Founder Of Wienerschnitzel John Galardi Dies Of Pancreatic Cancer

April 14, 2013 2:29 PM
[Reprinted by The DeSean Jackson Foundation, Thursday, April 18, 2013]

IRVINE (CBSLA.com) — Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced for Wienerschnitzel founder John Galardi, who died Saturday.

A press release issued by the Irvine-based Galardi Group says the fast food entrepreneur passed away at the age of 75. He had pancreatic cancer.

Founded by Galardi in 1961, Der Wienerschnitzel began as a single hot dog stand. At the time of its creation, Galardi was only 23.

Currently, the fast food giant sells more than 120 million hot dogs each year, according to the statement.

Dennis Tase, president and COO of the Galardi Group, described Galardi as a “true pioneer in the restaurant industry.”

“Since it all began in 1961, he has touched countless lives through his generosity as a business leader and his legacy will forever live on,” he said.

“Galardi built a brand representative of a time when life was simpler, a brand that holds a special place in the hearts of so many families in America. He will be deeply missed,” Tase added.

Galardi has a wife and four children.