Melbourn Bernstein

Mel Bernstein, dedicated educator and loving husband and father died peacefully Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at the age of 98. Preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy he leaves 5 children, Jeff Bernstein, and Ellen Bernstein (Blane Deniston), Dana Pulliam (Randy Pulliam), Rachel Bernstein (Daniel Levin), and Susanna May (Don May). Mel has 3 grandchildren, Ian and Aiden May, and Lily Waugh.

Melbourn lived most of his life in Albuquerque, where he moved at seven years old with his parents, Estelle and Joseph, and his sister, Fernie. In 1957, Mel met Dorothy Solemnick on a blind date and his fate was sealed. They were married on Christmas Day, only three months later.

A World War II Veteran, Mel eventually settled on teaching as his profession. He was a dedicated Biology teacher at Manzano High School for over 30 years where he was loved and inspired countless students. He was highly regarded by his colleagues for his dedication to teaching, public education and his union, the Albuquerque Teachers Federation. He inspired three of his own children to work in the education field.

Mel was kind and quiet - something that complimented the energy of his late wife, Dorothy. He was most content in his garden where he grew the vegetables and fruits that Dorothy would preserve for later consumption, or in his workshop where he crafted many beautiful woodworks. To the end he was meticulous and thoughtful - often sitting for hours with a puzzle or with his stamp and coin collection.

Never one to complain, Mel (and Dorothy) lived simple lives- focusing on providing as many opportunities to their children as possible. They made sure all five children received music lessons and were able to engage in numerous other opportunities that fulfilled their interests.

After living on his own in the house that he, Dorothy, and the kids had shared, he finally moved to assisted living at the age of 96. He became well-known and extremely well- liked by staff and residents alike.

We will miss our father, father-in-law, and grandfather but are comforted that he lived a long life the way he wanted. His memory lives on in all of us and we will never forget his inspiration, modesty, and love.

A memorial is scheduled for Friday, April 4, 2025 from 6:00-8:00 pm at FRENCH- Lomas.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mel's name to Explora Science Center and Children's Museum at https://www.explora.us/become-a-member/donate/ or a charity of choice.