Colruyt family

The Colruyt family is a Belgian noble family, belonging to the wealthiest noble houses of Belgium. In three generation they managed to climb to the top of the Belgian economy.
History.
The history starts in 1925 when Franz, a baker in Lembeek, opened his own business. He was the second son in a catholic family of 11 children. Two of them became diocesan priests, and Camille became a famous artist specialised in Religious artifacts.
The family business still reflects his vision. The management of the family created financial success, in the last quarter of the 20th century the small family business develops into a big company. In 1972 by request of the family, the demolition of Lembeek Castle is accepted by the local politicians. The space is used for the expansion of the company.
Today the Colruyt family is among the most powerful families of Belgium.
His grandson Jozef was ennobled by King Albert II in 2012.
Genealogy.
Jean Joseph Andre Colruyt (1868-1942), baker from Lembeek x Josephine-Marie Vanboerck.