Paul Dermatis - Obituary

ith broken hearts, we announce the sudden passing of Paul Dermatis, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Paul passed away surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, humility, and quiet strength that touched everyone who knew him. Born in Agioi Apostoloi, Laconia, Greece, Paul was the youngest of six children born to Evangelos and Panagiota Dermatis. He grew up deeply connected to his family and heritage, first in his village and later in Perama. At just 14, Paul left Greece to work on the S.S. Australis — a chapter of his life full of adventure and wonder. He traveled the world, recounting stories of the Canary Islands, Australia, Fiji, and the Panama Canal with a sparkle in his eyes. By 17, he followed his siblings to Baltimore, Maryland, where he would build a beautiful life for the next 55 years. Many knew Paul simply as “The Painter — Paul Dermatis,” a phrase he would proudly begin phone calls with. Painting wasn’t just his job — it was his craft, his pride, and a bridge to countless friendships. He loved what he did, and it showed. Over the years, customers became lifelong friends, and the work he did helped build the lives of others — always with care, precision, and a smile. Paul’s hands were always busy — tending to his garden, fixing something for his family, or learning something new (often with the help of YouTube, much to our amusement). If he could learn it, he could do it. He had a quiet confidence and an old-world humility that drew people in. He loved his coffee gatherings at what we fondly called the “McDonald’s Kafeneio,” sharing long porch conversations, and spending time with his adored grandchildren, Jackson and Colton. Of all the places he traveled, his heart belonged to his village in Greece. He cherished every moment — mornings by the sea, visits with his siblings, and hours on the balcony simply soaking in the peace and breathtaking view. Some of you reading this may have been fortunate enough to be gifted a bottle of olive oil, proudly picked from his land and handed out as a gift for all to enjoy — a simple but generous offering that captured his spirit. Paul is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years, Evangelia, his two children, Alex (Jamie) and Panagiota, and his beloved grandsons, Jackson and Colton. He is also survived by his siblings Yianni (Xrysanthi), Matina, Haralambos, and Mina (Panagiota), along with many cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family in both Greece and the United States. He was preceded in death by his parents and his oldest brother, Paraskevas. Paul will be laid to rest in his village in Greece — exactly where he always wished to return. A celebration of life will be held in Maryland at a later date. His passing has left an unfillable space in our lives. But in our memories, our gardens, our homes, and our hearts — Paul lives on. His love was quiet but deep, steady but unshakable. And for those lucky enough to have known him, his presence will always remain.