In loving memory of Yvette Wentziger Bressler, who was born on August 12, 1938, in Paris, France. Born to Simone & Francoise Wentziger, Yvette's early years were woven with the threads of resilience as she navigated the tumultuous landscape of World War II living in Rossfeld, France in the Alsace region.
During those formative years, she embraced both the lyrical cadence of the French language and the rustic charm of Alsatian. Following the war's end, she returned to Paris, where her father who was a chef opened a French restaurant, igniting her passion for good food and hospitality.
In a transatlantic journey, Yvette, alongside her devoted mother and sisters, embarked on a transformative voyage from Le Havre, France, to New York City via ship. It was January 25, 1951, when they arrived, Yvette, then a poised 12-year-old, embarking on a new chapter of her life.
Settling in Boston, she embraced the challenge of a new language, mastering English within a year. She worked as an au pair to wealthy families in the Back Bay neighborhood saving her money to decorate her room. Graduating from Girls High School in 1955, she pursued her passion for design at Mary Brooks College in Boston and later at The New York School for Interior Design, laying the foundation for her career.
She found love amidst the office of Gilchrist Department Store in Boston, where she met her beloved Sidney Bressler. Their union, sealed in matrimony in 1960, was a testament to enduring love and mutual admiration, spanning six decades.
Relocating to Orlando in 1960, Yvette embarked on a lifelong career in the drapery business, co-founding Southland Drapery & Interiors with Sidney. Yvette's impeccable taste and flair for interior decor transformed countless Orlando homes into havens of beauty and sophistication from 1960 to 1992.
Their move to Maitland in 1965 heralded the creation of a custom designed home in Dommerich Estates infused with French allure where new fabrics were introduced on draperies and sofas every 5 years or so for the next five decades.
Her commitment to her family knew no bounds. Kind-hearted, vibrant, and brimming with boundless energy, she juggled her responsibilities with grace. Despite being one of the few working mothers in the neighborhood, she never missed a beat, always there to warmly welcome her children home.
She maintained lifelong friendships with a close-knit circle of dear companions. From elegant lunches at Cordon Bleu to gatherings at her favorite spots, Houston’s and Antonio’s, their camaraderie was unwavering.
Yvette's culinary skills were unparalleled. Every family dinner was an exquisite affair, reminiscent of a scene from the pages of Gourmet Magazine. Her commitment to sourcing the freshest, seasonal ingredients, often through daily shopping excursions to Gooding’s and Publix, ensured each meal was a masterpiece of flavor and presentation.
Yvette was a beacon of warmth and generosity, her joie de vivre infusing every moment with laughter and love. From power walks with her cherished Sony Walkman to the culinary delights of French cuisine, she savored life's simple pleasures with unmatched enthusiasm. She dedicated herself to the art of equestrianism, needlepoint, British humor, avid following of the Royal Family, and indulgence in classic black-and-white cinema, she held a profound affection for both the literary masterpiece and cinematic adaptation of "Gone With The Wind, and even read it in French.
She found her greatest joy in the embrace of her grandchildren, especially her beloved Emma, whose arrival in 2008 brought boundless happiness and cherished memories. Emma and "Mammo," as she was called, were best friends; they adored each other. She was then thrilled to have three boys whom she was able to love and cherish.
As Alzheimer's cast its shadow over her vibrant spirit, Yvette's love remained steadfast, an enduring testament to her indomitable spirit and unwavering grace. Though she may have departed this earthly realm, her legacy of love and laughter lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
Yvette is survived by her devoted and loving daughter, Hillary Bressler; son, Brett (Monica) Bressler; adored grandchildren, Emma and Levi, and Benjamin and Brockton; her dear sister, Francoise Mannix, and large extended family in France. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and one sister.
Funeral Mass will be conducted on Friday, June 7, 2024 at 10am at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, Winter Park, Florida. To join by live streaming: https://stmargaretmary.org/funeral-mass-livestream/
Please Join Us
A Celebration of Life honoring Yvette will commence at 11:15 am at The Bressler Residence at 761 Sequoia Trl Maitland. As a testament to the warmth and hospitality that defined her essence. French food, wine and champagne will be served, alongside cherished memories and shared laughter.
On Sunday June 9th a Shiva will be observed at the residence of Hillary Bressler, offering support from 2-4pm and again from 5-7pm with minyan at 7pm.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Yvette Bressler may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association, a tribute to her enduring spirit and the hope for a future free from the shadows of this devastating disease.
May her spirit soar free, forever remembered in the hearts of those who were touched by her love and grace.
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