Jacques Despretz

Jacques Despretz obituary, Astoria, NY

Jacques Despretz

Jacques Despretz Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Joseph Farenga & Sons Inc. on Oct. 1, 2025.

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Jacques Despretz, devoted husband, father, grandfather and lifelong New Yorker, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025.
Born in Paris, France, Jacques immigrated to New York City in 1958, where he built a life defined by family, tradition, and a deep love for his adopted city. A talented restauranteur, he owned and operated Le Bec Fin and Les Mareyeurs - New York's first French seafood restaurant - introducing countless New Yorkers to the elegance and warmth of French cuisine.
Jacques was a passionate soccer enthusiast and a lover of music, sharing both with his daughter and grandson. À la claire fontaine, a French folk song, became a cherished family tradition, sung together from his daughter's childhood through his final days.
He will be remembered for his humor, loyalty and quiet strength. Jacques leaves behind his daughter Kati, his grandson Julian, and his beloved wife Irena who will carry forward his memory, his love of music, and his heritage.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jacques, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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