Mike Burkett, founder of Burkett Restaurant Equipment & Supplies, passed away on March 29, 2021. He was 63 years old.

At age 20, Burkett began reconditioning and selling used restaurant equipment in his home of Toledo, Ohio. He launched Burkett Restaurant Equipment & Supplies in 1977 and the company quickly grew to become one of the top 100 foodservice equipment and supplies dealers in the country, per FE&S Distribution Giants study. In 1996 Burkett lost his mobility to his multiple sclerosis, an illness he battled for 34 years. Burkett’s son, Jameel, became company president and CEO in 2011.

In announcing the senior Burkett’s death the company issued the following statement: “Those of us who had the opportunity to work under him will remember his exceptional work ethic, diligence in investing every dollar back into the business, commitment to his customers, suppliers, employees and family, and his unwavering desire to help local business owners achieve their dreams through equipment deals, coaching and education.”