– Pop-Tart inventor William ‘Bill’ Post
– Pop-Tart inventor dies at 96.
Pop-Tart Inventor Bill Post Dies at Age 96
Grand Rapids, Michigan – William “Bill” Post, the creative mind behind the iconic Pop-Tart, passed away on Saturday at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy that has delighted taste buds for generations.
Early Life and Career
Bill Post, born to Dutch immigrants, was raised in the vibrant city of Grand Rapids, Michigan. After graduating from Grand Rapids Christian High School, he served in the Army Air Corps and later attended Calvin College for two years, as stated in his obituary.
Post’s journey into the world of pastries began at the young age of 16 when he started washing trucks at Hekman Biscuit Company, which would later be known as the Keebler Company. By the time he turned 21, he had become the full-time personnel manager, and eventually rose to the esteemed position of plant manager.
The Birth of a Delicious Treat
It was during his time at Keebler that fate intervened. Kellogg’s, the renowned cereal company, approached the company in search of a delectable treat that could be toasted. Post and his team eagerly took on the challenge and within four months, they had created the beloved Pop-Tart.
Post’s son, Dan Post, fondly remembers being his father’s taste tester during the creation process. The initial versions may not have been perfect, but they steadily improved until they became the tasty treats we know today.
A Life Beyond Pop-Tarts
While the Pop-Tart is what made Bill Post a household name, his loved ones remember him as much more than just the inventor of a delicious pastry. To them, he was simply sweet, old Bill.
Dan Post, reflecting on their relationship, shared, “My Dad wasn’t just my dad. Later in life, we became very good friends. We did a lot of trips together, especially biking in places like the Netherlands, where he particularly enjoyed the flat terrain.”
After leaving Keebler, Bill Post relocated with his family to Illinois to work at the company’s corporate offices. He later retired and returned to his beloved Grand Rapids in 2003.
A Humble Man of Faith
Despite his notable achievements, Bill Post remained a humble man of God, always embodying a servant’s heart, as stated in his obituary. His son, Dan Post, attests to his father’s humility, remarking, “He would be amazed at the big deal we’re making of this. He was a very humble guy.”
Bill Post willingly shared his Pop-Tart story with countless classrooms, delighting young minds with tales of God’s goodness in his life. He even brought along a generous supply of Pop-Tarts to accompany his inspiring testimony.
A Lasting Legacy
Bill Post is survived by his two children, along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Each of them keeps a box of Pop-Tarts on hand, not only as a sweet treat but also as a cherished reminder of their beloved grandpa.
In May, Netflix is set to release “Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story,” a film that chronicles the invention of this iconic treat. Bill Post, amazed by the attention surrounding the movie, eagerly looked forward to watching it with his son, Dan, as they marveled at the journey the Pop-Tart had taken over the past 60 years.
Bill Post’s passing leaves a bittersweet feeling in the hearts of those who knew him and enjoyed his creations. His legacy will forever be etched in the history of the snack industry, bringing joy to countless lives with every bite of a Pop-Tart.
Taylor Morris contributed to this report.
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– Pop-Tart inventor William ‘Bill’ Post dies at
– Pop-Tart inventor William ‘Bill’ Post passes away at.
