Anthony Sedlak Dies: Canadian Celebrity Chef Found Dead at 29

The Toronto Sun is reporting the sad news that Canadian celebrity chef Anthony Sedlak has died at the age of 29.

According to the Sun, Sedlak’s body was found in his North Vancouver apartment at around 7pm on Friday, but the exact time of his death remains unknown.

“His unexpected and sudden death has devastated his family, friends and the culinary community,” a statement from the popular chef’s family said.

Sedlak, best-known as the host of Food Network Canada’s show The Main, and a judge on Family Cook Off, is said to have begun his culinary career at the young age of 13, preparing an assortment of delectable dishes for family and friends.

After completing a culinary arts program and four-year apprenticeship in Vancouver at the age of 19, Sedlak spent almost two years at La Trompette, a Michelin Star restaurant in London, England honing his cooking skills.

At 23, Sedlak won silver representing Canada at the World Junior Chef Challenge in New Zealand, and just months later, won Food Network’s Superstar Chef Challenge, before going on to host his own show on that network for four seasons.

In addition to cooking, the Vancouver Sun writes that Sedlak was also a passionate cyclist, logging hundreds of miles weekly on his road bike. Anthony also had a knack for writing as he authored the Canadian bestselling cookbook, The Main.

Upon hearing of Sedlak’s death, swarms of his fans took to the web to offer their condolences.

Food Writer, nutritionist and author Theresa Albert said via HuffPo Cananda:

My deepest condolences to his friends and family for this great loss. I only knew a fraction of Anthony and for a relatively short period of time, but I will never forget what it was like learning with him and watching him fly.

A private funeral service for Anthony Sedlak’s family will be held in Vancouver.