Dr. Robert Mendelsohn, 72

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Robert Mendelsohn passed away on Oct. 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 an undergraduate degree in psychology from Brown University and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Florida State University.

After graduate school, Bob moved to Brookline, Massachusetts, 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 and spending time at the beach with his family, and he 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 and her husband, Eric Kohlmann; and two grandchildren.

Contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.