John F. Popp, the man who guided Aunt Millie's Bakeries through more than four decades of growth and change, has died at the age of 94. The company confirmed in a news release Wednesday that Popp, who served as president and CEO, passed away on July 31. He is being remembered as a leader whose faith, family, and deep appreciation for people were the cornerstones of his life and work.

Born on March 2, 1932, Popp was a third-generation member of the baking family. He attended North Side High School in Fort Wayne before earning a degree from the University of Michigan. After college, he served as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army, then returned to the family business. But in 1967, he stepped away to pursue a career in real estate, where he developed several subdivisions that still shape the region today, including Devil's Hollow, Manitou, Lakewood, West Hamilton Estates, White Loon, and Winding Brook.

In 1980, Popp came back to Perfection Bakeries, the company that would eventually become Aunt Millie's as the family-owned operation expanded. The roots of the business stretch back even further, to the Wayne Biscuit Co., which first opened its doors more than 80 years ago. For the majority of that time, the bakery was housed at a facility on Pearl Street in downtown Fort Wayne, a building topped with a towering Sunbeam Bread sign that became a local landmark for 67 years. The company moved its headquarters to Bluffton Road in 2024, and the downtown property was purchased in 2018 by Chuck Surack, founder of Sweetwater Sound. The iconic sign was removed from the roof in January 2025.

Rick Brown, chief customer officer at Aunt Millie's, described Popp's leadership style as one rooted in humility and a genuine care for others. "He knew that success was built on people," Brown said. "He cared deeply about our employees, our customers, our communities, and the generations of families who have made Aunt Millie's a trusted name. His leadership was defined by humility, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to doing what was right."

The company's release echoed that sentiment, noting that Popp's optimism and encouragement were felt by everyone around him. "His leadership was not simply about growing a business; it was about building an organization where people could grow, contribute, and feel that they were part of something bigger than themselves."

Popp's influence extended beyond the bakery. An advocate for independent bakeries nationwide, he was inducted into the Baking Hall of Fame by the American Society of Bakers and Engineers in 2021. He also served as an appointee on the Indiana Commission for Higher Education from 2013 to 2022.

Away from work, Popp's life was rich with passion and activity. He loved spending time at Lake Wawasee, water skiing, taking trips to Florida and Maine, and working on projects around the lake. He was known for his 1961 Corvette, his deep faith, and his family. He met his wife, Esther Rolene, at Lake Wawasee, and they married in 1960. The couple had two sons. Esther died on May 15 at the age of 94.

"His greatest legacy will not be measured solely by the company he helped build," the release said, "but by the family he loved, the people he encouraged, the lives he touched, and the values he carried with him throughout his life."

Daily operations at Aunt Millie's are expected to continue without interruption as the company mourns. The business will move forward under its existing leadership plan. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.