Erdal Dere Obituary, Cause of Death – New York Art Dealer Remembered at 56
NEW YORK, New York — Erdal Dere, the art dealer associated with Manhattan-based Fortuna Fine Arts Ltd., died on October 13, 2026, at the age of 56, according to his published obituary from Feeney Funeral Home.
Dere is being remembered by his family and friends as a kind and generous man whose warmth and personal relationships left a lasting impression on those around him. His wife, Erin, and their children, Lilly and Patrick, were central to his life. The family obituary also recalls his affection for their dog, Peanut.
His passing has brought sadness to those who knew him personally and professionally, as loved ones reflect on the memories they shared and the relationships he cherished.
Remembering Erdal Dere
According to his published obituary, Dere is survived by his wife, Erin, and their children, Lilly and Patrick. His surviving relatives also include his parents, Selim and Aysel Dere, and his sister, Semra, along with extended family members, nieces, nephews, and friends.
The family’s tribute emphasizes his kindness, generosity, and devotion to those closest to him. Beyond professional accomplishments, it is these personal qualities and family connections that remain central to the remembrance of his life.
Messages of condolence and tributes have also appeared on his online memorial, reflecting the sadness surrounding his passing.
Career in the Art and Antiquities Market
Dere was known professionally for his association with Fortuna Fine Arts Ltd., a Manhattan business dealing in antiquities and historical art. His work connected him with New York’s specialized art and antiquities market.
His professional history also received public attention in connection with federal allegations announced in 2020 concerning antiquities and provenance documentation. Those allegations are separate from the announcement of his death and should be understood in their appropriate legal context rather than treated as an explanation for his passing.
Erdal Dere Cause of Death
Erdal Dere died on October 13, 2026, at age 56, according to his published obituary. The cause of death was not specified in the information provided for this article.
No explanation for his death should be assumed without a reliable statement from his family or another authoritative source.
Funeral and Memorial Arrangements
According to Feeney Funeral Home, visitation is scheduled for Friday, October 16, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the funeral home in Ridgewood, New Jersey.
A Funeral Mass is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, at noon at St. Mark’s Syriac Orthodox Cathedral in Paramus, New Jersey. Interment is to follow at George Washington Memorial Park in Paramus.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations in Erdal’s memory to Convent of the Sacred Heart or Saint David’s School.
These arrangements provide family members, friends, and others who knew Dere with an opportunity to pay their respects and honor his memory.
A Lasting Family Legacy
Erdal Dere will be remembered by his wife, children, parents, sister, extended family, and friends for the relationships he built and the generosity described in his family’s tribute.
His published obituary offers a personal remembrance of a husband, father, son, brother, and friend whose life extended beyond his professional work. As loved ones gather to honor him, the memories they carry forward will remain an important part of his legacy.
May Erdal Dere rest in peace, and may his family and friends find comfort and strength in the days ahead.
Disclaimer: This article draws on the details provided from Erdal Dere’s published obituary and funeral arrangements. His cause of death was not specified in the supplied information.