The family of a Bridgeport culinary teacher opened up Sunday about his legacy and their loss.

Phil Cervero, 66, died earlier this week after a long battle with cancer.

Cervero, known as Chef C, was a culinary arts teacher at Bullard-Havens Technical High School and taught hundreds of students the art of cooking.

Autism advocate Charles Fuller was a student of Cervero’s for four years. He says the beloved chef will be remembered for his kindness.

“I learned a lot from him,” he said. “The man had such a warm heart."

Cervero's daughter Jennifer describes her dad as larger than life. She tells News 12 her dad loved spending time with his family and friends and was devoted to students and teaching.

"You know, to the people of Bridgeport, anyone that knew my dad, knew the Cervero clan," she said. "For me, his legacy is going to be of love, and a life full lived. So, you know, live your life the way he always did – with a smile, with kind words and live driven by love."

The Cervero family says the public is invited to a memorial service at Saint Margaret Mary Church in Shelton at 10 a.m. on April 22.

There will also be a celebration of his life at Booth Memorial Park in Stratford at 11 a.m. on Sunday, July 16.