William ‘Bill’ Post
Inventor of Pop-Tarts
Dies at 96.
William “Bill” Post, Co-Inventor of Pop-Tarts, Passes Away at 96
William “Bill” Post, the man who played a pivotal role in the creation of the beloved breakfast treat known as Pop-Tarts, has died at the age of 96, according to an obituary released by Michigan’s MKD Funeral Homes.
Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Post began his career at the Hekman Biscuit Company at the young age of 16, where he started off washing trucks. After serving in the Army Air Corps, he returned to the company and quickly climbed the ranks, eventually becoming the personnel manager at just 21 years old.
It was during his time as the plant manager at Hekman, which later became the Keebler Company, that Post was approached by executives from Kellogg’s. They sought his expertise in developing a new product idea they had in mind.
Although often credited with inventing the Pop-Tart, Post humbly acknowledged that it was a team effort. He stated, “I assembled an amazing team that developed Kellogg’s concept of a shelf-stable toaster pastry into a fine product that we could bring to market in the span of just four months.”
Pop-Tarts, with its flaky crust and wide variety of flavors, has become a staple on breakfast tables worldwide. The brand, now owned by Kellanova, boasts close to 100 unexpected flavors on their website.
Upon hearing the news of Post’s passing, Kellanova released a statement expressing their gratitude for his contributions to the company and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
Post continued his career at Keebler’s corporate offices until retiring at the age of 56. However, he remained involved with the company as a consultant for the following 20 years.
Pop-Tarts has not only made an impact on breakfast tables but has also permeated popular culture. The brand has been referenced in various media, including a viral moment where a mascot was devoured by a college football team.
Comedian Paula Poundstone and renowned funnyman Jerry Seinfeld have both expressed their love for Pop-Tarts in their respective routines.
In fact, Seinfeld has gone as far as making a movie about the creation of Pop-Tarts, which will be available on Netflix starting May 3.
William Post was married to his wife for an impressive 72 years before her passing in 2020. He is survived by his two children, their spouses, seven grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren.
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1. William ‘Bill’ Post Inventor of Pop-Tarts Dies at 96
2. Inventor of Pop-Tarts William ‘Bill’ Post Passes Away at 96.
