Billionaire Inventor of the Frozen Burrito Dies at 88

Duane Roberts, the billionaire entrepreneur best known for inventing the frozen burrito, has passed away.

According to a statement from his wife, Kelly J. Roberts, Duane died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday night, just days before what would have been his 89th birthday. He was surrounded by his family and their three dogs.

Kelly described her husband as “a visionary entrepreneur, devoted husband, and a man whose heart and generosity forever shaped our family and community.” She added, “I feel so blessed to have shared 35 wonderful years of marriage with Duane. Together, we built a beautiful life working side by side.” She went on to say that he was an incredible husband, stepfather, and loving grandfather whose wisdom and warmth touched every generation of their family.

Roberts’ stepchildren, Doug and Casey Reinhardt, are familiar faces to fans of MTV’s The Hills.

After serving honorably in the U.S. military, Duane changed the food industry forever in 1956 by creating the frozen burrito — a convenient meal that would become a staple in American households.

Beyond his business success, Roberts was also a respected philanthropist and developer. He was best known for restoring the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in Riverside, California, and was deeply committed to supporting animal welfare, education, veterans, and the arts.

Duane Roberts was 88 years old.