Dr. Marta I. Rendon

Dr. Marta Ines Rendon joined God’s glorious kingdom alongside her father, Jesus Uriel Rendon, mother, Rosa Luisa Melendro, and brother, Alejandro Jose Gregorio Rendon, on March 24th, 2021, in Boca Raton, Florida. Marta Rendon was a caring mother, loving spouse, and a world renowned Dermatologist who advanced medical knowledge as an educator, global lecturer, and pioneering researcher. She fought courageously with pancreatic cancer for the past 4 years with the support of her family, while making the most of every moment by continuing her travels, philanthropy, and mentorship.

Marta was born in Medellin, Colombia to Jesus Uriel and Rosa, as their only daughter and second of four children. From a young age, she enjoyed poetry and science and was a dedicated student with a true passion for learning, growing, and what would eventually become, teaching. While she was born in Medellin, she spent her formative years in Mayauez, Puerto Rico, where she started shining from an early age. She was a trailblazer; overcoming obstacles to be a foremost leader in a male-dominated field, while always being authentic, caring, and true to herself. Marta led with compassion -- she knew what she wanted, always put the hard work in, and never let anything stand in her way.

Marta’s accomplishments are amazing for one person; in medicine, Marta was President of Women’s Dermatologic Society, President and Founder of American Society of Aesthetics Dermatology & Surgery, President of the Skin of Color Society, member of the Belizean Grove, as well as a key opinion leader for many pharmaceutical companies. Marta began practicing dermatology in South Florida at the Cleveland Clinic. While at the clinic, she rose to become the Chairman of Dermatology and Member of the Board of Governors, before leaving to open her own private practice in Boca Raton. What started out as a small practice, “The Rendon Center'' grew to become the premier practice in town with additional physicians, over 50 employees, and a dedicated full-time research department.

As much as she loved her rewarding career in dermatology, she prioritized enjoying the gifts and joys of life, spending time with her dear family and friends, and making beautiful memories while exploring the world. From Como to Cannes, Marta treasured experiencing new cultures, seeing new and beautiful places, and always remembered to pick up a Starbucks mug for her collection along the way.

Marta had a huge heart for community service and was a benefactor for many of the local charities in her community including the Junior League, Soroptomist, Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation, Boca Helping Hands, Marine Education Initiative, and the Spirit of Giving. One of her greatest pleasures was in mentorship -- she took deep interest in empathetically guiding young people and empowering them to grow in their careers. She was a champion for young leaders in dermatology. Marta’s life exemplified one that was wholeheartedly well-lived and well-loved.

While she achieved tremendous success in her career, her greatest accomplishment is her incredible love for people and zest for life. Her only son Juan, a reflection of her best qualities, has always been the focus and love of her life. Marta’s life partner, Dr. Bret Ribotsky, her biggest advocate and supporter, and his two children, Robyn and Ben, rounded out the family for the last 17 years.

She was a selfless, dedicated mother and partner who was present for every moment, big and small. Even with her demanding career, she never missed a game, play, or event in Juan’s life, or the little things like dropping him off at school every day. She took great pride in raising him and raising those around him -- always opening her home and heart to Juan’s close family and friends, becoming a second mom to many.

Marta epitomized the phrase “to know her is to love her” -- those who knew her would often talk about her infectious smile, generous heart, and how her presence would light up a room. She was filled with vision, verve, and compassion. She uplifted and encouraged others with her warmth, positivity, indomitable inner strength, integrity, and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. She was a force of nature…known for her brilliant mind, vivacious enthusiasm, vibrant personality, and above all, a profound love of people…most especially, her deeply loved family.

She is survived by her son, Juan, her partner, Bret, his children, Robyn and Ben, her brothers, Jorge Rendon and Uriel Rendon, her nieces and nephews, Jorge Rendon, Michelle Rendon, Julian Rendon, Nick Rendon, Uri Rendon, Brett Rendon, and Lana Rendon.

If you’d like to support the fight to beat pancreatic cancer, please consider donating in Marta’s name at letswinpc.org/donate.