Michael Kittredge: Yankee Candle Founder, Life & Legacy
Ever wonder how a simple gift idea can blossom into a global phenomenon? Michael Kittredge's Yankee Candle is a testament to the power of entrepreneurial spirit and a keen understanding of what brings comfort and joy to people's lives. His story, though marked by a life cut short, is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring business leaders and dreamers everywhere.
Michael "Mike" J. Kittredge II, a name synonymous with the comforting scents that fill homes around the world, passed away on July 24, 2019, at the age of 67. His death, attributed to unexpected liver failure, occurred at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, surrounded by his family and loved ones. Born on February 1, 1952, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, Kittredge's journey from a young man crafting candles in his family home to the founder of a multi-billion dollar empire is a true embodiment of the American dream. According to his son, Mick Kittredge, Michael was the personification of the American dream, having transformed Yankee Candle from its humble beginnings into a renowned enterprise. Kittredge's entrepreneurial path began in 1969, when, as a teenager, he melted crayons to make a candle as a gift for his mother. What started as a heartfelt gesture quickly evolved into a burgeoning business, laying the foundation for what would become the Yankee Candle Company.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael "Mike" J. Kittredge II |
| Birth Date | February 1, 1952 |
| Birth Place | Holyoke, Massachusetts, USA |
| Death Date | July 24, 2019 |
| Age at Death | 67 |
| Cause of Death | Liver Failure |
| Occupation | Businessman, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist |
| Known For | Founder of Yankee Candle Company |
| Net Worth (estimated) | $2 Billion |
| Education | Holyoke Community College (attended) |
| Parents | James "Jim" Kittredge |
Kittredge's story is one of remarkable success. He started Yankee Candle in 1969, crafting candles in his family home with melted crayons. This simple act of creation led to a global brand known for its extensive range of scented candles and home fragrance products. The Yankee Candle flagship store, which opened in South Deerfield, Massachusetts, in 1982, became a destination for candle enthusiasts and tourists alike. More than just a retail space, it offered a unique experience with kitchen and home accessories, New England crafts, gifts, collectibles, a toy shop, picnic grounds, and even a Bavarian Christmas village complete with decorated trees and a toy train. Yankee Candle's rise from a small, home-based business to a national phenomenon is a testament to Kittredge's vision and business acumen. He identified a gap in the market for high-quality, strongly scented candles and capitalized on it, building a brand that resonated with consumers seeking comfort and sensory pleasure in their homes. His journey from humble beginnings to immense wealth is the archetypal American success story, inspiring entrepreneurs to follow their passions and create something of lasting value. Former owner of Yankee Candle, Michael Kittredge amassed a net worth estimated at $2 billion, a testament to his business acumen and the enduring popularity of the brand he created.
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Beyond his entrepreneurial achievements, Michael Kittredge was also a dedicated philanthropist. While specific details of his philanthropic endeavors aren't fully detailed in the available information, his commitment to giving back to the community is evident. He understood that success comes with a responsibility to support others and contribute to the betterment of society. The legacy of Michael Kittredge extends beyond the realm of scented candles. He leaves behind a story of creativity, determination, and the pursuit of the American dream. He founded his company Yankee Candle in 1969. The news of his passing was announced on Thursday morning in a statement, bringing to a close the chapter of a life that touched countless individuals through the simple pleasure of a scented candle.
It's important to note that the Kittredge family name extends to other individuals who have made their mark in different fields. Andrew Michael Kittredge, born on March 17, 1990, is an American professional baseball pitcher currently playing for the Baltimore Orioles of Major League Baseball (MLB). He previously played in MLB for the Tampa Bay Rays and St. Louis Cardinals. Andrew Michael Kittredge married Tobey, and they have two sons, Brooks and Griffin. The birth of Brooks occurred while Andrew was on his way to the airport after being recalled from Durham, highlighting the challenges and sacrifices faced by professional athletes. This highlights the diversity of talent and achievement within the Kittredge family, spanning both the world of business and professional sports.
