.
Ok, ever since the late Michael Neidorff passed away, I have not been as involved or liked Centene. I think he was the driving force behind Centene, he’s now gone, he was a great man. We own Humana for our charitable trust, and that’s the one that I’m sticking with, even though it’s not been that great because of high medical loss ratio that everyone’s so worried about.
Jim Cramer, CNBC
7/18/2023
First of all, the healthcare business is being killed by the government. But also Mr. Neidorff passed away, who ran that company so well. So it’s very hard for me to judge it without Mr. Neidorff. That’s just the way I look at it.
Jim Cramer, CNBC
5/30/2023
In 2022 the Ellis Island Honors Society awarded Michael Neidorff the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. The Medal is presented annually to those who have shown an outstanding commitment to serving our nation either professionally, culturally or civically. Other 2022 recipients include former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, former Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and former U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke.
"Health insurer Centene said the addition of WellCare Health Plans means the company now serves “1 in every 15 Americans” as a national provider of government-sponsored healthcare including Obamacare."
"Friends and associates of the late Michael Neidorff, including former President Bill Clinton, paid tribute to him Sunday as a visionary business leader, loving husband and parent, and a philanthropist in his adopted hometown of St. Louis. About 600 people filled Graham Chapel at Washington University to honor Neidorff, the longtime CEO and chairman of Clayton-based Centene Corp. who died April 7 after a lengthy illness. He was 79. "We miss him beyond imagination and we treasure the memories,” said his son, Peter Neidorff, describing his father and mother, Noemi, as a “unit” during their 48 years of marriage.
"Under Neidorff, Centene grew into a national healthcare giant with revenues that eclipsed $126 billion in 2021 as more Americans signed up for Medicaid, the health insurance for low income patients it manages via contracts with states and individual coverage under the Affordable Care Act known as Obamacare hit record levels during the pandemic. And Centene under Neidorff expanded into the business of Medicare Advantage, the privatized health benefits myriad health insurers offer seniors via contracts with the federal government."
"Michael F. Neidorff, who as chief executive officer of Centene Corp. transformed a tiny medical insurance firm serving three counties in 1996 into a nationwide giant in government-backed health coverage, died Thursday after what his family described as a long illness. He was 79."
“He transformed a small company into a corporation focused on providing health insurance under government programs. It now insures 25 million people.”
“Neidorff led the Clayton-based company for 26 years, growing it from a small health care firm into a Fortune 25 behemoth — and the largest company headquartered in the region. He and Centene injected millions of dollars into charities here. And he sent shockwaves through the area when he challenged local leaders to do more about crime.”
“Michael’s love and devotion for his family knew no bounds. He was a beloved husband to Noémi Neidorff, father to Peter Neidorff and the late Monica Neidorff, and brother to Susan Neidorff Reinglass and Robert Neidorff. Michael was Centene Corporation’s visionary leader for more than 25 years. He built a remarkable American business success story and his commitment to providing affordable, high quality health care to the most vulnerable people transformed lives across the globe.”