Jeanot Acheritogaray

When I was a young lad, Jeanot was the dad that I wanted to be when I grew up. A good man, and most importantly living a good life. There are warm homes you encounter in life, but this was warmth that began outside on the porch, started with a handshake, and never waned through an evening. Somehow he and Marie always put up with me showing up at odd hours, and made me feel incredibly welcome and loved in their presence.

These days I often make speeches for the French and California wine industries. Somehow when I prepare for each speech I always think of Jeanot and Marie, as they are the prototypes for me of how I would start a good evening. With smiles, stories, great food, and maybe a nice glass wine.

Several years ago I had the pleasure to see Jeanot for the last time in Clear Lake, and it was as if nothing had changed, and all was still perfect in life. I was proud to introduce to him and Marie my new wife, Yeonock, who was instantly welcomed and charmed by this wonderful man. He was of course the older version of Jeanot, yet the same.

I will continue thinking of him every time I hear a Giants game on the radio, every time I think of the best moments of my childhood, and every time I think of what makes a good life and a good man.

Our thoughts are with Marie, Philippe, Cathleen, Robert, and the entire family.

Thank you, Jeanot Acheritogaray.

The beginning of a beautiful life in the Richmond District, SF, California.