QuikTrip Co-Founder Burt Holmes Dies at 93

Holmes co-founded the Oklahoma-based c-store in 1958 with his former junior high school classmate.

January 17, 2025

QuikTrip co-founder Burt Holmes passed away on Wednesday, January 15, at the age of 93, QuikTrip said in a press release.

Burt worked as an insurance salesman in 1958, but he had also launched other businesses before—he was a co-owner of Burt’s Good Humor Ice Cream Company at the time. 

“Burt had the idea to bring the 7-Eleven-type small grocery store concept to Tulsa, Oklahoma, but he wasn’t ready to quit his job and run the store himself,” said QuikTrip. He soon shared the idea with his old friend from Wilson Junior High School, Chester Cadieux. “Chester listened, agreed to operate the store in partnership with Burt, and the rest is history! QuikTrip No. 1 opened September 25, 1958,” said QuikTrip.

“In 1958, Burt came up with the crazy idea to open a convenience store. We are extremely fortunate that he did because it created opportunities for so many people who make our company what it is today,” said CEO of QuikTrip, Chet Cadieux. “On behalf of our 31,000 employees, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude. We will miss you, Burt, but we will never forget you.”

Local news station News on 6 reported that Holmes was also a proud University of Tulsa (UTulsa) alum and previously served on the university’s board of trustees. The university shared the following statement:

“For over 60 years, Burt worked to improve his alma mater for each incoming class,” said UTulsa President Brad Carson. “He provided leadership and vision to advance our world-class university and supported students through significant financial contributions toward scholarships, facilities and programs. Many people appreciated Burt’s keen business mind and no-nonsense approach to life and work, but many more were fortunate enough to witness—and benefit from—his deep commitment to lifting up humankind.”

“Oklahoma has lost a true giant with the passing of Burt Holmes. Wendy and I greatly cherished his friendship,” said Oklahoma Attorney General Drummond. “Although he made tremendous wealth as a co-founder of QuikTrip and as the owner of The Holmes Organization, he was passionate about good governance, education and the arts. Burt did not suffer fools, and if he believed you needed chastisement, he would gladly oblige—in spades. But if he believed you were a positive contributor to society, even in the smallest increment, you could count on Burt to encourage you and elevate your cause. He was one-of-a-kind, and he will be greatly missed.”