Martin Melvin Dernis' Obituary
Martin Melvin Dernis passed away on February 23, 2021, four days after he celebrated his 85th birthday with his family.
Marty was born on February 19, 1936 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to parents Charles and Bertha Dernis. He moved to South Florida at the age of 5 and grew up in Miami Beach. He married Belle Dernis, and they moved to a home in Miami where they raised their children Sondra Pestcoe and Craig Dernis. Many years later, they moved to Weston, Florida to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Marty and Belle were married for 56 years.
In addition to his wife and children, Marty is survived by his sister and brother, Elaine and Robert Baer, his grandchildren Sydney Pestcoe, Zachary Pestcoe, Colby Dernis and London Dernis, his daughter-in-law Veronika Ostroukh, his brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Ann Mendelson, and many nieces and nephews.
Marty graduated college from the University of Florida and then went on to graduate law school from the University of Miami. He practiced law for many years in Miami as a solo practitioner.
He enjoyed traveling the world with his wife, watching movies, playing tennis, chess and poker, snow skiing, playing the piano, and reading the daily newspaper.
Marty will be remembered as a devoted husband, a great father, grandfather, and brother, a loyal friend, and for being a good man.
What’s your fondest memory of Martin?
What’s a lesson you learned from Martin?
Share a story where Martin's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Martin you’ll never forget.
How did Martin make you smile?