Carl Desantis

Carl Desantis, beloved father and husband, passed away Sunday, March 23, 2014 after an extended illness. Carl was born in Rome, NY, on May 15, 1941, son of Rubino and Eleanor DeSantis. Carl married Phyllis Camesano in 1972. True to his creativity and talents, he wrote the music for the ceremony. Carl was an accomplished entertainment attorney and practiced law in New York City for several decades after graduating from the University of Buffalo law school. His clients included such notable names as The Frugal Gourmet, Julia Child, and others within the music and film industries. Carl was also an attorney at Warner Brothers, where he helped pioneer their home video division. He often spoke with fondness about his work and the people he met, many of whom he developed lifelong friendships with. In addition to being an accomplished attorney, Carl co-wrote several film screenplays with his wife, including one that starred the well known Orson Welles. Throughout his life, Carl wrote music and played the piano, two of his greatest passions. Carl loved the company of his family in nature and often bird-watched, swam, and went fishing. He was also a lifelong Yankees fan, which he passed on to both of his children, Laura and Mark. Carl and his family moved to Clarence, NY in 1999. Following his retirement, he and his wife moved to his favorite location, Sarasota, FL, where he lived until his passing. His wit, sense of humor, and generosity to others will be missed greatly. Mr. DeSantis is survived by his wife, Phyllis DeSantis of Sarasota, FL; son, Mark of Washington, D.C.; and daughter and son-in-law, Laura DeSantis and Mithun Chaubey of Philadelphia, PA. A memorial service will be held later this summer.