Chuck Williams, founder of luxury cooking shop Williams-Sonoma, passed away at age 100 in his San Francisco home on Saturday, December 5, CNN reports.

“The Williams-Sonoma family has lost a dear friend, an inspiring mentor and our favorite cook. Chuck Williams’ spirit will live on forever in our kitchens – and in our heart,” said the company in a Facebook post. 

Chuck opened his first store in 1956 in downtown Sonoma, specializing in French cookware, and has written over 100 cookbooks. The company now operates more than 260 stores in the united states and Canada, as well as cooking schools inside the Sydney, San Fransisco and Chicago locations.