Ronnie Kelii Lee-Apolo Obituary: Beloved Chef and San Jose Legend Passes Away at the Age of 37, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Love, Kindness, and Infectious Laughter
Ronnie Kelii Lee-Apolo, a renowned chef at Goodtime Bar in San Jose, California, tragically passed away on Monday, June 17, 2024, at the age of 37, leaving his family, friends, and the entire San Jose community in shock and dismay. The news of his unexpected passing was announced on Instagram, stating, “We are indescribably heartbroken to share that our Ronnie Keli’i Lee-Apolo unexpectedly passed away yesterday.” Ronnie’s untimely death has left a huge void in the lives of those who knew him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones.
Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, Ronnie moved to San Jose, California, at the age of 13, where he became immersed in the punk scene and developed a passion for cooking. Despite struggling in school and never obtaining a diploma, Ronnie’s intelligence and determination led him to pursue a career in culinary arts. He started working at the age of 16 and eventually landed a job at Google, where he met his close friend and mentor, the lead vocalist of Mokosos. Ronnie’s culinary journey took him to Bon Appétit, where he worked under the guidance of Chef Hilary Bergh, who recognized his talent and allowed him to work in the kitchen.
Ronnie’s love for cooking and his infectious laughter made him a beloved figure in the San Jose community. His presence brought joy to all who knew him, and his kindness and warmth touched the lives of many. Ronnie’s spirit continues to shine brightly through the memories he shared, the love he gave, and his ALOHA. May his gentle soul rest in peace, knowing he was loved and cared for deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up by Ronnie’s sister-in-law, Mayra Villafana, to assist with funeral expenses and a monument. The campaign aims to raise funds to celebrate Ronnie’s life and legacy, and all donations will go towards honoring his memory.
Ronnie Kelii Lee-Apolo’s passing is a tremendous loss to the San Jose community, and his memory will be deeply missed. His legacy will continue to inspire others through his love, kindness, and infectious laughter. Rest in peace, Ronnie Kelii Lee-Apolo. Your spirit will live on in our hearts forever.
Ronnie’s journey in the culinary world was marked by his determination and passion. He worked multiple jobs as a cook and eventually landed a job at Goodtime Bar, where he became a beloved chef and a local legend. His love for cooking was evident in everything he did, and his legacy will continue to inspire others to pursue their passions with determination and joy.
The San Jose community is coming together to mourn the loss of Ronnie Kelii Lee-Apolo, a beloved chef, and a bright light that will live on in our memories and love for him. His memory will continue to inspire others through his love, kindness, and infectious laughter. Rest in peace, Ronnie Kelii Lee-Apolo. Your spirit will live on in our hearts forever.
Ronnie’s family and friends are in shock and dismay, struggling to come to terms with his untimely passing. The community is rallying around them, offering support and condolences during this difficult time. Ronnie’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his legacy will continue to inspire others to pursue their passions with determination and joy.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the GoFundMe campaign set up in Ronnie’s memory. All donations will go towards celebrating Ronnie’s life and legacy, and honoring his memory. The campaign aims to raise funds to assist with funeral expenses and a monument, and all contributions will be deeply appreciated.
Ronnie Kelii Lee-Apolo may be gone, but his legacy will never be forgotten. His love, kindness, and infectious laughter will continue to inspire others, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, Ronnie Kelii Lee-Apolo. Your spirit will live on in our hearts forever.
