The inventor of the frisbee was cremated and made into a frisbee after he died

The Inventor of the Frisbee: From Creation to Cremation

The Frisbee, an iconic and beloved toy enjoyed by millions around the world, has an intriguing origin story. Its creator, Walter Morrison, left an everlasting mark on the world not only through his invention but also in the unique manner in which he was laid to rest. When Morrison passed away, he was cremated and his ashes were transformed into his very own creation — a Frisbee.

Walter Frederick Morrison, born on January 16, 1920, dedicated his life to innovation and playfulness. In the early 1940s, he developed a simple round plastic disc called the “Flyin-Saucer” with his partner Warren Franscioni. This invention paved the way for the Frisbee we know today. Inspired by the pie tins tossed by college students from the Ivy League school campuses, they focused on designing a flying disc that was lightweight, easy to throw, and enjoyable to catch.

The Frisbee gained immense popularity when Morrison updated its design and established his own toy company, Wham-O, in 1957. The name “Frisbee” was later trademarked, a play on the term “frisbie” which referred to the pie tins tossed by students. This toy became an integral part of popular culture, with people of all ages engaging in various Frisbee sports and recreational activities.

When Walter Morrison died in February 2010 at the age of 90, his devotion and connection to his creation did not end there. He had previously expressed his wish to be cremated and transformed into a Frisbee after his passing. Morrison’s family honored his unconventional request, ensuring that his final resting place would be intertwined with his most famous creation.

The unique tribute to Morrison’s life and work was accomplished by adding a small amount of his ashes into the plastic mixture used to make Frisbees. These commemorative Frisbees were not intended for commercial distribution but were instead cherished by his family and close friends. Thus, his legacy lives on in a truly remarkable and tangible form, allowing loved ones to relive fond memories and keep him close during joyous play.

Walter Morrison’s vision and creativity continue to inspire countless individuals to embrace outdoor activities and the spirit of play. His unique final journey serves as a testament to the profound impact one can have on the world through their inventions and passions.

This article is based on information from Business Insider and acknowledges the use of two images from here and here.