Obituary of Geoffrey David Batrouney

Geoffrey David Batrouney passed away unexpectedly on June 24, 2024 in New Rochelle, New York. He was 70 years old.

Geoff had that special something, the kind of person that everyone wanted to be with, and no one could forget. He was endearing, interesting and had a lovely Australian charm that captivated others. He was the social magnet in the room, warm, witty and brilliant, and had the ability to talk to anyone about almost anything.

Geoffrey David Batrouney was born in Melbourne, Australia in 1954 to David Batrouney and Elizabeth Gilchrist Batrouney, the third of three children. His father passed away when Geoff was only six years old. His mother remarried and moved the growing family to other parts of Australia. Geoff always remained close to his father’s Lebanese family and roots, and cherished the culture and foods of his heritage. As a young adult he returned to Melbourne to complete his studies at Trinity College.

Geoff spent his adult life in America and fast tracked his degree in Political Science at the University of Wisconsin- LaCrosse in 1978. His first job laid the path to an early career in politics as a researcher for the Republican Party of Wisconsin. He was recognized immediately for his talent and charisma, and was asked to introduce the Governor of Wisconsin at the Republican Convention, even though he was not allowed to remain at the convention due to his citizenship status.

Moving to Alexandria, Virginia in 1980, Geoff worked for the Reagan administration as Ronald Reagan transitioned to the White House. Geoff was a passionate and talented staff member and was known for his contributions to speechwriting during the administration. Around that time he joined the Board of Directors of a conservative think tank which was a very influential public policy organization in the US.

After moving back to LaCrosse, Wisconsin in the early 1980’s, he joined the corporate world with a then private company called The Company Store, and his direct marketing talents thrived. His career path included starting his own firm in 1989, followed with the position of Director of Marketing for Coca-Cola merchandising in 1994. After other significant positions in direct marketing and licensed merchandising, he eventually became co-owner of Estee Marketing Group, Inc of Rye Brook, New York in the year 2000, with his wife Christine Ragusa Batrouney.

Geoff had a passion for Australian rules football, all types of sports, and a keen interest in aviation technology and car racing. He loved to barbeque at a serious level, participating in the Atlanta BBQ Fest in 2018 with his son Nicholas’s competitive team. He loved history, reading, fishing, cooking and entertaining. He was a consummate host, and was loved by all for his charm and charisma, as well as his knowledge of topics across all interests, and joie de vivre.

In later years, Geoff traveled as much as he could, visiting countries all over the world with his wife. Exploring different cultures and cuisines, he loved experiencing the beauty and history of the world around him.

He is survived by his wife Christine (Ragusa) Batrouney of New Rochelle, NY, his sons from a previous marriage to Nancy Ablan, David C.G. Batrouney, Nicholas J.G. (Creighton) Batrouney, James G.G. Batrouney of Atlanta, GA, his step son Jesse Ragusa (Karlie) Niland of White Plains, NY. His sister Gillian Shedden, brothers Peter (Carolyn) McLaughlin and Roderick (Maree) McLaughlin all of Australia. He was predeceased by sister Margaret Joy (Douglas) Bowen of Australia. Also surviving him are his four grandchildren Gabriella Batrouney, Simon Batrouney, Sterling Batrouney, and Delphine Niland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either the Union Gospel Mission in Portland, Oregon (ugmportland.org) or The Bowery Mission of New York City. (Bowery.org). Services will take place on Saturday, July 13 th at 11AM at the Salesian Chapel, 148 E Main Street, New Rochelle, NY 10801