Mendelsohn, Robert
PROVIDENCE, R.I.
Robert Mendelsohn passed away on October 7, 2023 with his devoted wife of 40 years, Debbie, by his side.
Bob, along with his siblings Louis, Barbara and Marion, was born in Providence to Alvin and Frances Mendelsohn. He developed early passions for literature (especially Russian literature), philosophy, left-leaning politics and psychology which sustained him throughout his life. Bob earned his undergraduate degree in psychology from Brown University and a PhD in clinical psychology from Florida State University. After graduate school, Bob moved to Brookline, Massachusetts where he established a clinical psychology private practice in both Boston and Providence, and met Debbie. They got married and eventually settled in Providence to start a family. Bob dedicated over 30 years to his private practice, serving as a devoted and trusted therapist for countless patients in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. In addition to his intellectual interests, he found joy in blues music, foreign films, spending time at the beach with his family, and had a deep connection to Judaism.
Bob firmly believed in the value of education and “the life of the mind.” He was deeply invested in and proud of the academic and professional achievements of his children. Alana went on to become a psychiatrist and neuroscientist, while Alan is a litigation attorney at a large law firm in New York City. Most recently, Bob enjoyed spending time with his granddaughter and meeting his new grandson.
He will be fondly remembered and missed by those closest to him for his insightfulness, charisma and sense of humor. His inside jokes and memorable “lines” will be passed down to future generations.
He is survived by Debbie, his son Alan Mendelsohn, his daughter Alana Mendelsohn, her husband Eric Kohlmann and two grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 in the Priest Chapel at Lincoln Park Cemetery, 1469 Post Road, Warwick, RI 02888. A Shiva and Minyan will be held on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at the Mendelsohn residence from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
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Shalom Memorial Chapel
1100 New London Ave
Cranston, RI 02920
(401) 463-7771
(877) 463-7771
Fax: (401) 463-7850
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Thoughts and prayers to the family during this difficult time of sorrow. I have fond memories of Robert in High School. He was an excellent student. I used to bump into him once in a while while walking in the East Side. He was always such a nice person. RIP
Debbie
- we worked together many years ago at Kent County Mental Health. So sorry to read about Bob’s passing. I remember when your children were born, and now read of how successful they are. Your husband must have been very proud of them. Wishing you strength and peace at this sad time.
Dianne Welch
We are truly sorry for your loss. Our condolences to you and your family during this difficult time
Our thoughts are with you.
Yours Naomi and Andre
Dear Debbie, Alana and Alan, it was a privilege to have been able to know Bob. His strong personality and views combined with his intellect, but also kind nature, always searching for fairness and justice, made him a truly special person. I felt close to him as to you all. I am glad that he was able to see his grandchildren at early age, and it seems that he waited for Nathan to be born. I will miss Bob a lot, and wished I could be with you all now. With love, Angelica
Dr. Mendelssohn was an exceptional human being. His sincerity and compassion were without boundaries. May he rest in peace