Sam Tell Co-Founder Neil Tell Remembered

It is with heavy hearts that FEDA shares news of the passing of Neil Tell, co-founder of Sam Tell Companies, on Monday, Dec. 15.

Known as the “Son” in the original Sam Tell and Son name, Neil formed the New York-based dealer with his father, Sam, in 1956. The company started as a two-person operation that delivered foodservice equipment and supplies to restaurants in Manhattan, mostly Jewish delis. In 1964, Neil and Sam decided to incorporate the business, setting the stage for Sam Tell Companies to grow into one of the country’s most prominent nationwide foodservice equipment and supplies dealers. He is remembered for instilling the values of dependability, integrity, and honesty into the family-run business.

Neil was the father of Marc Tell, current CEO of Sam Tell Companies.

“We would not be here without the hard work, time, effort, and dedication Neil invested in building this company and family,” the company said in a statement. “His leadership provided the foundation for our future and set the trajectory for what the Sam Tell Companies is today.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathy go out to Marc and the entire Tell family, as well as to our colleagues who knew and worked with Neil,” Sam Tell Companies said.

A memorial service was held Wednesday, Dec. 17, at Gutterman’s funeral home in Woodbury, New York. Burial took place shortly after at Mount Hebron Cemetery in Queens, New York.