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Elliot Bernstein Obituary
Steven
Mar. 2, 1950 - Nov. 26, 2015
Elliot Steven Bernstein passed on suddenly at his home in Sarasota, Florida on November 26, 2015.
Elliot is survived by his wife, Maureen Bernstein; children, Emily Bernstein & son-in-law Noam Paransky and Annie Bernstein & son-in-law Greg Metzger, all living in Sarasota; mother, Sarah (Sunny) Bernstein of Siesta Key; three brothers, Jerry, Harvey and Joel; loving in-laws; nieces; nephews; and many dear friends. He is preceded in death by his father, Emanuel Bernstein. Elliot loved and enjoyed his family very much. He recently had the joy of seeing his family grow and thrived on being a grandparent to Aiden, Riley and Mila.
Elliot was born March 2, 1950 in Brooklyn, NY and was raised in Massapequa, NY. He went to college in Boston and that is where he met his partner for life, Maureen. After college they moved to rural Western, Massachusetts and started a family. Elliot was a self-proclaimed hippie in his youth and remained true to his idealistic views throughout his life. He was full of entrepreneurial spirit and was an avid picker, antiques dealer and auctioneer. Elliot loved the collector's lifestyle and you could often find him set-up at the markets in New York City.
In 2003, Elliot and Maureen relocated to Sarasota to enjoy all that Florida had to offer. From the white sands of Siesta Key Beach to the many golf courses he played; he thought Sarasota was a wonderful place to live. He also pursued his passion for antiques and auctions in Sarasota, opening an Auction Gallery that served many loyal clients for over 10 years. As an experienced auctioneer, Elliot provided certain wisdom on the merchandise he was selling as well as an entertaining banter that his audience would enjoy at his well-curated auctions every other Sunday for many years. He believed auctions were a liberal-minded way to recycle goods. Elliot faced many physical challenges over the past few years, but remained active with his business until this past year.
Elliot was an avid athlete and loved sports. He was passionate about golf and enjoyed swimming. Elliot had a magnetic personality and was loved by so many. Throughout his illness, he remained unshakably positive and optimistic. Elliot believed in the power of the intellect and said as long as he had his mind, he was free. While Elliot faced a very difficult disease over the past few years, he never let ALS define him. He inspired many people with his enduring generosity of spirit and his indomitable love for life.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like to request that all donations be made to Answer ALS (www.answerals.org) or Project ALS (www.projectals.org), both research organizations working to find a cure for ALS.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Elliot Bernstein
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Rob Denton
November 26, 2021
Just seeing this reminder of his passing has me in tears, again. Outside of my family no friend's passing has had more effect on me like this. But today I also have a funny memory. We were playing golf with Jim R. in New Hampshire. Jim shanked a tee shot badly into the woods. Elliot cracked up laughing, uncontrollably, for a minute. I'll never forget that laughter. OK, the tears are coming back now. I so miss him.
Cindy St.Andrews
November 28, 2020
I think of you often and miss you.
Rob Denton
November 27, 2020
I cannot believe it has been five years. I still miss Elliot and think of him so frequently. I especially regret getting to Sarasota one last time to give him the Masters golf hat I bought at the tournament for him. His friendship with my son, Lakota, was a joy for me. I'll always love you, Elliot.
Rob Denton
Pete Johnson
November 26, 2020
Elliot and I go way back to the good ole days. 1970's Mass., antiques, Ryther Barn Auctions in Bernarston, Ma. Golf, Bball conversations. Florida - 2005 Ran into Elliot at 49er Flea Mkt. Elliot was the last vendor off the field, and I was one of the last pickers.
A chance meeting after many years. We kept in touch through his Auction years. He was a good friend. Sure glad I went to see him before he passed. Had a great conversation with Elliot that day. I still miss his friendship. Best to the Family on this Thanksgiving Day.
R. I. P. Elliot
Patricia Johnson
December 16, 2015
Thinking of you at this most difficult time.. You know I share your pain on all levels..
God bless you and your family at this most difficult time!
Rob Denton
December 13, 2015
Elliot was what I call an "original" person as there could be no duplication.
