The Metro Vancouver–based patriarch of a family restaurant empire that helped define the premium casual dining market in Western Canada has passed away at the age of 90.

The Fuller family released a statement today (October 7) to announce that Leroy Earl “Bus” Fuller died at his home, surrounded by family, this past weekend. The family did not disclose the cause of death and have asked for privacy.

"Those fortunate enough to work alongside and know Bus have lost an inspiring mentor, a charismatic leader and a true friend," the family said in a statement. "Bus leaves behind a legacy that exists because of his dedication, hard work and ability to surround himself with great people. He has touched the hearts of many and will be forever loved and missed."

Fuller, who was a longtime resident of West Vancouver, was born in in 1928 in Cincinatti, Ohio.

He opened his first restaurant, the Green and White Drive-In, in Sunburst, Montana, in 1954.

In the 1950s, he moved to Edmonton, Alberta, where he operated A&W franchises.

Although he moved to West Vancouver in the late ’70s, he and his son Stanley opened the first Earls restaurant in Edmonton in 1982 and a second location in North Vancouver in 1984.

The family also owns Joey Restaurants, which opened in 1992 and now has 27 locations with CEO Jeff Fuller.

The Fuller family are also majority stakeholders of Cactus Club, which Bus Fuller helped Richard Jaffray and Scott Morison open in 1988 in North Vancouver.