Obituary of Dr. Gerald Chertkow M.D., FRCP

Passed away peacefully at University Hospital in London, Ontario. Born in Chicago in 1927. Beloved husband of Evelyn, devoted father of Joseph, Howard, and Patricia (Levy), wonderful father-in-law of Dr. Ann Aldis and Robert Levy, adoring grandfather of Laura, Elizabeth, and Martha Chertkow (Montreal ), Samuel, Alexander, and Benjamin Levy (Toronto), and Daniel Chertkow (Vancouver), dear brother of Miriam (Gelmon) in Vancouver. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. With lifelong love and commitment to his wife, family and friends, he remained a passionate and exceptional person and doctor. Dr. Gerald Chertkow was one of the outstanding Canadian physicians of his generation. His dedication and professional contribution to patients, colleagues and students throughout a long career was unwavering in helping others. A gold medalist at the University of Saskatchewan, he then graduated with the silver medal from the University of Toronto Medical School (class of 1950). A McLaughlin Fellowship sent him for hematology training in London, England, where he wrote a classic treatise on rare hemolytic anemia. Gerald returned to become the first Chief Resident at (Royal) University Hospital in Saskatoon, where he went on staff in Internal Medicine and Hematology. He spent 55 years practicing Internal Medicine and Hematology, first in Saskatoon and, after 1969, in London Ontario. In London he accepted a position at Victoria Hospital and the Faculty of Medicine at UWO, specializing in the treatment of patients with blood diseases. Over the years, thousands of patients benefited from his expertise, intense attention to detail, and great empathy. Many patients, particularly with leukemia, owed their lives to his care and ability. He helped to train two generations of medical students and residents at the University of Saskatchewan and University of Western Ontario medical schools. Dr. Chertkow played an active role as medical director of the Red Cross in Saskatoon and London. He was a good friend and colleague to all, and was always patient and optimistic. The family thanks the many physicians, nurses, and therapists at University Hospital for their excellent medical care. Funeral will be held at Logan Funeral Home, 371 Dundas St. (between Waterloo and Colborne) on Wednesday, April 24, 2013 at 1 pm. Memorial contributions to the charity of your choice would be appreciated. Online condolences can be expressed at www.loganfh.ca A tree will be planted as a living memorial to Dr. Gerald Chertkow. Services: Service Date Wednesday, April 24, 2013