I played tennis and basketball with El but mostly it was golf in Massachusetts. He was so much fun on the course - many stories there. Last golf outing together was in Florida and an alligator crawled up near us. I purchased a hat at The Masters golf tournament this year for Elliot and had intended to travel and present it to him but, regrettably, the trip never happened.
Elliot's kids and my kids were friends growing up and he and Maureen helped me through some marriage difficulties.
I miss Elliot terribly.
Peter Johnson
December 7, 2015
Where do I begin? I knew Elliot for 40 years. First met him in Bernardston, Mass. It was at a small auction barn (The Ryther House)With auctioneer Mark Polland. We ran into each other at most all auction houses in Mass., N.H., and Vermont. We were in many of the same group shops in N.H., and Vermont. Fate brought us together on a late Sunday afternoon many years later in St Pete. FL. Elliot the last dealer - as usual departing the 49er flea market, and me headed to my van. Elliot says "Pete Johnson" I replied "Elliot" - We both left New England for the sunshine! I was glad to help him when he first started his auction business in Osprey, Fl. I consigned many items with Elliot over the years.
Many probably do not know that Elliot was a very good Basketball Player ( Once played against Dr J Erving in his high school days.) I loved talking sports with him! El was always on top of all the sport actions.
Glad I visited with him about six weeks ago. Great conversation! We both shed some tears as I said good bye. You are finally at rest! I Loved you buddy. I will miss you!
Best to all the family, and friends!
"Pistol" Pete Johnson
Sally Connelley
December 4, 2015
I met Elliot ten years ago when I first found his auction house. After that I never missed a Sunday. I will miss our talks about the antique business. My condolences to the Bernstein family
Sally Connelley
December 4, 2015
I first met Elliot ten years ago when I first found his auction house. After that I never missed a Sunday. I will miss our talks about about the antique business. My condolences to the Bernstein family . He will be missed.
Arlene Clark
December 4, 2015
Elliot was such a nice, easy going man. It was a pleasure knowing him.
Kim Short
December 4, 2015
What an inspiration Elliot was to all who knew him.Through all he went through the last few years he always kept a positive attitude and his sense of humor.I will always fondly remember our drives to the gallery on auction weekends. We talked about movies, restaurants, the antique business of course and life in general.I met many great people through El and he taught me alot about " the biz". Rest in Peace Boss !!! My sympathy to Maureen and the kids.
John Slocum
December 3, 2015
This wonderful man was not only a friend but a mentor to me. I enjoyed his trust and incredible knowledge. He will be sorely missed.
Drew Strouble
December 3, 2015
Elliot, you will be truly missed by those that had the pleasure of meeting and working with you through the years... I met Elliot 12 or so years ago while we were both picking at a Goodwill thrift store. We hit it off right away because of our shared interest in antiques and collectibles and selling on eBay at the time. We became good friends through that connection. I enjoyed buying and selling though his wonderful auction company. Although we hadn't seen each other much the last couple of years, he remained in my thoughts and prayers. He came over to visit me several months ago and we both enjoyed catching up. I'll miss you big guy! My heart and prayers go out to all his family and friends.
Dawn Valenti
December 3, 2015
I so admired Elliot for his determination and entrepreneurship. His friendship and kindness will not be forgotten. My condolences to his family
Heather Hamilton
December 3, 2015
May you rest in peace my friend. You will be missed.
Mark Peer
December 3, 2015
When I last saw Elliot a few weeks age he still had that smile and good humor that we all loved him for. Maureen, Emily, Anne and Harvey: my heart goes out to you. I feel lucky to have spent time with you all and of course Elliot who brought us together.
I first met Elliot as a fellow dealer in the antiques business and he proved to be much more than that. He is one of those rare people who was able to put aside business and be a true friend. I'll miss the buddy who was so easy to share a laugh with. Thanks for taking the time for sharing your life with me Elliot. My sympathies to the rest of the family are hope you all are comforted by the fact Elliot was a very good man. RIP my friend.
Lisa Donahue
December 3, 2015
Thoughts and prayers to the family.
