Charles E. Burford, founder of Burford Corp., Maysville, Okla., died May 16, in Dallas. He was 81 years old.

A native of Lindsay, Okla., Burford and his father, Earl, founded Burford Corp. in Maysville, in 1961. The company began with the invention of the Burford twist tie machine, which helped revolutionize how bread and other baked foods are packaged.

Burford also was instrumental in the development of a wide range of specialty equipment designed to help bakers operate more efficiently. The company holds many patents for its innovations.

Burford’s inventiveness extended beyond the baking industry. He developed a downstroke baler for the supermarket and dime store industry as well as a new packaging approach for citrus fruit growers.

Burford was named to the Baking Hall of Fame in 2010 and received the Bakery Equipment Manufacturers and Allieds (BEMA) Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008. He is survived by two daughters, a son and three grandchildren.

Source: The Oklahoman