Dr. Dermot Joseph Ornelles' Obituary
Dermot Joseph Ornelles, DDS, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, August 5, 2024. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii (Waikiki) to Adam and Mary Ornelles, he was one of six children and a twin. Dermot, a proud alumnus, graduated from St. Louis School in 1946, the University of Hawaii in 1950, and the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in 1954. He practiced dentistry in Honolulu for over 50 years, where he shared his gifts of storytelling and humor with his patients, many of whom became good friends.
Dermot appreciated art and music. He was a loyal patron of the Hawaii Opera Theatre. He played trombone in high school and college, in a jazz band, and with the Honolulu Symphony. Dermot had a love and talent for baseball. A member of the ILH Championship Team at St. Louis School in 1945 and 1946, he played throughout high school, in college, and for the Braves of Hawaii Baseball League. Playing against Joe DiMaggio in exhibition games in Honolulu was one of his fondest memories. He was recruited in 1950 by Kansas City as a first baseman, but chose to attend dental school and join the Army. In 1956, while serving as a Captain at Ford Ord, California, he married Caroline Lee. They were blessed with four wonderful children. Caroline passed away in 1981.
On a date arranged by Caroline's best friend, Dermot met Eileen Kelleher. They were married in 2006, retired in 2009, and enjoyed 18 years of marriage.
As an avid golfer, he continued until he was scoring below his age, golfing with friends from three different clubs. He enjoyed fishing, skiing, running/walking, completing three Honolulu Marathons with Eileen, and loved sports especially when there was a St. Louis graduate on the team.
Dermot is survived by his loving wife, Eileen Kelleher-Ornelles; sons, David A. Ornelles (Roanne), John D. Ornelles, Robert L. Ornelles (Cecily); daughter, Susan K. Ornelles Haruki (Todd); stepdaughter, Susan Kelleher Holtz (Doug); grandchildren, Anne, Adam (Hannah), Marcus, Matthew, Jack, and Jacob Ornelles, Brandon and Caroline Haruki; and sisters, Eloise Wilson and Brenda Waters. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Caroline Lee Ornelles; daughter-in-law, Adele L. Brown Ornelles; stepdaughter, Stacy J. Kelleher; and brothers, Emory, Axel, and Gordon Ornelles.
All services will be held on August 28th, 2024, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 5919 Kalanianaole Highway, Honolulu HI, 96821. Visitation will start at 9:00 AM, followed by a service at 10:00 AM, and a Funeral Mass at 10:15 AM. Lunch and refreshments will be provided on the Lanai from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Private burial services to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Holy Trinity Catholic Church, or your favorite charity.
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