Charles Salmanson, 93

PROVIDENCE — Charles Salmanson, 93, co-founder of Adams Drug Co. and a philanthropist, died July 7 at The Miriam Hospital.

He, with his father and brothers, opened their first store in Woonsocket in 1933, selling health and beauty aids and assorted sundries. Expansion and acquisitions over 51 years created one of the largest drug store chains in the country. The company was listed on the New York Stock Exchange and expanded to 500 stores, which were operated under the Brooks Pharmacy and Adams Drug names. The family sold the business in 1984, but continued to be active in commercial real estate.

Mr. Salmanson attended Classical High School and Bryant College. He was a philanthropist and, along with the Salmanson family, has given generously to Brown University, Bryant College, The Miriam Hospital, Rhode Island Hospital, Joslin Diabetes Center, Trinity Repertory Theater, The Jewish Federation of Rhode Island, Temple Emanu-El, and numerous other charities.

Charles Salmanson was one of the founding members of Crestwood Country Club in Rehoboth, Mass. He was a past board member of Temple Emanu-El, The Jewish Federation of Rhode Island, and the former Jewish Home for the Aged.

Born in Providence, a son of the late Barnett and Elizabeth (Salk) Salmanson, he resided in Providence for his entire life, spending some time in Boca Raton, Florida. He was married to the late Hannah Salmanson for more than 60 years. He leaves a son, Jerrold Salmanson and his wife, Dale, of Providence. He was the father of the late Deborah Salmanson Roberts.

He also leaves a brother, Donald Salmanson, and a sister, Martha Corin, both of Providence, and two grandchildren, David Salmanson and Lauren Salmanson Levin and her husband, Jeffery, of New York City. Mr. Salmanson was the brother of the late Leonard Salmanson and Samuel Salmanson.

A funeral service was held at Temple Emanu-El.

Contributions may be made to Office of Development at The Miriam Hospital, or the Joslin Diabetes Center, One Joslin Place, Boston, Mass., 02215.