Michael Paul Tessler

Michael was born in Newark, New Jersey on March 25, 1945. He moved to Miami Beach, Florida at the age of 11. He is preceded in death by his parents Samuel and Bertha Tessler. He is survived by his wife, Dottie Meymann Tessler, his brother Dr. Richard Tessler (Pat), nieces, Julie Tessler Bonamo, and Jennifer Tessler Marshall and a dear cousin Naomi Tessler Sloan.

Dr. Tessler practiced for over 41 years at Flagler Hospital and served as Chair of the Department of Surgery; he also served as the Medical Director of Moultrie Nursing Home, as well as servicing other local nursing facilities. He was instrumental in the opening of the Flagler Hospital Murabella Clinic.

Dr. Tessler completed his Bachelor of Science at the University of Miami, 1968 and then pursued a medical career graduating from the University of Miami School of Medicine in 1972. He was Board Certified in the specialty of surgery and was a Diplomate of the American Board of Abdominal Surgery.

Upon finishing medical school Dr. Tessler enlisted in the United States Air Force and achieved the rank of Captain. After leaving military service he fell in love with the city of St. Augustine which ignited his creative spirit and energy and decided to call it “home”. Michael had a passion for photography and took numerous photographs of the “Ancient City” that have now been placed in the Library of the St. Augustine Historical Society.

In addition, he had a love for the arts, especially classical and Latin music and attending Broadway theatre shows. Michael played the guitar and had a penchant for playing “Flamenco” music.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Sea Pines Memorial Gardens in Edgewater, Florida at 12:00 noon.

A separate memorial service will be planned at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the St. Augustine Humane Society.

A sitting Shiva will take place Wednesday, July 9, 2025 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.