Jagadish "Jag" Deshpande

Noted architect and artist, Jagadish "Jag" Deshpande, 79, of Hockessin, DE passed away on February 22, 2025.
Born in Amravati, India, Jag excelled during his early years in school and went on to earn his college degree from the J.J. School of Architecture.
After starting his career in New Delhi, Jag came to the United States in 1970 and began working for high-profile architecture firms in New York City.
Upon moving to Delaware, Jag rapidly made an impact on the local skyline, first as the lead architect at Tetra Tech and later as the head of his own firm. Two of his most notable local projects are the Chase Manhattan building in Wilmington and a modern extension to the Hindu temple in Hockessin.
After retiring from architecture, Jag discovered new talents as both a painter and a teacher. His unique works were exhibited at numerous galleries and shows throughout the greater Philadelphia area, and he shared his love of modern art with countless students at the University of Delaware's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.
An avid sportsman, Jag converted his childhood cricket skills into a very competitive tennis game as well as a low handicap on the golf course.
Jag had a zest for life and was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He is survived and missed by wife Kavita, sister Jyoti, brother Shashikant, daughters Disha (Nilus) Mattive and Megha Deshpande (Paul Mahoney), and grandchildren Vela Mattive, Kaya Mahoney, and Kameron Mahoney.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ambadas and Kusum, and brother Shrikant.
A celebration of life service will be held at 11AM on Thursday February 27, 2025 at Chandler Funeral Home at 7230 Lancaster Pike Hockessin, DE 19707.
Memorials or donations may be made to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute in Wilmington, https://ud.alumniq.com/giving/to/OLLIMemorial.