Gary S. Rocheleau, 43, has joined Vons...

Gary S. Rocheleau, 43, has joined Vons Cos. Inc. as vice president-general merchandise. He was formerly executive vice president of merchandising and marketing for Thrifty PayLess Drug Stores Inc. Rocheleau succeeds Bob Smith, who has assumed the position of vice president-meat division. Rocheleau will be responsible for the sales and merchandising of health and beauty and general merchandise, and also will oversee the pharmacy division. He will report to Bob Kelly, executive vice president, retailing. The Arcadia-based company is a leading supermarket operator in Southern California.