It all started with a man in a van with a plan. Barry Stillman was 19 years old when he decided that working for someone else was not what he wanted to do with his life. Although his father and uncles were already fixtures in the meat industry here in Denver, Barry was determined to make his own way. He started delivering to small restaurants and sausage manufacturers in a refrigerated van throughout the city. Soon he built his business enough to buy another van and hire another driver. A few years later, he opened a warehouse in Thornton with an attached office space, hired more employees, and his business began to blossom. He soon outgrew that warehouse and found a new home in central Denver where he had ample space to grow.
Sadly, Barry Stillman passed away in the mid-90s, before his time. In the years that followed, his wife Kay, along with their son Nick Roben, stepped in to guide the company through uncertainty. Kay took the reins with resilience and determination, while Nick played a huge role in shaping the next chapter of Stillman Meat Co. Together, they not only kept the business alive but expanded and evolved it into one of the strongest food suppliers in Colorado — a true testament to Barry’s vision and their shared commitment.
Thanks to the continued loyalty of our customers and the dedication of our employees, the Stillman story keeps growing stronger. Kay Stillman remains an important part of the company, while her son, Nick Roben, has taken the lead in carrying forward the vision and values that Barry started. Working closely with Nick is Juan Covarrubias, who plays a primary leadership role in operations and helps drive the company’s continued success. Together, they are supported by a dedicated sales team — Terry Waller, Henry Hong-Chiv, Leo Sandoval, Miguel Ramirez De Arrelano, Scott Croft, and Kevin Young — whose relationships and expertise are at the heart of what we do. As a proud, family-owned Colorado business, we look forward to serving our loyal customers, welcoming new ones, and supporting the employees who make it all possible.