The Founder of Earls and Joey, a B.C based restaurant chain, Dies at 90
Leroy Earl Fuller, also known to some as, Bus, was the 90-year old founder of Earls and Joey restaurant chain. Fuller, a longtime resident of West Vancouver, died recently, leaving behind a restaurant chain that was established 65 years ago. Fuller got his start in the restaurant industry in 1954 with the opening of his first restaurant, Green and White Drive-Thru, which was in Sunburst, Montana. He eventually moved with his family to Edmonton and began operating a few of the A&W franchises. He would then go on to open his first Earls restaurant in Alberta, along with his son Stan, in 1982. It is a casual dining restaurant that started expanding after the family moved to B.C. in 1983. As of today, there are 68 Earls restaurants throughout Canada and the U.S.
Many who had the pleasure of working with Bus would agree that they lost a wonderful mentor, who was inspirational, and a charismatic man who many considered to be a good friend. Fuller leaves a legacy that he created due to his dedication and commitment to hard work. He has surrounded himself by great people over the years, which is why he has been so successful. The family statement says that he touched the hearts of many and will be forever loved and missed. The statement also mentioned that he died peacefully, while surrounded by family.
Fuller was considered to be a trendsetter that changed the Canadian restaurant landscape through his, then, business model. He was a huge influence on many. There were no upscale dining concepts that were also chain restaurants that offered consistently quality food until Fuller opened Earls. He didn’t just involve himself with his restaurant, as he has left his mark on other restaurants by helping them to create their menus.
He helped his son start the chain restaurant, Joey in 1992. There are now 28 Joey chain restaurants throughout North America. The family also owns part of the Cactus Club chain that started in 1988 by two former Earl’s serves. One of the owner’s went on to start the Brown’s Restaurant Group, which is, believe it or not, a competitor to Earls and the Cactus Club.
There is no denying that the death of fuller was felt deeply at the B.C. Restaurant Hall of Fame induction gala, as Fuller was one of the first 2005 inductees. Earls restaurant was known to have started food and beverage trends that are still being used today in the Edmonton restaurant scene. The chain owner was known for sending their chefs on culinary trips around the world so that they could bring back some inspiration to the restaurant. This helped them to learn about food and wine and later how to provide quality service.
Fuller (Bus) was a trendsetter who set the standards for the way restaurants are run today. His presence and input are sure to be felt without him.