Firehouse Subs Co-Founder Chris Sorensen Passes Away at Age 65

Remembering Chris Sorensen

Chris Sorensen, a prominent entrepreneur who helped build a major American dining brand, has passed away at the age of 65. Before leaving a lasting mark on the culinary world, chris sorensen led a diverse career that spanned professional music and emergency services.

From Firefighting and Music to the Culinary Scene

Long before entering the restaurant sector, Sorensen worked as a professional guitarist. According to his obituary, he performed alongside notable musical acts such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, Foreigner, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Huey Lewis and the News. Following in the footsteps of his father, Robert, he transitioned into public safety. He served at the Brevard County Fire Department, the Jacksonville International Airport Fire and Rescue Department, and spent a decade as an engineer and EMT at the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department.

Building the Firehouse Subs Legacy

In 1994, chris sorensen and his younger brother, Robin, launched their dream by co-founding Firehouse Subs in their hometown of Jacksonville, Florida. Historical accounts note they started with less than $100 in their checking accounts. Interestingly, their very first customer order was not a sub sandwich at all, but two hot dogs loaded with roughly ten different ingredients.

The establishment quickly gained fame for its warm, toasted rolls piled high with steamed meats and cheeses. As the business expanded, Sorensen took creative charge of the restaurant interiors, ensuring each location featured custom murals depicting local police and fire services. He also acted as the company's unofficial archivist, preserving historical artifacts related to the brand.

Community Impact and Philanthropy

In 2005, the brothers established the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation to support first-responders with education, tools, and life-saving equipment. The organization has since distributed over $118 million in grants across thousands of departments in the United States and Canada. After the brand was sold in 2021 to Restaurant Brands International for one billion dollars, the franchise network expanded to exceed 1,200 locations.

Sources: Fox News, New York Post, Space Coast Daily.