Leon René Galatoire

Leon René Galatoire, (Nov. 24, 1954 - Dec. 30, 2022), a New Orleans native, accomplished chef and fourth generation proprietor of Galatoire's Restaurant, died peacefully at Heritage Manor nursing home in Mandeville, La. at the age of 68. Leon is survived by his wife, Lisa Pique Galatoire and stepsons, David Doherty and Michael Doherty of Covington, La; his step-brother Charles "Chip" S. Pique III; his sisters Michele Marie Galatoire (Chachie Dupuy); and Renee Hotard Bennett (Dr. Kenneth Bennett) of St Louis, Mo. He is predeceased by his father, Gabriel René Galatoire, and mother, Leonie Evans Galatoire; and his step-brother, William "Skippy" Gus Pique. Leon leaves behind many close friends, nephews, nieces and cousins. Leon attended Sam Barthe School for Boys in Metairie and graduated from St. Stanislaus High School in Bay St Louis. His career as a chef and dining room manager, at Galatoire's from 1976 to 1996, was the highlight of his professional life. Leon's irresistible enthusiasm, quick wit, and unbridled humor, galvanized a devoted and long-lasting entourage of friends and customers. Leon would often say, "My memories of growing up in New Orleans and my lifelong affair with food and Galatoire's Restaurant, are my most cherished possessions." He spiced up his culinary life with guest chef appearances, cooking classes, and food productions nationwide and abroad. From childhood boating trips and seafood cook-offs at his Uncle Buddy's fishing camp in Empire, to sailing adventures and scuba dives in the Caribbean, Leon was greatly influenced by Creole cuisine and the cooking of the Caribbean islands. In 1994, the Leon Galatoire's Cookbook was published as a tribute to his family's historic restaurant lineage. The book is "a collection of time-tested traditional New Orleans recipes" and is his contribution "to New Orleans' grand culinary legacy". Leon's innate spark and untamed laughter will be deeply missed by all who had the good fortune to know him. Chris Buckley, a friend of Leon's , sent the following comment to Leon's sister, Michele. "Hello Michele.. God Bless you, your family, Leon's many friends, and the man's memory! Leon inspired me to cook. As a lonely, little kid, I bought his book, my first cookbook, and taught myself from there. I was so thrilled when I got to know Leon as an adult, and I will miss our phone calls. Best to you in 2023, and God bless." Chris, Adieu Leon, until we meet again. A private ceremony will be held at a later date.