Lester M Bernstein

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Les Bernstein. The time that you shared with him before his passing was of great value for him and for his family.

From an early age, it was apparent how special Les was, He expressed his independence through his imaginative and creative ideas. These qualities provided him with his dynamic spirit, strength and courage in areas where “angels feared to tread”.

Les, without judgment, showed compassion to those in need.

Les moved to Florida from Long Island, NY with his partner, Terri 10 years ago after his father Joe died and to be closer to his mother, Lynn. It was on West Dearborn street that many of Les’ happiest times and memories were made.

Never a follower, Les was physically and mentally resilient. He was able to construct and deconstruct literal and figurative projects. Les was an active community advocate in Old Englewood Village Association, Pioneer Days Parade, ERA, Arts Alliance of Lemon Bay, etc. This involved often starting from scratch developing programs, joining groups, negotiating changes, swallowing pride.

Les liked to work on his classic cars. We also saw Les in parades with his golf cart decorated for the occasion checking security, sound, vendors as he rode down the street waving to all. He made many contacts.

Later his partner’s health failed and the doors of Rehab on Dearborn closed and Les stayed with Terri in a NY hospital until she died 8 months ago. Shortly after Terri’s passing, Les too was diagnosed with cancer. Once again his strength and resilience took over and became his mantra. He fearlessly faced chemo with a positive attitude and was determined to be the 1% that would beat pancreatic cancer. He never gave up.

Our family appreciates the efforts of his friend, Laurie, who left NY to come to Florida to care for Les. She was monumental in keeping him well during his fight and helped him through some of his darkest days. His cousin, Susan also came from CA to assist.

On August 6th, Les died peacefully surrounded by his family.

He was a caring father to Rachel and Allison, grandfather to Gabrielle, Zachary, Hunter, Charley and Stella, uncle to Jillian and Jake, loving son to his mother, Lynn and late father Joe, brother to Steven, devoted husband to his late wife, Harriet.

Les leaves behind a legacy of achievement and love. His family grieves, his friends grieve and his be a blessing. Community grieves for loss of Les Bernstein. He will forever be missed. May his memory continue to be a blessing.