Fans across the country have rallied behind Jock Zonfrillo’s daughter, Ava, with messages of love and support after she shared a moving video in tribute to her late father.
Zonfrillo passed away on Sunday, April 30 at the age of 46 with his passing triggering an outpouring of grief from fans across the nation.
As Ava continues to process her grief, she recently took to Tik Tok to share a poignant video that included a series of photos capturing some of the special moments she shared with her father.
“I never thought I’d lose you at 22,” she captioned the video.
“Life is unfair. I miss you dad.”
@avazonfrillonever thought i’d lose you at 22♬ original sound – user6179059254494
The “heartbreaking” video quickly received an outpouring of love and support from fans near and far, many taking the opportunity to reflect on the iconic celebrity chef’s life.
“So sorry for your loss Ava. Jock was and will always be my favourite Chef on MasterChef. A true gentleman and an all round wonderful man,” one fan wrote.
“Oh sweetheart, it’s so cruel and unfair that you had to lose him so young. you’re going to live an amazing life that would make him proud xoxox.”
“I had the pleasure of working with your dad once and he left such an impact on me that I’ll never forget. He was so warm and generous. Sending love.”
“Oh man, this is heartbreaking,” another commented.
“So sorry darling girl. Words just cannot console your pain, yet his love will guide and strengthen you throughout your life.”
“Your dad will always be an icon. So sorry for your loss.”
Shortly after bidding her father farewell earlier this year, Ava took to Instagram to share a moving tribute to her late father for the first time.
“Still can’t accept that we’ll be remembering you for more time than we had you, but it doesn’t mean we’ll love you any less,” she wrote at the time.
“I love you dad, always.”
Ava’s first tribute came after friends, family, and renowned chefs George Calombaris, Shannon Bennett, and Colin Fassnidge gathered to farewell to the beloved MasterChef judge in an intimate funeral.
MasterChef co-judges Andy Allen and Melissa Leong, along with tennis icon Dylan Alcott, were also in attendance.
Renowned Australian singer Jimmy Barnes delivered a heartfelt rendition of Amazing Grace as the ceremony neared its end. Zonfrillo’s coffin was adorned with white roses and orchids, draped with a Royal Banner of Scotland in honour of his heritage.
Zonfrillo is survived by his wife Lauren and his four children.