Firehouse Subs co-founder Chris Sorensen dies at 65

Key points

• Chris Sorensen died peacefully at his home on October 11, 2026, surrounded by family.
• He co-founded Firehouse Subs with his brother Robin in 1994 in Mandarin, Florida.
• The brothers sold the chain to Restaurant Brands International for $1 billion in 2021.
• Sorensen co-founded the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation in 2005.
• The foundation has awarded over $118 million in grants to 7,700 departments.

Background

Sorensen’s death follows a series of high-profile deaths in the public safety and media sectors earlier this month. On October 8, a Durham firefighter died in a roof collapse, and on October 7, televangelist Jim Bakker passed away. Sorensen’s legacy is distinct, however, as he transitioned from a career in fire service and music to become a major restaurateur and philanthropist. His work with the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation has been a long-standing pillar of support for first responders across the United States and Canada, distinct from the immediate tragedies affecting other emergency personnel recently.

How outlets are covering it

Action News Jax emphasizes Sorensen’s status as a local legend and his connection to the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department, noting his father’s 43-year service. News4JAX highlights his diverse career path, mentioning his time as a professional musician who sat in with bands like Earth, Wind & Fire, before becoming a firefighter. The Florida Times-Union provides detailed anecdotes from colleagues, such as Randy Wyse, who recalled Sorensen testing meat recipes at Fire Station 1. The Dignity Memorial obituary offers the most comprehensive family details, listing six grandchildren and two on the way, and noting Sorensen’s interests in archaeology and paleontology. While all sources agree on the $1 billion sale price and the foundation’s impact, they differ in emphasis: local outlets focus on his community roots, while the obituary details his personal hobbies and family structure.

Why it matters

Sorensen’s death marks the end of an era for a brand that became a cultural staple in Jacksonville and beyond. His establishment of the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation has provided critical resources to thousands of emergency departments, creating a lasting legacy of support for first responders. His transition from firefighter to entrepreneur illustrates a unique path in the restaurant industry, blending public service with commercial success.

What to watch

A Celebration of Life service is scheduled for October 23, 2026, at The Church of Eleven22 in St. Johns, Florida. A reception will follow at Marywood Retreat & Conference Center. The family has requested donations to the Eric Sorensen Motor Speech Program at Brooks Rehabilitation or the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation in lieu of flowers. Sorensen’s family, including his wife Kirsten and children, will continue to support the foundation’s mission.