02/14/2026 - Rocklin, CA USA
Born in Irissarry, France on August 28, 1949, he was preceded in death by his father Jean Noel, his mother Jeanne- Marie, and his brother, Pascal Bidegaray. He was a devoted husband for nearly 50 years to Yvette and was cherished by his 3 children: Jean Michel (Jackie) Bidegaray, Danielle (Maurice) Negueloua and Patrick (Ginger) Bidegaray. He took great pride in his 8 grandchildren: Maguire, Blaine, Jacob, Gisele, Reagan, Hayes, Elene and Jean Luc. He is survived by his brother, Dominique Bidegaray, sister, Marie Jeanne (JM) Lahirigoyen along with two nieces, Marielle (Pascal) Mailharro and Helene, whom all reside in France.
Jean Baptiste (JB) spent his early years in a farmhouse ( Bidartia) in Irissarry, France and migrated to the US at the age of 21. He came to live in San Francisco at the Pyrenees that his aunt and uncle, Amelie & Jean Sorhondo ran and lived there with many other Basques for several years. In San Francisco, he enjoyed playing pala, participating in the Basque Klika and putting on Basque plays. In 1976, he married Yvette Saldubehere and in 1978 they welcomed their son, Jean Michel. Soon after his birth, they moved to Fresno, CA to be closer to grandparents and extended family. In 1980 they had their daughter Danielle and their son, Patrick, followed in 1982. In 1983 they took over the Santa Fe Basque Restaurant where they would stay until 1990. There they enjoyed many wonderful years making lifelong friendships. JB could be found working in the bar or playing a game of mus with many cherished friends.
After leaving the Santa Fe, JB returned to his previous profession as a gardener and worked doing so until his early 70s. He valued a strong work ethic and expected it from his children. Both of his sons worked many years with him as they pursued college degrees.
Jean Baptiste held strongly to his Basque roots and was a member of many Basque clubs throughout California and Nevada. He enjoyed watching his kids and then later, his grandkids, perform at their local Basque Picnics.
As his illness with Alzheimer's progressed, Jean Baptiste spent most of his time at home, with his wife, children and grandchildren. He loved to play cards and was always up for a competitive game of ping pong. He was a humble man with a great sense of humor, completely devoted to his family and his passing leaves a large void for all those that loved him.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to:
Alzheimer's Association – 7461 N. First Fresno, CA 93720
Fresno Basque Club Scholarship Fund- PO Box 406 Fresno, CA 93708
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