This weekend, friends, family, and the culinary world joined in shock and mourning by the sudden passing of 90-year-old restaurant tycoon Leroy Earl “Bus” Fuller. 

A statement given by the Fuller family today confirmed that the West Vancouver restaurateur passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by loved ones. 

Fuller exited the lucrative landscape of oil and gas to pursue his dreams of owning a restaurant, and after opening his first A&W franchise in the late 1950s, he and his son Stan opened the doors to the first Earls in Edmonton in 1982. A year later, Fuller opened a second location in North Vancouver and the rest was history. 

Fuller now leaves behind a 65-year restaurant legacy that includes the likes of Earls, JOEY, Cactus Club, and Browns Social House. A pioneer of the premium-casual dining concept, Fuller’s contribution to Canada’s culinary culture was a driving force for its rapid growth throughout his tenure as a restaurateur. 

“A long-time resident of West Vancouver, Bus was well known within the community he was proud to call home. Those fortunate enough to work alongside and know Bus have lost an inspiring mentor, a charismatic leader and a true friend,” the Fuller family said in a public statement.” Bus leaves behind a legacy that exists because of his dedication, hard work and ability to surround himself with great people. He has touched the hearts of many and will be forever loved and missed."