Harvey Kloesel, Kloesel’s Steak House in Moulton, Texas received the Texas Restaurant Association’s highest award in recognition for his outstanding contributions to the restaurant industry and to the association. He was inducted into the TRA Hall of Honor at a ceremony held during the 2009 President’s Gala on June 29 in Dallas.

"Harvey Kloesel has been active in the TRA since 1975," said Richie Jackson, TRA executive vice president/CEO. "His success in the restaurant industry is testament to has passion, dedication and leadership. Harvey is an outstanding restaurateur and has contributed much to the association and his community. We are very pleased to induct him into the Hall of Honor."

Harvey Kloesel received his training as a cook courtesy of Uncle Sam. As a mess sergeant in the Army Reserves he learned to cook for large crowds, to serve food on time and to maintain the quality of what he prepared. Harvey opened his first restaurant in Moulton in 1970 with the help of his wife’s uncles, Ed and Calvin Ducho, who owned a large restaurant in Houston. A year later he went on to purchase the historic building in downtown Moulton that now houses Kloesel’s Steakhouse. For the past 39 years, the steakhouse and Harvey have been integral parts of the community.

Harvey has served as president of the MidCoast Chapter of the Texas Restaurant Association, on the state Board of Directors, and on the Political & Government Affairs Committee. He is extremely active in his community having served on Moulton City Council, and as president of Moulton Economic Development Committee, and Moulton Chamber of Commerce.

Congratulations, Harvey!