– Pop-Tart Inventor William Post Dies
– Pop-Tart Inventor William Post’s Legacy.

Iconic Pop-Tart Creator William “Bill” Post Passes Away at 96

William “Bill” Post, the mastermind behind the beloved breakfast food, Pop-Tarts, has sadly passed away at the age of 96. The news of his passing was announced in a local obituary from The Grand Rapids Press, revealing that he died on Saturday, February 10th.

Early Life and Career

Born on June 27, 1927, in Michigan to Dutch immigrants, Bill Post grew up in the Grand Rapids area. At the young age of 16, he started working as a truck washer at the Hekman Biscuit Company. Even after serving in the Army Air Corps in Japan, he returned to his job at Hekman and eventually became a personnel manager at the age of 21.

As Hekman transformed into the Keebler Company, Post found himself in a pivotal role as the plant manager. It was during this time in the early 1960s that Keebler collaborated with Kellogg’s to develop a groundbreaking breakfast product. Post led the team that created what we now know as the Pop-Tart, a project that took four months to complete. Originally called “fruit scones,” the item quickly gained popularity and was renamed the Pop-Tart.

In a 2021 interview with WWMT, Bill Post reminisced about the skepticism they faced during the creation of the Pop-Tart. He recalled how some of his close friends doubted the idea, saying, “I don’t know, Bill,” and advising against it. However, their doubts were proven wrong as the Pop-Tart became an instant success.

Contributions and Legacy

Kellogg’s later acquired the Keebler Company, which prompted Post and his family to move to Elmhurst, Illinois, where he served as senior vice president until his retirement at the age of 56. Even after retiring, he remained connected to the company as a consultant for another 20 years. In 2003, he relocated back to Grand Rapids to be closer to his family.

Aside from his work at Kellogg’s, Bill Post actively served as a board member for various schools, churches, and the YMCA. He leaves behind a lasting legacy not only as the creator of the Pop-Tart but also as a dedicated community member. He is survived by his two children, four grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren.

The Pop-Tart Story on the Big Screen

The incredible story behind the creation of Pop-Tarts is set to be brought to life in an upcoming Netflix film called “Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story.” The film, directed by Jerry Seinfeld, features an ensemble cast including Seinfeld himself, Melissa McCarthy, Jim Gaffigan, Amy Schumer, Hugh Grant, James Marsden, Jack McBrayer, Thomas Lennon, Adrian Martinez, Bobby Moynihan, Max Greenfield, Christian Slater, Sarah Cooper, and Maria Bakalova. While it remains unknown if Post will be portrayed in the movie, fans eagerly anticipate the release of this homage to classic comedies.

In conclusion, we extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fans of William “Bill” Post. His creativity and innovation have left an indelible mark on breakfast culture, and the legacy of the Pop-Tart will continue to bring joy to countless people around the world.