Chris Sorenson, co-founder of Firehouse Subs and a former firefighter, has died at 65.
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PEOPLE reports that Sorenson died on Oct. 11. His obituary said that the entrepreneur "passed away peacefully at his home" with "his family at his side."
Firehouse Subs Was a "Reflection" of Who Sorenson Was
Sorenson and his brother founded the popular sandwich chain in 1994. It presently has over 1,200 locations and over $1 billion in annual system sales. Restaurant Brands International bought the company in 2021.
According to his obituary, Sorenson came up with the restaurant's firefighter theme. He also served as the brand's archivist.
"Everything the guest saw when they entered Firehouse was a reflection of Chris's spirit," the tribute said.
Before he opened Firehouse Subs, Sorenson was an engineer and EMT with the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department, as the department noted on its Facebook page. It shared that his "connection to the fire service remained at the heart of his work."
"His contributions have strengthened the capabilities of first responders nationwide to protect the communities they serve, leaving a legacy that will continue for generations," the department's tribute read.
Sorenson Was Also Known for His Philanthropic Work
Sorenson also co-founded the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation in 2005, extending his commitment to first responders. It raised money to provide life-saving equipment, support prevention education initiatives, and aid in disaster relief.
The organization has donated $118 million to 7,700 departments in the U.S. and Canada. Sorenson's obituary said he "considered the Foundation to be his most meaningful public and professional achievement."
"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Chris Sorenson," Firehouse Subs president Mike Hancock said in a statement. "Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who knew him."
Hancock added that the brand's foundation has created "a lasting legacy of giving back to first responders and the communities they serve."
Sorenson was also a cancer survivor and a musician who sat in with Earth, Wind & Fire. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Kristen, and his son and daughters. He also leaves behind six grandchildren, his parents, and several other family members.
