Michael Patrick Derner

Michael Patrick Derner passed away peacefully on March 17. He was the loving son of Jane and James Dubuque; brother of Thomas Derner; nephew of Betty Dubuque; cousin of Jeff Dubuque; beloved uncle of the deceased Tommy and Danielle Derner. Michael was born with Down syndrome. He was a Special Gift who brought joy to all. Early suggestions that Michael be institutionalized were declined and ignored. Michael was the first special needs student mainstreamed in SFUSD. After considerable reluctance on the part of the Superintendent, the head teacher of Argonne preschool accepted Michael on a probationary basis. He thrived, and she loved having him. She kindly walked him to and from the school bus each day. He later attended Louise Lombard and A.P. Giannnini. He independently navigated his extensive world on Muni. From 1968 to the present Michael went to the Janet Pomeroy Center where he relished social activities with his many, many dear friends. He participated in Special Olympics, Theater Unlimited, community recycling, and the Food Bank Program.

He studied Work Life Skills at SFSU and went on to work at Esther’s and Wendy’s. During the pandemic he officially retired after 30 years of service at Goodwill on Clement Street. Michael had a great work ethic! He was a punctual, reliable employee whose only sick days were when he was hospitalized. In 1998 Michael received his first communion and confirmation. Until recently he was an altar server at the 4:30 Saturday Mass at St. John the Evangelist Church. He was proud, pious, devout, and thrilled to ring the bells in the Eucharistic celebration.

Michael loved parties and festivities. He loved to get dressed up in a suit, and dance with all the ladies in the styles of John Travolta and Michael Jackson.

Michael’s mother is beyond grateful to his Godparents, Janeanne and the late Terrance Sullivan, for lovingly embracing Michael and enfolding him into the fabric of their nurturing family. The family appreciates wonderful medical care Michael has received since 1968 from Dr. Robert Popper, J. Klompus, and A. Rosenblatt. Special thanks to CPMC ICU nurses, especially Matt and Isha. Our Sweet Boy, We will love you forever.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Janet Pomeroy Center, CPMC Pediatric Cardiology, or CPMC Neonatal ICU.

Visitation is Monday, March 28 at Duggan’s Serra Mortuary at 4pm, with a Rosary at 6pm. A Funeral Mass is Tuesday, March 29 at 10am at St. John the Evangelist Church at 19 St. Mary’s Avenue in San Francisco. Internment to follow at Holy Cross.