Local celebrity chef Lance Seeto is fondly remembered for his remarkable culinary talents as well as his roles as an educator, storyteller, friend, and mentor. These heartfelt sentiments were expressed by Marc McElrath, managing director of McDonald’s Fiji, during a funeral service held to honor Mr. Seeto yesterday.
Family, friends, and colleagues gathered at the Dignified Crematorium in Davuilevu to pay their final respects to the beloved chef. Mr. Seeto was discovered deceased in his Suva apartment on October 28, with police investigations ruling out any foul play.
In his eulogy, Mr. McElrath celebrated Mr. Seeto as an extraordinary individual with a profound passion for creativity and food. He emphasized how Mr. Seeto conveyed the essence of his heritage, struggles, and love for local ingredients through his culinary creations. “He had the incredible ability to transform simple ingredients into something magical,” Mr. McElrath noted, adding that Mr. Seeto’s dishes were vibrant and reflective of his bold personality.
Mr. Seeto was renowned not just for his cooking but also for his commitment to sustainability and the use of local ingredients, which set him apart in the culinary scene. Beyond the kitchen, he made a significant impact as an author and television presenter, captivating audiences with shows like “Taste of Paradise” and “Exotic Delights,” which delved into the depths of Fijian cuisine and its cultural importance.
His legacy extends through his mentorship of young chefs, inspiring many in the culinary arts to embrace creativity while honoring tradition. Mr. Seeto’s dedication to education and guidance left a lasting influence on the industry, with many chefs continuing to carry his principles forward.
He is survived by his parents and two sisters, who, along with the entire culinary community, will undoubtedly carry on his legacy of creativity, sustainability, and love for the culinary arts.
The heartfelt tributes shared during the service remind us of the positive impact one individual can have in the lives of many, encouraging us to celebrate and honor the legacies of those who have touched our lives.
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