Well-known Gozitan chef, Roger ‘Chef Roger’ Debono passed away last week, the Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) announced on Monday.

He was a prominent figure in the local catering industry, where he worked from 1998 till 2013, first as Executive Chef at the Kempinksi San Lawrenz Hotel, where he was involved in the pre-opening and food concept creation of the multiple food and beverage outlets of the luxury establishment.

He then served from 2003 to 2013 as Executive Chef at the Hotel Calypso in Marsaelforn, where he was involved in the pre-opening and creating of food concepts at the newly refurbished property.

Prior to his time in Gozo, he worked as Sous Chef at The Westin Dragonara Resort, and Head Chef at Da Picci Restaurant and The Diplomat Hotel Malta.

Aside from this, he was a part of the team set up by the GTA and the Malta Culinary Association to organise the event ‘Enjoying It’, where he is said to have “worked hard for the success of the event.”

He leaves to mourn his loss his wife Sophie (Nok) and her children Perapech, Perapech, Krittiya, Thanapoom and Siriyakorn, as well as other relatives and friends.

Mr Debono’s funeral will be held at St Julian’s parish church on Tuesday and interment will take place at Santa Maria Addolorata Cemetary.

Marking his passing, his family issued their thanks to the staff at the Palliative Ward at Sir Anthony Mamo Oncology Centre.