Patrick Dominique Levesque

Obituary:

Patrick Dominique Fernand Levesque, age 63, passed away on February 28, 2024, in Norton Shores, Michigan. He was born on July 3, 1960, in Notre Dame du Touchet, France, to Marie Madeleine Levesque and the late Roland Levesque. He was the second of four sons.

After grade school, Patrick started his apprenticeship in Vire, and received his culinary CAP in Caen in 1978, eventually specializing in croissants. After serving in the French Army, Patrick went to work in Dreux, in the Eure region of Normandy, with his uncle Claude Lesellier. When his uncle invested in a croissant shop in San Francisco, he invited Patrick to work there. In 1982, with his dictionary and meager English lessons, Patrick left for a new life in the United States where he gained citizenship in 2002. His culinary talents led him to become an Executive Pastry Chef, notably at Wolfgang Puck's Postrio in San Francisco, A.P. Stump's, Los Gatos Brewing, Chez TJ, and other prestigious establishments.

In 1993, he married Bonnie Palumbos and moved to Santa Fe. They later returned to the Bay Area, where Patrick went into sales and design, but office life was not for him. After their marriage ended, Patrick returned to baking, starting as Executive Pastry Chef at Hotel Sofitel and culminating at Levi Stadium's inaugural years and the 50th Super Bowl weekend.

Patrick was a man of many passions. It was while teaching his friends to make croissants that he met his future wife, Karen Mitchell. They married in 2015 sharing their mutual interest in service for others, hospitality, and love of animals. In 2018, Patrick and Karen moved to Michigan so he could work at Epi Breads in Norton Shores. He was happy to be a judge for the Taste of Muskegon and meet new culinary talents in the area.

Patrick traveled with his brothers and their families through the National Parks, exploring nature, family, and adventure. He enjoyed hosting gatherings filled with laughter and delicious meals, his warm smile, and charming accent. With a knack for mastering new skills, he was an expert in gardening, conservation, and woodworking. Patrick had a soft spot for animals, including his beloved pets Sumo, YY, and Polly.

Patrick is survived by his wife, Karen Mitchell Levesque; his loving mother, Marie Levesque; his three brothers Alain (Patricia) Levesque, Dominique (Nathalie) Levesque, and Philippe (Sylvie), as well as his niece, nephews, and their families. He was preceded in death by his father, Roland Levesque, and his cousin, Joel Levesque.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 16, at 11:30 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 12:30 p.m. and a dessert reception at St. Patrick - St. Anthony Parish in Grand Haven, MI.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Big Lake Humane Society in Muskegon, where Patrick found his loyal puppy, Polly.

Patrick's legacy of culinary excellence, warm hospitality, and love for his family and friends will forever be cherished by those who knew him.

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This obituary for Patrick Dominique Levesque captures his life's journey, career accomplishments, personal interests, and the details of his funeral service. The information provided has been respectfully incorporated to honor his memory.