Bernard Lacoste ’53

Bernard, who was born in Paris, died there March 21, 2006. He was the son of Rene Lacoste and Simone Thion de la Chaume. He joined us junior year, transferring from Lycee Jeanson in Paris.

Senior year he roomed with lifelong friend Fred de Sibert and was in Cap and Gown Club. After graduation he joined La Chemise Lacoste, a small family company he built into a billion-dollar worldwide enterprise featuring the crocodile trademark that has become a global icon. He was awarded France's highest civilian honor, Officier de la Legion d'Honneur. Despite an extraordinary work schedule, he always welcomed classmates visiting Paris and generously donated the white dress shirts for our 50th reunion.

He is survived by his wife, Sachiko; his wife from an earlier marriage, Claire Lacarriere; their children, Jacques, Camille, and Beryl Hamilton; six grandchildren; his sister, Catherine; and brothers François and Michel.

At Bernard's funeral, David Ogden '89, who lives in Amsterdam, represented '53 for his father, Bill, Bernard's U.S. attorney, who was unable to attend. Heartfelt sympathy is extended to all his family.

The Class of 1953