– Man credited with inventing Pop Tart
– Inventor of Pop Tart dies at 96.
Beloved Pop Tart Inventor Bill Post Dies at 96
William “Bill” Post, the man often credited with inventing the beloved Pop Tart, has passed away at the age of 96.
Born on June 27, 1927, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Bill Post was one of seven children born to Dutch immigrants. At the young age of 16, he started working part-time washing trucks at Hekman Biscuit Company. Little did he know that this job would set him on a path to creating one of the most iconic breakfast treats.
During World War II, Post served in the Army Air Corps in occupied Japan. After his military service, he returned to Hekman at the age of 21, where he worked as the personnel manager. He also assisted with sales, production, and various other aspects of the business.
Around 20 years later, Bill Post, now the plant manager of Hekman (later known as the Keebler Company), had a fateful encounter with executives from Kellogg’s. They approached him with a request to create a new product. It is at this point that Bill is often credited with inventing the Pop Tart. However, he humbly 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.”
The Delicious Legacy of Pop Tarts
In 1964, Pop Tarts made their debut to the public with four original flavors: strawberry, blueberry, brown sugar cinnamon, and apple-currant. Today, there are between 20 to 30 flavors available, with new flavors constantly being developed and tested to cater to the ever-changing market.
In his later years, Bill Post relocated his family to Elmhurst, Illinois, where he worked at the corporate offices of the Keebler Company. After retiring at the age of 56, he settled in Glen Arbor, Michigan.
However, retirement didn’t last long for Post. He accepted Kellogg’s request to be their consultant, a role he fulfilled for the next 20 years. This opportunity allowed him to travel the world and forge international friendships. In 2003, Bill and his wife Florence moved back to Grand Rapids to be closer to their family.
A Legacy Remembered
Bill Post’s immediate family expresses their gratitude and thanks to his nieces and nephews who provided him with great care and attention in his final years.
As of now, the cause of Bill Post’s death is unknown. His passing marks the end of an era for Pop Tart enthusiasts worldwide. His contributions to the breakfast food industry will forever be cherished, and his legacy will live on in every delicious bite of a Pop Tart.
Rest in peace, Bill Post.
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– Man credited with inventing the Pop Tart dies at 96
– Inventor of the Pop Tart passes away at 96.
