In Memoriam: Manufacturers’ Rep Don Camacho Sr.

Long-time manufacturers’ rep Don Camacho Sr., of Don Camacho & Associates, died Aug. 27 at age 83. He founded the Zion, Ill., firm more than 45 years ago. Camacho was a longtime member of the Manufacturers’ Agents Association for the Foodservice Industry and served as the organization’s president in 1982. He received both the Tony and PaceSetter Awards from MAFSI, as well as NAFEM’s Doctorate of Food Service Award.

"He loved our industry, and I know even though he has not been involved in the business for many years, he often thought about the friends he made over the years," said Don Camacho Jr. about his father.

“Don was one of the nicest people I ever met in this business,” said Foodservice Equipment Reports Publisher Robin Ashton. “When I first met him in 1982, he was MAFSI president, and he was incredibly welcoming. The group had just gone through a tough time and he was instrumental in helping right the organization. He also was one heck of a sales professional.” 

He is survived by his wife Nancy; six children; 13 grandchildren; and 21 great- grandchildren. Services have been held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Misericordia Heart of Mercy, 6300 N. Ridge Ave. Chicago, Ill., 60660.