My uncle Billy passed away a few days ago. He’d been having
health issues over the last few years, but the news still came as a sudden, and
very sad shock. He was one of my earliest inspirations for becoming a chef, and
as many of you know, we filmed several recipes together over the years from his
kitchen in Manchester, NY.
of my chef coats, and whenever I’d visit, he’d be wearing that coat, busily
cooking away, looking every bit the part. He was a barber and hairstylist by
trade, but Uncle Billy could have been a world-class chef. His passion for food,
and for life, was boundless. Running up the stairs from his second, basement
kitchen, carrying a giant pan of food, smiling broadly, talking loudly, wearing
that old, white chef coat, is how I will always remember him.
he was involved in below. In the “Homemades” video, you can actually hear Uncle
Bill helping me with the narration. Of course, in true Food Wishes style, we
only see his hands, but by watching the stylish way he handles the food, it’s
very easy to see that he had a special touch.
and the rest of the family. I can’t begin to imagine how difficult this is for
them, but hopefully they can take some comfort in knowing just how much pleasure Uncle Billy brought to those around him. Not only did he feed the
party, but he was usually the life of it too. He will be dearly missed.
to love and remember you through all the amazing dishes you so generously
shared. I know one thing, the food in heaven just got a lot better. Enjoy.