California food creator Michael Duarte, known online as FoodWithBearHands, died on Nov. 8, 2025. His family says it was a “horrible accident” while he was traveling in Texas. He had just marked nine years of marriage with his wife, Jessica, three days before. They have a 6-year-old daughter named Oakley. He shared cooking and BBQ videos and had over 2 million followers across Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. His talent agency, Alooma Media Group, also shared the sad news and praised his kindness and hard work. A GoFundMe is raising money to bring him home to California and help with funeral costs.
Who was Michael Duarte? Loved food and family
Michael Duarte was a kind, smiling food creator from California known to millions online as FoodWithBearHands. He loved cooking, sharing recipes, and making people happy through his food videos. Michael Duarte grew up in Calipatria, California, near the U.S.–Mexico border. He learned to cook at 14 in his uncle’s small Mexican restaurant. He later worked at many places in San Diego. In the COVID-19 years, he began posting simple cooking clips. He said making videos with his daughter made him feel happy and gave him hope that this could be a real job. Online, his goal was clear and kind. His bio said his purpose was to share food with people who need it most. Fans loved his grilling and BBQ recipes. He showed easy steps, tasty plates, and warm family moments. That honest style helped him build a big, loyal community. On Nov. 9, Alooma Media Group wrote a tribute. They called him a devoted husband, a loving father, and a true partner. They said he was warm, loyal, and creative, and that he made people feel seen and inspired. Also Read: Michael Duarte Cause Of Death: How Did The Food Influencer FoodWithBearHands DieThe GoFundMe page says the accident happened on Saturday, Nov. 8, during a family trip to Texas. It asks people to pray for the family and notes the hard costs of bringing him home and paying for the funeral. The page also says Michael Duarte’s death came just three days after his wedding anniversary with Jessica.
