Michael Kittredge II (ABC40 File Photo)

Bernardston, Mass. (WGGB) — The founder of the Yankee Candle Company, Mike Kittredge II, has suffered a stroke and is being cared for at a Boston hospital.

That’s according to Kringle Candle Company which posted an updated notice on Facebook Wednesday saying, “After a relatively good Tuesday night at the hospital, he experienced a downturn early this morning. Fortunately, doctors quickly performed successful surgery to relieve pressure on his brain, and Mike is now again stable and resting following the procedure.”

On Tuesday, the company stated on Facebook, “Earlier today, Mike Kittredge II was diagnosed as having suffered a stroke. While Mike is not in any apparent danger at this point, the total extent or effects are still not yet fully known. He has been transferred to hospital care in Boston. The next step will be for Mike to begin the recovery process and we know that many, many people will be in his corner.”

Mike Kittredge II was Yankee Candle Company’s founder and long-time CEO. In 1998 he sold most of the equity in the company and completely stepped away a few years later.

Today, Kittredge II is in business with his son, Michael Kittredge III, who founded the Kringle Candle Company on South Street in Bernardston in 2009.

The company says his family is deeply appreciative of the incredible level of support they’ve received so far.