Michael Jay Dermer

In loving memory of Michael Dermer, August 19, 1979 to July 4, 2018.

“A son and a husband are part of your life, your world, your heart – always.”

Michael Jay Dermer went to be with the Lord on July 4, 2018, at home in Reno, Nevada, after a nine-year battle with a brain tumor. He was an amazing man throughout his long and difficult years of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and rehabilitation. Michael was born to Harry and Charlene Dermer in Helena, Montana, on August 19, 1979. The Dermers moved to Palmer in 1984 where he attended Butte Elementary. He graduated from Colony High School in 1998 and continued his education at the University of Nevada, Reno. Michael married Sarah Ellis of Anchorage in 2005. They lived in Reno where Michael worked in sales at Craftsman Homes. Sarah teaches at Pine Middle School. Michael loved Alaska/Nevada outdoor activities and sports. He played football and soccer at Colony High School. He was a member of the Alaska State High School Racquetball team representing Alaska at the National High School Racquetball Tournament. He continued to play racquetball for UNR. Michael would never turn down a fishing trip, an opportunity to snowboard or play racquetball. Michael is survived by his strong and faithful wife Sarah (Ellis) Dermer and dog Bailey; parents Harry and Charlene Dermer; brother Nathan (Crystal) Dermer; nieces; Lea, Jillian, Elora and Willow; in laws Cliff (Sharon) Ellis; brother in law; Eric Ellis, and a large extended family. An Alaska celebration of life will be held August 4, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Palmer Highway Church of God, 349 E. Arctic Ave, Palmer, Alaska. Refreshments will be served. Memorial gifts can be sent to Sarah Dermer, 495 Len Circle, Reno, Nevada 89511 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The Dermer team would like to thank everyone for your support and love during Michael’s years of treatment.