A famous inventor has died
Photo credit: Orange County Business Journal
The world of business and innovation has lost one of its quiet trailblazers. Duane Roberts, the man who revolutionized the food industry by inventing the frozen burrito, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday night.
He was surrounded by family and their three dogs, just days before what would have been his 89th birthday.
His wife, Kelly J. Roberts, confirmed the news and described her late husband as a visionary entrepreneur and a devoted husband whose generosity touched everyone around him.
The couple shared 35 years of marriage, building a life centered on family, hard work, and community impact.
Born in California, Roberts began his career after serving in the U.S. military, where he learned discipline and leadership that would later guide his entrepreneurial journey.
In 1956, he changed the way America ate by developing the first frozen burrito - a convenient, ready-to-eat meal that would soon become a staple in homes across North America.
The invention combined his sense of practicality with his passion for innovation, marking the start of a billion-dollar industry that remains strong today.
Duane Roberts : a legacy beyond the kitchen
Roberts was more than just a businessman. He was also a philanthropist and community builder, widely recognized for restoring the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in Riverside, California.
Once on the verge of closure, the hotel was reborn under his leadership, transforming into a beloved landmark that attracts visitors from around the world. His efforts helped preserve an important piece of California's cultural heritage.
Outside of business, Roberts was deeply involved in charitable work. He donated millions of dollars to causes close to his heart - including animal welfare, education, veterans' support, and the arts.
Friends and colleagues often described him as a man whose kindness was as notable as his business acumen.
Those who knew Roberts personally say he led with compassion and a strong sense of purpose.
He believed success meant giving back, and that philosophy guided his every decision. His stepchildren, Doug and Casey Reinhardt, known for their appearances on MTV's The Hills, have shared that his wisdom and warmth influenced their entire family.
As tributes pour in, many remember Duane Roberts not just as the man who invented the frozen burrito, but as someone who redefined what it means to innovate with heart.
He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of creativity, generosity, and perseverance.
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