William Post, Inventor of Pop-Tarts, Dead at 96

William "Bill" Post, the innovator behind the iconic toaster pastry Pop-Tarts, passed away at the age of 96, as confirmed by his family.

A Michigan native and the son of immigrants, Post climbed the ranks from a truck washer to a senior vice president, leaving an indelible mark on breakfast routines across America when Pop-Tarts debuted in 1964.

William ‘Bill’ Post, inventor of Pop-Tarts, dead at 96 https://t.co/Fd4ngV3PlE pic.twitter.com/mcphp2ktv6

— New York Post (@nypost) February 14, 2024

Credited with the invention of the beloved breakfast treat, Post always emphasized that it was a collaborative effort, according to his obituary.

Raised in Grand Rapids as one of seven children of Dutch immigrants, he married his high school sweetheart and served in the Army Air Corps in occupied Japan.

At the age of 16, Post began a part-time job washing trucks at Hekman Biscuit Company, later known as the Keebler Company. By age 21, he had advanced to the position of personnel manager, contributing to various aspects of the company's operations.

Two decades later, as the plant manager, he played a pivotal role in developing the product that would become Pop-Tarts when executives from Kellogg's approached Hekman/Keebler with the idea.

Throughout his lifetime, Post shared the story of Pop-Tarts, always highlighting the teamwork involved in its creation. He conducted numerous interviews, visited classrooms to inspire younger generations, and generously distributed samples of his invention.

Despite his remarkable achievements, Post remained humble and attributed his success to his faith in God.

He served his local community on school boards and as a member of Gideons International for 60 years. Post's dedication to his faith and community was matched only by his devotion to his family, who were the "lights of his life."

Post's inspiring journey to invent the Pop-Tart has captured the attention of Hollywood, with a Netflix film titled "Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story" set to be released in May.

Directed and written by Jerry Seinfeld, the movie will feature a star-studded cast, paying tribute to the man whose creation has become a breakfast staple for millions.