Article updated: 1/8/2013 3:29 PM

McDonald’s pioneer Fred L. Turner dead at 80

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Former McDonald's CEO Fred L. Turner, who helped expand the fast-food chain's global footprint and spearheaded the creation of "Hamburger University," died Thursday after suffering complications from pneumonia, the company said. He was 80 years old.

Associated Press

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Fred Turner

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McDonald's Corporation announced Tuesday that Fred L. Turner, former chief executive officer and honorary chairman of the board, passed away from complications with pneumonia. Turner, 80, is heralded as the architect of the "quality, service, and cleanliness" (QSC) restaurant operations model that launched McDonald's global presence and unparalled leadership in the industry. He was one of founder Ray Kroc's first employees in 1956.