Essential Formulas Incorporated (EFI) and the Schoor family shared news of the passing of company Chairman and Founder, Michael Mercier Schoor. "Sadly, Michael developed brain cancer (glioblastoma) which he fought valiantly for nearly two years," the company said in an announcement on social media. "He passed away peacefully on November 4, 2022, surrounded by family. Michael is survived by his wife of 61 years, JoLen Schoor, his four adoring children and their spouses, and his four grandchildren." 

EFI was founded after Michael Schoor discovered Dr. Ohhira's Probiotic formula while traveling through Malaysia in 1997. He established EFI with his wife and children to launch Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics to the North American market.

"Michael’s passion and enthusiasm for the beneficial health attributes of probiotics were magnified by his own personal journey—having been stricken with severe colitis for most of his life," the company shared. "The marked improvement that Michael experienced from the use of this very formula provided him a clear vision and transformed him into one of the leading pioneers for improving gut health through probiotic usage."

Honoring a legacy of love, care, and service

Friends and colleagues expressed their condolences, sharing fond memories of time spent with Michael. He is remembered as a caring, thoughtful man and industry leader who had a lasting positive impact on those who were blessed to know him. "He will truly be missed," saidWholeFoodsMagazine Publisher and VP of Media Heather Wainer. "I will cherish our conversations. Every time I spoke to Michael I learned something new."

The Schoor family expressed deeply gratitude to Michael's many industry friends. "Your incredible love, prayers, and encouragement over these years have blessed Michael’s life and the lives of the Schoor family. Your friendship and overwhelming support of Essential Formulas has given new meaning to Michael’s legacy of love, care and service to his fellow man."

In lieu of flowers, EFI requested consideration of a donation to St. Jude’s Hospital or the your local charity of choice.

Remembering industry leaders: In Memoriam: Integrative Cardiologist Stephen Sinatra, M.D. In Memoriam: Howard Pollack, Rainbow Acres Natural Foods Dr. Richard Passwater, Natural Products Industry Pioneer In Memoriam: Debra Stark, Debra’s Natural Gourmet In Memoriam: William F. Sardi, 1945-2022