William “Bill” Post, the man credited with inventing the iconic toaster pastry Pop-Tarts, has passed away at the age of 96. Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Post was one of seven children of Dutch immigrants. He attended Grand Rapids Christian High School and began working part-time as a truck washer at Hekman Biscuit Company, which later became Keebler Company. Post's journey with Hekman started at a young age, and he eventually became the company's personnel manager by the time he was 21. He worked in various departments, including sales and production, showcasing his dedication and versatility.

Post's career took an interesting turn when Kellogg's approached Keebler with an idea for a new breakfast product. The Kellogg's executives envisioned a pastry that resembled a slice of bread with fork marks around the edges and a filling, which could be toasted. Post took on the challenge and assembled a team to develop Kellogg's concept into a marketable product. Although he is often credited with inventing Pop-Tarts, Post humbly acknowledged that it was a collective effort.

In 1964, Pop-Tarts made their debut with four original flavors: strawberry, blueberry, brown sugar cinnamon, and apple-currant. The toaster pastries quickly gained popularity and have remained a beloved breakfast item for over six decades. In 2022 alone, approximately 3 billion Pop-Tarts were sold, emphasizing the enduring appeal of Post's creation.

Post's career continued to flourish, and in 1967, he relocated to Elmhurst, Illinois, to work at the Keebler corporate offices as a senior vice president. He retired at the age of 56 but remained a consultant for Kellogg's for the next 20 years, showcasing his dedication and expertise.

Aside from his professional achievements, Post was known for his humble and generous nature. He actively participated in his community, serving on school boards, church committees, and the YMCA. He was also a dedicated member of Gideons International for 60 years, spreading his faith and offering comfort to those in need.

Post's wife, Florence, whom he married in high school, passed away in 2020. He is survived by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life. Post's impact extended beyond his family, as he frequently shared the story of Pop-Tarts with students and media outlets, always emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the invention.

His positive attitude and infectious smile left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. Post's story of the four-month challenge to create Pop-Tarts has even inspired a Netflix film titled "Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story," set to be released in May. The movie, written and directed by Jerry Seinfeld, features a star-studded cast of comedians, paying tribute to Post's remarkable contribution to breakfast culture.