Further adding to the Kittredge family narrative, Michael J. Kittredge 3rd was born on August 26, 1990, placing him around 34 years old. His connection to the Yankee Candle legacy is through his father, who founded and later sold the company. This intergenerational connection underscores the lasting impact of Michael Kittredge II's entrepreneurial success on his family. The details surrounding Michael J. Kittredge 3rd's life and career are less readily available, but his lineage firmly places him within the sphere of the Yankee Candle story.
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Delving deeper into the family history, Kittredge was born in Clinton, to Michael J. and Grace (Devaney) Kittredge. He graduated from Clinton High School. Kittredge, Jr., 81, of West Boylston died Thursday, December 18, 2014, with his loving family by his side. He was a navy veteran of the korean war. The lives of those connected to Michael Kittredge underscore the importance of family, community, and the pursuit of individual passions. While Michael Kittredge II's legacy is primarily associated with the Yankee Candle Company, the stories of his family members contribute to a more complete understanding of the man behind the brand.
Even in death, the Kittredge name continues to be associated with both success and loss. Michael Covey Kittredge passed away on May 25, 2017, in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Born in San Antonio, Texas, on November 1, 1938, to Thurman and Bonnah Covey, she remained a true and passionate individual. This highlights the interconnectedness of life and the diverse experiences of individuals within the broader Kittredge family tree. Michael Kittredge's educational background includes his attendance at Holyoke Community College, which he credited with aiding his schooling. This highlights the importance of education in shaping his entrepreneurial journey. His roots in Holyoke, Massachusetts, remained a significant part of his identity throughout his life.
The journey of Michael Kittredge serves as a powerful reminder that even the most successful individuals often face challenges and setbacks. His story is a testament to the importance of perseverance, innovation, and a strong belief in one's vision. He started off from the rags and ended up big in life. The impact of Michael Kittredge's entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen extends far beyond the realm of scented candles. He created a brand that has become a household name, bringing comfort and joy to millions of people around the world. His legacy will continue to inspire entrepreneurs and business leaders for generations to come. Yankee candle founder michael j. Kittredge ii died wednesday at a boston hospital after a brief illness, surrounded by relatives and friends, his family said in a statement. The obituary was featured in legacy on july 25, 2019.
While details about his personal life, such as the names of his wife and son, are less prominent in the available information, the impact of his family on his life and career is undeniable. Born in 1952, his updated wiki, wife, son to parents name are available. Family members confirmed that his birthday was February 1st, 1952. The support and encouragement he received from his loved ones undoubtedly played a crucial role in his success. The Yankee Candle Company remains a testament to his vision and dedication. The companys website says Kittredge whose retail line of scented candles, yankee candle was born. Yankee Candle's flagship store, which opened in 1982, is located in south deerfield, massachusetts.it features all available yankee candles as well as kitchen and home accessories, new england crafts, gifts and collectibles, a toy shop, picnic grounds and a bavarian christmas village filled with decorated christmas trees and a toy train that
The story of Michael Kittredge is a captivating example of how a simple idea, combined with hard work and determination, can lead to extraordinary success. His legacy as the founder of the Yankee Candle Company will continue to inspire entrepreneurs and business leaders for years to come. His journey from melting crayons in his family home to building a multi-billion dollar empire is a testament to the power of the American dream. The impact of his life extends beyond the realm of business, touching the lives of millions through the comforting scents that fill their homes.
Mike kittredge ii, the founder of the yankee candle company, passed away wednesday. He was 67 years old. They also speak not what good can come not just from the rise to According to mick kittredge, his father represented the american dream, having grown yankee candle from a small business at Founder of iconic brand yankee candle michael kittredge ii has passed away at the age of 67. His death occurred on wednesday night at brigham and womens hospital in boston after a brief illness We're 100% free for everything!' age 54, born jun 1970 possible spouse. Andrew kittredge andrew michael kittredge. March 17, 1990 in spokane, washington, usa.
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Who was Michael Kittredge? Wiki, Wife, Age, Biography, Kids, Parents
Michael J. Kittredge II, founder of Yankee Candle, over the years
Michael J. Kittredge II, founder of Yankee Candle, over the years
