Dr. Jacques Ajenstat

Jacques Ajenstat, age 79, beloved father and brother, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2024, with his two sons, Frédéric and François, and his daughter, Laura, by his side. A man of lively intellect and determination, his life was marked by significant transitions that he navigated with a blend of humor, optimism, and a drive to embrace opportunity and succeed.

Born in the shadow of World War II in the former Soviet Union, his family’s return to Poland carried the weight of unmet hopes for a return to normalcy, leading them to France in search of new beginnings. There, he adapted to French life so seamlessly that no one would have guessed it wasn't his first language. It was this time that instilled a confidence and courage to seek out life’s possibilities, regardless of language or borders.

A professor in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) long before it gained mainstream recognition, he reveled in the exploration of new concepts and innovative ideas. He obtained an engineering degree in Physics, a Master's in Computer Science, a Master’s in Business Administration, and a Doctorate in Management Information Systems. He started his professional career in France in 1970 studying automation and robotics optimization principles. In 1972, he and his wife, Françoise, emigrated to Montreal to build their careers and family and by 1978, he had earned a teaching and research position at the University of Quebec at Montreal, eventually becoming a tenured professor. 

Despite his professional accomplishments, he later faced the tragic and untimely passing of his wife, Françoise, a loss that forever changed him but never broke him. He dedicated himself to raising his young sons, and would go on to welcome a daughter thirteen years later. The individual successes of his children are the clearest reflection of his perseverance, love, and support.

He was a man of many interests and abilities, which found their way into each of his children’s lives: Frédéric’s creative mind and love for music, sports, cars, and obscure films; François’ success building and growing multiple thriving companies in the technology sector; and Laura's unshakeable sense of humor, open and non-judgmental spirit, and love of AI. He was also an expert chess player, always in search of a new opponent or willing disciple. Together, he and Laura logged hundreds of hours of chess matches, and in his final years, whether due to her improving skills or his increasing fatigue, she had managed to secure several victories. True to form, he always accepted defeat graciously, eager to analyze his missteps and refine his strategy. 

Above all else, he was endlessly proud of his children, speaking of their accomplishments as if they were his own to anyone who would listen. Outside of the complex data and models that defined his work, his formula for measuring life’s success was surprisingly simple: If his children were happy, then he was content. As we say goodbye, we are filled with both sadness and gratitude, knowing that while he may be gone, he will always be in our hearts.