The Connecticut native passed away unexpectedly on Monday, December 15, according to his obituary. No cause of death has been publicly released.
Gagnon is survived by his wife, Stephanie, their two children, Haylee and Mason, his parents Raymond and Donna Gagnon, his brother Devin Gagnon, and several extended family members.
While Gagnon worked in construction, cooking was his true passion. He brought that passion to a national audience when he competed on season 11 of Fox’s MasterChef, which premiered in 2021. Appearing on the “Legends” season, Gagnon cooked for judges Gordon Ramsay, Aarón Sánchez, and Joe Bastianich, as well as guest judges including Curtis Stone and Paula Deen. He was eliminated in the sixth episode of the season.
Friends and family remember Gagnon as a devoted father and a joyful presence. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, he was described as someone who brought constant laughter to those around him. He was active in local golf leagues, proudly served as a “Daddy Caddy” for his son, and loved cheering on his daughter Haylee at her events. His homemade ravioli was a favorite among his children, and his obituary highlights family memories such as backyard camping trips and vacations to Walt Disney World.
A GoFundMe created to help support his family describes Gagnon as quick-witted, generous, and deeply loved. The page notes that he had a gift for bringing people together through food, humor, and warmth, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.