Wallace “Wally” Amos, the creator of the Famous Amos cookie empire that became a household name, has passed away at the age of 88 in Honolulu, Hawaii. Despite losing ownership of the company and the rights to his name, Amos remained an iconic figure in the business world and beyond. His children remember him as a man who inspired a generation of entrepreneurs and left a lasting impact on the community.
Amos was known for his infectious optimism and colorful personality, often wearing a distinctive Panama hat and playing a kazoo. He founded the first cookie store, Famous Amos, on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles in 1975 and later moved to Hawaii, which he considered his home. Although he struggled as a businessperson and ultimately lost control of his company, Amos continued to innovate and pursue his passion for baking.
After parting ways with Famous Amos, Amos launched a new business called Chip & Cookie in Hawaii in 1991. Despite facing setbacks and challenges throughout his career, Amos never lost his love for baking and entrepreneurship. His children remember him as a man who “inspired a generation of entrepreneurs” and set an example for future generations to follow.
In addition to his cookie business, Amos co-founded Uncle Wally’s Muffin Co., which produced muffins that are sold in stores nationwide. He was also actively involved in promoting literacy and education, emphasizing the importance of reading and learning. Amos’s dedication to giving back to the community earned him numerous awards and accolades, including the Literacy Award presented by President George H.W. Bush in 1991.
Despite facing personal and professional challenges, such as losing ownership of Famous Amos and struggling with debt, Amos remained resilient and committed to his passion for baking and entrepreneurship. His children remember him as a man who loved love and inspired those around him. Amos’s legacy lives on through his children and the impact he had on the world of business and literacy.
In his later years, Amos continued to be an active advocate for literacy, serving as a spokesperson for Literacy Volunteers of America and giving motivational talks to various groups. His love for baking and reading resonated with those he touched, from children in Hawaii to corporate audiences. Amos’s story serves as a reminder of the power of determination and resilience in the face of adversity, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew him.
