Michael Duarte, the influencer and chef known for his love of all things barbecue, died in a “horrible incident” while traveling with his family in Texas, his friends and agent confirmed Tuesday.
The self-taught grill master, who posted about his craft under the Instagram handle Food with Bear Hands, died on Saturday, “just three short days” after he and his wife, Jessica Duarte, celebrated their ninth year wedding anniversary, according to a GoFundMe set up for his family.
His age and cause of death were not disclosed.
“This heartbreak came without warning,” the appeal said, seeking money for funeral expenses, transport of his body back to California, and financial support for Jessica and the couple’s 6-year-old daughter, Oakley.
The influencer hailed from Calipatria, California, a small city about 50 miles north of the Mexico border. He began cooking in his uncle’s Mexican restaurant at age 14, then moved to San Diego at 18, working his way up at various restaurants from dishwasher to manager.
COVID-19 brought lockdown, a “breaking point” and a “mental health crisis” that sent him to rehab, he wrote in an autobiographical Instagram post late last month.
After rehab, Duarte discovered a passion for creating cooking videos and decided to make it his living. He had amassed 12 million followers across several social media platforms prior to his death.
Bereaved friends, fellow foodies, fans and others mourned the loss of a “loving husband, father, brother and a great friend to many,” as the funding appeal described him.
“He was a true and loyal partner, a trusted collaborator, and above all, a remarkable person,” his talent agency, Alooma Media Group, posted on Instagram. “His passion, professionalism and creativity left a lasting mark not only on our team but on everyone who had the privilege of working with him.”
Duarte had just partnered with British specialty-knife firm The Cooking Guild, designing a cleaver embossed with a bear that was about to go on the market. On Monday, the business posted a tribute and said sales would continue, with proceeds being sent to the fundraiser. By Tuesday, all the knives had been snapped up.
“The Food With Bear Hands Cleaver has officially sold out thanks to you,” the Cooking Guild posted, along with video of Duarte excitedly examining a prototype. “The support of this amazing community, friends and family has been incredible. Michael’s legacy will live on forever through this knife and everyone who supported it.”
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Dining and Cooking