Jean-Pierre Bigotte, formerly of Rye, N.Y. and Weston, Conn., died peacefully in Ridgefield, Conn., on January 7, 2018. He was 91.

He was born on November 30, 1926 in Paris, France. 

He was co-founder and partner of Bingham-Bigotte Shipping in New York City, and he served as a governor of the American Shipbrokers Association.  

An avid sportsman, “JP” as he was called, enjoyed his time and friends at the Camp Fire Club of America in Chappaqua, where he served as the president of the Camp Fire Conservation Fund. He also served as president of Manursing Island Club. In addition to fishing and hunting, he enjoyed tennis, squash, and spending time with his family, friends, and dogs. He had an unparalleled collection of pipes whose wafted fragrance always preceded his arrival.

As his friends and family reflected, “JP was the embodiment of a man’s man, yet also a consummate gentlemen, a combination almost impossible to replicate these days.”

He was married to Eva Pierot for 41 years. She predeceased him, as did their daughter, Irene Bigotte-Steckler, and his brother, Georges. He is survived by his daughters, Annique Bigotte-Link (Tom) and Diane Bigotte Kendall (Jeff); his sisters, Marie Lou Baillon and Anne Marie Simon; and his brother, Francois Bigotte.

Mr. Bigotte’s legacy and “bon vivant” approach to life will live on in his grandchildren, Alexandra and Lindsey Kendall and Sydney and Alexander Link.  

Memorial donations in Mr. Bigotte’s name may be made to the Rye Nature Center 873 Boston Post Road, Rye, NY 10580 (ryenaturecenter.org).