Skip Donahue
December 3, 2015
Our thoughts are with the family at this time. What a true inspiration he was to keep going through what had to be such a difficult illness. We're here for you all if we can help. Love to you all...Skip and Lisa Donahue
December 2, 2015
Elliot was always a positive force in this world...I never saw him angry or down. I will miss our banter very much. I hope there are plenty of antiques up in Heaven, and very plush golf courses! Miss you big guy
Alan Amero
Tabitha Robbins
December 2, 2015
Miss you El. My days are a little less bright without your smile and wit. Enjoy "working the room" up there.
Michael Ellison
December 2, 2015
So long, old friend. You gave us all an important lesson in optimism. My sympathies to your family.
Chris Sanders
December 2, 2015
My Elliot
As I climb the ladder of life,rug by rug, may you stay forever young .... Taking care of u was my pride in life ! I will keep climbing and never stop !! My heart is so broken but every day I will carry you with me as I no you will shine down on me with all my love
Mark Carney
December 2, 2015
Maureen, my condolences to you. Please know that my thoughts and prayer are for you and your family at this time of morning. Mark Carney
Cindy St.Andrews
December 2, 2015
Fondly remembering all the good times we've had over the years. My heart goes out to Elliot's family and dear friends. Know that he was deeply loved, not soon to be forgotten.
Betsy Hutchins
December 2, 2015
Even though I haven't seen Elliott since he moved south he remains vivid in my mind because he was such a character and he was always busy busy busy. He knew more than most of us in the antiques business and he was happy to impart his wisdom.
I'm so sorry to hear of his passing I had hoped to see him again. Wherever he is I know he's joking around and making everybody laugh. Happy trails EL
Michael Mullen
December 2, 2015
We will miss you always darling Ellott
Donna Terzian
December 2, 2015
I have known El for many many years first up north and then here in Sarasota, not only as a business colleague but as a good friend. His ability to bring the antiques community together at his auctions is an everlasting tribute to his keen wit and sharp intellect, his eye for what would appeal to his audience, and his sense of comradery, which came from his obvious devotion, pride and love of his family. In fact attending his auctions was always like visiting family, and his creation of that world, with him at the podium, will be missed.Though diminished in body by ALS, as was written so well, he never let that define him or stop him.
My deeply heartfelt condolences to the Bernstein family.
Kristin Joyce-Guy
December 2, 2015
Elliot became a family friend over the years through our original connection to his auction business here in Sarasota.
We will always remember his cheery disposition, his spirit of generosity and his earnest help when we needed it most as we "right-sized" our living circumstances. We were introduced to his Annie, who became a dear person in my life as a business colleague and important new friend. We love knowing her mother, Maureen and meeting other family members. Importantly, we stood in awe of their bravery and unceasing dedication to completely "be there" for this lovely man as he battled ALS.
We will miss him tremendously.
In his honor, we will contribute to supporting vital research for an eventual cure to ALS. Rest in peace, Elliot. We all loved you.
December 2, 2015
Elliot was a Happy and motivated person. we loved his stories and passion for life. We truly enjoyed having him visit our office. He will be missed. Dr. Joseph Sassano and the entire staff of the Sarasota Immediate Care.
Nancy Krohngold
December 2, 2015
Elliot introduced himself to me in 2008, when he came by my lunchtime roadside BBQ stand at 13th St. and East Ave. one weekday and asked me to set up to sell BBQ outside his Auction Gallery. (I smile now, recalling how he urged me to make and offer smoked turkey, even though it wasn't on my menu.I convinced him folks would settle for my chicken.) For the next 2+ years I was outside his entrance every other Sunday, and Elliot -- and Maureen -- became more than just business colleagues to me. So many of us loved him. He was always kind and fair with me ... and had a special fondness for my Pineapple-Rum Upside Down Cake.
It was evident how he loved his family and was so proud of his daughters. Maureen, Emily and Annie, I know Elliot fought the good fight with the disease that ravaged him, and I hope you find some solace that he is now free of that struggle.
The world -- and the antiques and auction community in particular -- will not be the same without him.
Heartfelt condolences.
Jessica Dirkes
December 2, 2015
Thank you Elliott for our friendship over these many years. Jessica Dirkes
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