BOISE Idaho J.R. “Jack” Simplot, the founder of restaurant-industry supplier J.R. Simplot Co. and a key figure in the early growth of quick-service chains like McDonald’s, died peacefully at his home Sunday at age 99, the company said.
One of the richest men in America, Simplot had made billions through his involvement in a number of growth industries, including technology. But he is perhaps best remembered for his work with French fries. Dropping out of school at age 14 to go into business, he had his own produce company up and operating within six years. Circumstances, including World War II, drew him to specialize in potatoes. He supplied 33 million tons of dehydrated spuds to the U.S. Army just between 1942 and 1945, according to the company that still bears his name.
His business was given a quantum boost in 1967 when a former milk shake machine salesman called on him with an idea. Ray Kroc was parlaying the hamburger drive-in concept he had purchased from the McDonald brothers into a nationwide chain, and he wanted to speak with Simplot about being his supplier. The two sealed the pact with a handshake. The companies continue to do business today, though Simplot is now a supplier to many chains and independents, and its product line has extended beyond fries.
J.R. Simplot Co. is still controlled by the Simplot family, with J.R.’s son, Scott, now serving as chairman.
“The Simplot family is grateful for the outpouring of love and condolences during this time of loss in our family,” Scott Simplot said in a posting on the concern’s website that appeared to be directed at employees. “‘J.R.’ as you knew him — dad and granddad to us — seemed larger than life, and his passing after 99 years of a very full life leaves a large hole in our lives.”
In addition to Scott, J.R. Simplott leaves behind his wife of 26 years, Esther; another son, Doug; a daughter, Gay; and 18 grandchildren.
