‘One year ago today in Italy…’ Jock Zonfrillo’s wife shares bittersweet memory

Last August Lauren and Jock were overseas with two-year-old Isla and six-year-old Alfie, with no inkling of the tragedy that awaited them just eight months later.

Pilar Grace

2 min read

August 27, 2023 - 2:47PM

Jock Zonfrillo's wife makes emotional Masterchef post

Lifestyle

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It’s been four short months since Lauren Fried lost her beloved husband Jock Zonfrillo, and the mum-of-two has been reminiscing about the happy times they spent together.

On Sunday, Lauren took to Instagram and shared a series of photos of the family’s holiday in Italy last August, when life was simpler, and their family was complete.

“One year ago today in Italy, in search of the best bowl of alla Nerano,” she captioned the sweet holiday snaps.

In one picture Jock and two-year-old Isla are having the time of their lives in a boat, in another Isla and six-year-old Alfie are holding hands with their dad as they explore the city.

“Just one bowl???” was Jock’s MasterChef co-judge Andy Allen's reply, followed by a love heart emoji.

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Lauren shared lovely memories of Jock in Italy on Instagram. Photo: Instagram

Lauren Fried shares bittersweet memory of Jock Zonfrillo

Lauren’s memories of Italy are likely bittersweet.

During their April trip this year, the family had decided to relocate to Rome permanently.

The plan was for Jock to travel back to Australia to film MasterChef, but otherwise they’d live their lives in the Italian capital.

Three weeks after making the move, Jock was back in Australia promoting the new season.

Jock Zonfrillo and his family had decided to relocate to Italy. Photo: Instagram

On April 30, the judge and chef was found dead at Zagame’s House hotel in Carlton.

Forty-six-year-old Jock’s death was from natural causes. He left behind his wife, his young children and his daughters Ava and Sophia from previous marriages.

Lauren rushed back to Melbourne with the children to mourn Jock at home.

At a private funeral, the grieving mum delivered a beautiful eulogy.

“We were two halves that found each other at the exact moment in life when we were ready,” she said at the service. “We were ready for that big love to live a life of adventure, to become parents together, to imagine extraordinary things and to actually make them happen.”