01/22/2026
It is with deep sadness and great appreciation that FrontLine Service mourns the loss of Burt Saltzman, age 88, the visionary force behind Cleveland’s hometown grocery chain, Dave's Supermarket. Burt’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to community touched countless lives. We were truly honored to work so closely with him and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.
Burt devoted many years of dedicated service to FrontLine, serving as both board chair and board member during the organization’s formative years. He helped shape not only our growth, but also our enduring spirit of service—tirelessly championing care for individuals experiencing homelessness, crisis, and trauma. A true “FrontLiner,” Burt gave countless hours of leadership as our agency expanded to serve more than 21,000 individuals annually. As he did in business, he consistently encouraged innovation, growth, and the strengthening of community. In every role he held, Burt modeled an extraordinary respect for others and a profound spirit of giving.
Burt was known and admired by everyone at FrontLine—staff, board members, and those we serve alike. In 2012, his selflessness and advocacy were recognized when he received FrontLine’s Canary Award, inspired by the canaries once used to warn coal miners of danger when no other protections existed. This award honored Burt’s steadfast commitment to economic and social justice. Pictured here is Burt and Senator Sherrod Brown at the event where this award was presented.
Burt met FrontLine’s challenges and opportunities with a twinkle in his eye and an unmatched generosity of spirit. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of compassion, leadership, and service will continue to inspire us all.
Read more about his remarkable life here: https://tinyurl.com/jw53kh5z