BROOKLYN, NY (August 12, 2025) — Acme Smoked Fish is saddened to announce the passing of Mitchell Gardner, Senior Sales Manager and esteemed member of the smoked seafood industry. Gardner passed away shortly after celebrating his 80th birthday.
A respected figure in the world of smoked fish, Gardner joined Acme Smoked Fish in 2006, following a successful career as the founder of Mitchell’s Foods, a regional manufacturer and supplier. Known for his deep knowledge, personal integrity, and commitment to service, Gardner played a vital role in mentoring the next generation of sales professionals at Acme and was widely regarded as one of the industry’s most trusted and experienced leaders.
“Mitchell was as genuine as they come,” said Robert Caslow, Chairman Emeritus of Acme Smoked Fish. “He gave everything he had to Acme. You could count on him day or night. He did everything in his power to do the right thing, to succeed the right way. He died the way he lived: focused, committed, and giving his all to the work he loved.”
Gardner’s connection to the smoked fish industry was lifelong. He grew up in the business — his father operated an appetizing shop in Philadelphia — and over the decades, he earned the respect of colleagues, competitors, suppliers, and customers alike.
Even after reaching 80, Gardner remained an active and valued member of the Acme team. He was known not only for his encyclopedic knowledge of smoked fish, but also for his dedication to building strong customer relationships and his generosity in mentoring others.
Mitchell is survived by his wife, Rita, their children David and Staci, and grandchildren Adam, Evan, and Max.
Acme Smoked Fish extends its deepest condolences to the Gardner family and all those who had the privilege of working alongside Mitchell. His legacy will live on through the people he inspired and the values he embodied.
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About Acme Smoked Fish Corporation
Acme Smoked Fish is a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated smoked fish company based in Brooklyn since 1906, dedicated to bringing people together through great food experiences. Tradition and innovation meet at Acme, where their smoked fish experts are on a mission to smoke and cure the highest quality seafood with a commitment to top food safety standards. Acme is also dedicated to sustainability and education through the Acme Smoked Fish Foundation, which supports groundbreaking climate projects across the industry and provides educational grants in local communities. In addition to its Brooklyn headquarters, Acme smokes fish in Massachusetts, North Carolina, Florida, and Denmark. Its growing product line can be found in supermarkets, specialty stores, bagel shops, and restaurants nationwide. Learn more at acmesmokedfish.com and follow @acmesmokedfish.
