Norman Brinker, the man who changed America’s definition of casual dining out, died on vacation Tuesday. The chairman emeritus of Brinker International Inc. and its retired chief executive was 78.

“Through his teachings and guidance, and leadership, Norman changed the whole restaurant industry,” said retired Dean Foods Inc. vice chairman Pete Schenkel, one of Brinker’s closest friends. “He was a real entrepreneur, a very caring person and someone you were always glad to see because he had a smile on his face.”

At one time or another, virtually every major food chain in the country has been led by a former employee of Brinker, said Doug Brooks, chief executive of Brinker International. Just two examples: Outback Steakhouse and Houston’s were founded by Brinker protégés.

There will be a public viewing from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 14, at Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home in Dallas and a “celebration of the life of Norman Brinker” at the Meyerson Symphony Center at 2 p.m. Monday, June 15.

Filed under Home, Obituaries

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Not working? Click here!