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Dominique Camilli of New York City and Westhampton died May 13, 2018, of cancer. He was 77.
Born in the south of France to a “famille de parfumeurs Grasse,” Mr. Camilli traveled the world. As a renowned “le nez,” he created beautiful scents for the fragrance industry including the iconic “Charlie” for Revlon, “Solliden” for the King of Sweden, and “Orloff” for his favorite Greek island, Hydra.
He grew up in Grasse, and lived in Paris, Corsica, and New York City. His Corsican heritage and “joie de vivre” brought life’s richness and beauty to his friends and family. He would always “stop to smell the flowers,” loving “le maquis” that covers the Corsican landscape. Lily of the valley, mimosa, tuberose and lavender fields were among his favorites.
Mr. Camilli was an exceptional cook who shopped the Westhampton Beach Farmers Market weekly and created his own recipes for dinners at home, under the pergola, with friends and family. He became close with many chefs, wherever he and his wife would travel. He loved to talk about food and wine and was a true epicurean. He had a passion for flowers, gardens, travel, sun, rosé wine and beaches.
It is no surprise that he met his wife, Patti, 30 years ago on a beach in Jumby Bay, Antigua, or that they married in Barbados, or that they shared so many joyous years together in Westhampton.
Mr. Camilli, said survivors, was a true “bon vivant,” remembered by all for his love of life, his elegance, and his stunning white hair.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia Camilli; his children, Francois (Anne), Isabelle Camilli Ichikawa (Takashi), Tura and Andre; his stepdaughter, Blake Bueckman (Daniel); and his grandchildren, Keisuke and Hector Ichikawa, Antoine and Marie Camilli, and Jacob and Dylan Bueckman, who affectionately named him “CouCou.”
Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. A memorial service will take place this summer in Westhampton.
on May 18, 2018