Obituary: Remembering Burt Holmes, the Visionary Behind QuikTrip

On Jan. 15, 2025, Tulsa’s legend Burt Holmes passed away at the age of 93. All of us are familiar with the convenience store QuikTrip, but many are unfamiliar with its history and founders. Holmes was inspired to make this store a reality after he came across a 7-Eleven store in Dallas in 1957.

Burt Holmes was a co-founder of the QuikTrip Corporation. (Photo Provided)

Holmes graduated from the University of Tulsa and went to work for his father’s (Dan P. Holmes) insurance business, where he equipped himself with the tools and experience that helped him take the next big step in his life. Along with his old friend Chester Cadieux, he co-founded the QuikTrip Corporation and opened their first store on Sept. 25, 1958, starting a remarkable journey.

Holmes showed his entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic, bringing the company great growth and success. The first steps were hard, and for the first four years, they faced major struggles. But finally, the company ended the 1961-1962 year with eight stores and total sales of $1,090,008.

From the beginning, Holmes and Cadieux built a company prioritizing cleanliness and friendly service, but also, most importantly, a friendly environment for employees, focusing on their well-being and thus fostering a strong sense of community.

Chester Cadieux (l) and Burt Holmes are pictured in front of their first QuikTrip store in 1958. (Photo Provided)

“In 1958, Burt came up with the crazy idea for a convenience store,” said Chet Cadieux, QuikTrip’s current CEO and son of Chester Cadieux. “We are extremely fortunate that he did because it created opportunities for so many people who make our company what it is today.”

Holmes’ talents extended further than QuikTrip. He established Burt B. Holmes and Associates, the predecessor of The Holmes Organization Inc., which he sold in 1998 but remained as a consultant. He was also involved in many other companies and organizations as a founder, owner, or director, and he promoted Tulsa’s first high-rise suburban office building, the Southland Financial Center.

In 2010, the University of Tulsa Collins College of Business named Holmes as an outstanding entrepreneur. He was past chairman and director emeritus on the University of Tulsa Board of Trustees, the Gilcrease Museum Association, the University of Tulsa Alumni Association, Family & Children’s Services, and many others.

Burt Holmes autographs a book for Jon McGrath on Sept. 25, 2024. (Photo by Chrys Melissinos)

He was president and director of Leaders Life Insurance Company, the American Institute of Medical Technology, and National Occupational Health Services. His latest position was the director of Tulsa’s Botanic Garden, which he loved so much.

Holmes’ passing leaves a void in the Tulsa business community, but his legacy will live on through the thriving company he built.

QuikTrip stands as a testament to his vision, dedication, and entrepreneurship, inspiring young businessmen and serving as a source of pride for the city of Tulsa. He was a father of five and had numerous grandchildren.

We extend our deep condolences to the Holmes family. We thank him and appreciate him for everything he contributed.

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