The inventor of Cheezies, James E. Marker, died at his home in Belleville on Tuesday night.

Marker was vice-president of W.T. Hawkins Ltd., makers of the Cheezies snack.

The company’s director of finance, Tony McGarvey, said Marker was still active in his role as vice-president when he died.

Marker was also the owner of the Belleville airport.

Hawkins Cheezies are still made at a Belleville plant.