Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
SALT LAKE CITY — The man behind the buns for almost 50 years passed away Sunday.
John Markulis, who owned Puritan Bakery, passed away Sunday, Feb. 2, in Orange County at the age of 83, according to the Los Angeles Times. While many may not recognize his name, they would know him by his hamburger buns. Markulis’ company has provided baked goods, most notably hamburger buns, to the popular burger chain In-N-Out since the 1950s.
“John was a lifelong bread man with an obsession for quality product and first-class customer service,” a tribute to Markulis states on the company’s website.
After joining Puritan Bakery as a part-owner in 1965, Markulis brought his love of quality and passion for baking to the forefront of the business. Markulis had strong connections to the greek community in Orange County and incorporated that heritage into the mission of Puritan Bakery.
“Since John Markulis joined the company as a partner in 1965, much of our success can be attributed to our Greek friends,” it says on the company’s website.
In-N-Out burgers came to Utah in 2008 and has enjoyed popularity along the Wasatch Front and in St. George. The burger chain is known for its use of fresh ingredients, including spongy white buns. The special process for making the buns just right for the grill and the patty started with Markulis many years ago.
“He would always say, 'When you bit into the hamburger, the first thing you would taste is the bun,' so the quality had to be very important,” Cathy McIndoo, Markulis’ daughter, told the Orange County Register.
Burger lovers need not worry, however, as Puritan Bakery still maintains its contract with In-N-Out. Operations should run as normal following Markulis’ passing.
“Puritan Bakery places great importance on maintaining and expanding the relationships that have been created over the years,” the website states.
