Obituaries

Former Google Chef, Facebook's Josef Desimone Died Monday

Mark Zuckerberg announces that Desimone died in motorcycle accident.

In a heartfelt Facebook post, company Founder Mark Zuckerberg shared some sad news.

Josef Desimone, the company's executive chef since 2008, had been killed in a motorcycle accident on Monday. Before Facebook, Desimone had served as Google's executive chef.

Zuckerberg described Desimone as "a Facebook legend and institution" who "never compromised on quality while maintaining total attention to detail."

An active man, Desimone volunteered around the region with veterans’ organizations and hosted firefighter breakfasts, including the Mountain View Fire Department.

"The Mountain View Fire Department sends our heartfelt condolences out to the family and friends of Facebook Chef Josef Desimone who passed away yesterday," a Facebook post on the MVFD said. "Josef believed in giving back to the community and was an integral part of our annual Pancake Breakfast team. We will miss Josef’s big smile, larger than life personality, and commitment to giving back to the community! This year’s breakfast won’t be the same without Chef Joey but we know you will be smiling down upon us!"

Since Monday, Zuckerberg's Facebook post has more than 360 comments with memories and condolences. 

"We will find a way to permanently honor Josef’s legacy at Facebook soon," Zuckerberg. "For now, let’s remember and celebrate the passing of a great friend, devoted mentor and inspirational leader."


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