Bernard ‘Buddy’ Pondick, 61, of Palm Bay, Florida passed away on Wednesday, April 17th, 2024. Buddy was the youngest of two children born to Marvin and Harriet (nee Friedman) Pondick. He was born on May 11th, 1962 in Queens, New York and his family moved to Florida in 1969 when he was only 7 years old. The family settled down in Pembroke Pines, Florida where he spent his childhood growing up.
Buddy followed his father into the car business and eventually owned his own used car lot. After several years in the car business, he worked at McDonalds where he started from the bottom and worked his way to general manager where he won several accolades including outstanding store manager. Eventually, Buddy realized the potential in the video game industry and with only $100 in his pocket, he started his own business buying and selling games and accessories. He was very successful in this business until 2019 when COVID hit.
In 1987, Buddy met his future wife, Patricia ‘Patty” DeNardi on a bowling league they both participated in. Their love of bowling was shared between them throughout their 35 years of marriage. Buddy and Patty married in December of 1988 and had three children together; Michael Allen, Gregory Tyler, and Mallory Danielle. Buddy and Patty’s love for each other was unconditional and a force to reckoned with.
In 2009, the Pondick family moved to South Carolina for better opportunities. In 2014, Buddy was diagnosed with double kidney failure and was placed on dialysis. He lived a full and exciting life even after his diagnosis. After 13 years in SC, Buddy and Patty were empty nesters and decided to move back to Florida in 2023, leaving the kids behind. Buddy retired to a peaceful life with his wife by his side in Palm Bay, Florida until his death.
Buddy had several hobbies he enjoyed and loved to travel. Buddy enjoyed going to Las Vegas and Atlantic City, where he would drink his jack and coke while playing at the roulette table. Buddy’s lucky roulette number was 17. Buddy was a dog lover and Molly, his sheltie, was his soul-dog. Buddy taught his children two sayings; ‘you only live once’ and ‘it’s only money’. Buddy lived his life to these two quotes to the day he died.
Buddy was preceded in death by his parents, his brother in law, Wayne Frena, and his grandparents. He is survived by his wife, children, and sister, Vicki Frena and niece, AJ Frena.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Kidney Foundation at Kidney.org in Buddy’s name.
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