Ilitch

Ilitch is a surname of Slavic origin, an Anglicized form of Ilić, found among people of Macedonian, Serbian, Croatian and nearby heritage. In the United States, the name is best known for a prominent business family that built a diversified enterprise around food service, entertainment, and sports.

Notable bearers include Mike Ilitch (1929–2017), an American entrepreneur who co-founded the Little Caesars pizza chain in 1959; Marian Ilitch (born 1933), his wife and business partner; their son Christopher Ilitch (born 1965), who has led Ilitch Holdings as chief executive and chairman. Denise Ilitch (born 1964), Mike’s sister, is a businesswoman and former political candidate.

Ilitch Holdings, Inc., established by Mike and Marian Ilitch, operates as a private holding company whose assets include Little Caesars Enterprises and a portfolio in sports and entertainment. The group owns or operates venues and franchises through Olympia Entertainment and owns the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League and the Detroit Tigers of Major League Baseball, following their acquisition in 1992. The organization has been involved in the development of The District Detroit, a major mixed-use project in Detroit.

Philanthropy has been a component of the Ilitch family activities, with charitable initiatives coordinated through the family foundations and related programs.