Mitchell E. Schechter: 1952-2012

It is with much sadness that we report the unexpected passing of Mitchell E. Schechter, a long-time former staff editor of Food Management, on June 20. The cause of death was heart failure. Schechter was 60 years old.

An award winning and widely respected veteran journalist, Mitch spent nearly three decades covering the foodservice industry, using his vast knowledge and sharp communication skills to influence countless members of the noncommercial operator and equipment and supplies community.

Mitch started in the foodservice industry as an associate editor with Food Management in 1983.  He specialized in covering the B&I sector and the management companies that dominated it, often providing wide-ranging insights during an era when that part of the industry underwent dramatic consolidation.

After leaving Food Management as senior editor, he formed PROSERVICE, a firm supplying design, editorial and other content-related services to foodservice clients. From 1998 through 2004, Mitch served as editor in chief of Foodservice Equipment & Supplies Magazine. He also published The Schechter Report, and Newz-Zoom, digital newsletters. In 2007, he joined forces with Bill Pagano to form Axis M Inc., a foodservice equipment marketing firm.

In addition, Mitch co-wrote "Foodservice Management: An Administrator's Guide," published by John Wiley & Co. (December 1994) and "The Complete Guide To Operating Foodservices In Cultural Institutions" (John Wiley, October 2001). He was also a contributing writer and editor to many industry publications, including FCSI’s The Consultant.

Considered a talented writer and editor and a dedicated, loyal friend, Mitch's contageous laugh could fill a room and brighten a conversation. He demonstrated great generosity and a courageous spirit. An active and committed philanthropist, Mitch contributed in many capacities to anti-hunger efforts and other causes.

Mitch was the co-winner of a 1999 Cahners Gold Medal of Excellence award, four ASBPE regional and national honors and two Jesse E. Neal Awards for Editorial Excellence.

He is survived by his parents his brother Joseph, sister-in-law Paula, and their children.

Memorial donations may be made to Feeding America (formerly, Second Harvest) at www.feedingamerica.org or to a charity of your choice.

[Photo: Schechter announcing a $10,000 donation raised on behalf of the Second Harvest Foundation]