Photo courtesy of Lorne and Sons Funeral Home - Delray Beach
Delray Beach, Florida
Jul 19, 1939 – Aug 10, 2023
Carl A. DeSantis, 84, of Delray Beach passed away on August 10, 2023. He is survived by his children, Deborah (Mark) Colbert, Dean (Laura), and Damon (Cynthia), the mother of his children, Sylvia DeSantis, his six grandchildren, Kyle (Adaliz), Cameron (Kelli), Katelyn Rowan-Miller (Campbell), Katie, Conor (Karissa), and Carson (Matt) Glasheen, his seven great-grandchildren, his sister, Dorothy (Joseph) Greene, nephew Brett, and nieces Shari (Bryant) Pasley, and Audrey.
Born in Boston and raised in south Florida, Carl attended college at FSU in Tallahassee and returned to Miami where he began his career managing retail drug stores before becoming an enthusiastic and optimistic entrepreneur at a young age. He had a strong work ethic and boundless energy, starting and nurturing many successful businesses over the years. He was also a generous philanthropist, contributing to many educational, spiritual, and cultural organizations and institutions.
Carl's infectious laughter, warm smile, and genuine interest in others endeared him to everyone he met. He possessed a unique ability to inspire and motivate those around him, empowering them to reach their full potential. Carl's wisdom, guidance, and mentorship touched the lives of countless individuals, leaving an indelible mark on their personal and professional journeys.
We celebrate the remarkable life he lived and the profound impact he had on those fortunate enough to know him.
Friends may call on Monday, August 21, 2023, from 4PM to 7PM at Lorne & Sons Funeral Home, 745 N.E. 6th Avenue, Delray Beach. A funeral mass will be celebrated at Ascension Catholic Church, 7250 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at 11AM. Entombment will follow at Our Lady Queen of Peace Mausoleum, Royal Palm Beach.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Read MoreOh Carl, you were a powerful force on this earth. Always popping into my life unexpectedly . Your financial advice was spot on. More than anything you taught me to just be yourself, billionaire or not. I will carry your passion with me forever. XOXO- Joanne Kilmartin
Joanne kilmartin
January 25, 2025 | Friend
So saddened to just be reading such a great loss. Carl was one of the best men I knew. I was so blessed to work for Rexall Sundown the best company ever. Loved hearing the stories how Carl started the business in his garage. He was kind and giving to all the employees. You loved going to work. I was just looking at my picture today when I won a trip to Disney. I made a quilt and had employees sign for my sweet Mgr Jeanne Devore. I made REXALL SUNDOWN GANG. We were all family and over...
NANCY S Dolson
September 26, 2024 | Vero Beach, FL | Coworker
Sad to hear of Carls' passing. He was the most generous soul with the big kid heart. Never forgot his roots and was always a pleasure to be around. My ladies softball team would never have been able to go to our tournament in New Orleans in 2018 if it were not for his contribution. Always had a smile on his face and willingness to make everyone around him at ease.
Rest easy my friend.
XOXO
Jennifer
Jennifer Klein
November 03, 2023 | Greenacres, FL | Acquaintance
Will never forget my dear brother. Will love him forever, Dorothy Greene and family
Dorithy Greene
October 12, 2023 | Thousand Oaks, CA | Family
Love you and miss so much!!! XXXOOO
Brett Greene
September 07, 2023 | CA | Family
I first met Carl when I worked for him when he took over Erny's back in the 90's, I hit it off with him right from the minute we met. I am a very sad person reading of his passing. All I can say if anyone ever was going to get a FIRST CLASS TICKET to HEAVEN to be with the BIG GUY is this BEAUTIFUL man Carl D. RIP Carl
Brian Flynn
September 03, 2023 | Delray Beach, FL | Friend
MR. DeSantis, I will always be grateful for your kindness, generosity and support. It was an honor to plan your 60th birthday surprise celebration and other events for you and your wonderful family. My prayers are with the family and friends left behind. Your laughter, and the twinkle in your eyes will always be remembered. The knowledge, hard work and ethics you shared will carry on. You. Will. Be missed.
Lynnette Barton
September 03, 2023 | Canton, GA
Learning of Carl's passing is so sad! He was a lover of life, family, God, people and of learning. He was funny and compassionate for those less fortunate. There are so many words to describe what a special and unique man that he was but I will keep it simple by saying he was one of a kind, accomplished more than most and will be very missed! He is with our Lord in Heaven now dancing with the Angels! RIP
Cristina Hunnewell
September 03, 2023 | Raleigh, NC | Friend
My thoughts and prayers are with the DeSantis family during this difficult time. May you find strength and comfort through cherished memories. With sympathy, Angela Manfredi
Angela Manfredi
August 23, 2023 | Other