Alberto Herszage, the owner of a fine foods import business in Hawaii, died of renal failure on Dec. 6 at home in Springs. He was 81 and had been ill for five years.
Born on Oct. 29, 1938, in Buenos Aires to the former Tania Szapiro and Natalio Herszage, he grew up and attended college there.
After graduating, he began working at an import business that sold art supplies to artists and architects.
In the 1970s, when the Argentine government was in upheaval, he moved to the United States, living first in California then New York before settling in Honolulu, where he launched a business importing chocolate and other foods from Europe.
During a business trip to New York City, he met Barbara Groot, an abstract artist from East Hampton, who would become his partner of more than 20 years.
Ms. Groot, who survives, described his personality as magnetic.
The couple also lived in New York City and shared an appreciation for art, music, wine, food, and travel.He loved to cook on his Argentine grill, discuss classical music, and tell stories about his life. He was also known for wearing wild and colorful socks.
In addition to Ms. Groot, he is survived by a sister, Margaret Herszage of Buenos Aires, and a nephew. A burial ceremony was held at Cedar Lawn Cemetery in East Hampton on Saturday. Memorial donations have been suggested to the charity of one’s choice.
