In Memoriam

Winter 2025

Class of 4T7

Dr. David Lloyd SHAUL, after a long life well-lived, on September 9, 2024, days short of his 100th birthday. David was a well loved, passionately dedicated and highly respected obstetrician and gynaecologist, following in the footsteps of his father. Their practices at Mount Sinai Hospital spanned about 70 years. He was an innovator in medical practice. Among his achievements, he became the first director of a course on human sexuality in the University of Toronto (no Temerty) Faculty of Medicine, and in 1980, he received the faculty's W.T. Atkins award for excellence in teaching. He retired as Associate Professor of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Psychiatry, a certified sex counsellor and sex educator. David's lifetime hobby was photography. He was also a skilled sailor, although a hacker at golf. He was the ultimate people person as a delightfully entertaining comic and for his empathetic nature and dedication to service. For a decade he was the highest individual fundraiser in the Walk for Alzheimer's raising more than $280,000. Published obituary

Class of 5T3

Dr. Donald BARR, peacefully in Collingwood, Ontario on August 13, 2024, just shy of his 95th birthday. Don met Elizabeth in medical school at the University of Toronto and they were married 50 years before she passed. He served in the Navy part time and rose to the rank of Surgeon Lieutenant. He moved from private medical practice to Director of the Ryerson Medical clinic where he wore many hats including team doctor, Chairman of Health Science, Dean of Community Services and on the Board of Governors as well as many advisory committees over his 24-olus-year career. Post-retirement he continued to serve underserviced areas as fill-in MD. His love of Church (St George’s and Trinity), stamps, crosswords and bridge filled his available time when not travelling the world. Published obituary

Class of 5T4

Dr. Sam RUBENZAHL on Thursday, October 3, 2024 (Rosh Hashana 5785), at Baycrest Hospital. Sam was loved and respected by the many people whose lives he touched, both in his professional and private life. He cared for thousands of patients for over 50 years at the Baycrest Apotex Centre and the Terraces, as well as in his family practice in Downsview and at the Branson Hospital. He was interested in everyone's story. He had an insatiable interest in learning, music, culture, exploring, hiking and staying active, but most of all, he adored his family and friends. Dr. Rubenzahl, Sam, Dad, Zaidy.... He will be missed by many.

Class of 5T6

Dr. Arnold ARAI, peacefully on August 19, 2024, at Mackenzie Health-Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital. Arnold was born on April 14, 1928, in Vancouver, British Columbia, and married in 1958 to Sadie, the love of his life, who was at his side for 49 years. Arnie attended the University of Toronto and graduated in 1952 with a degree in Honours Science (Physiology and Biochemistry). After graduation from the U of T medical school in 1956, he began working in the medical practice of Langstaff, Smith and Wynne in Richmond Hill. Dr. James Langstaff encouraged Arnie to pursue General Surgery (graduated 1963) and showed him the path to work-life balance in the Muskokas. Arnie is best known as the surgeon who worked tirelessly saving lives and always showed up in a suit and tie when he was not in scrubs. Arnie worked at York County hospital (Southlake Regional Health Centre) for a short period of time, awaiting the opening of York Central Hospital (Mackenzie Health Richmond Hill) in December 1963. At hospital opening, he was one of two general surgeons on staff, leading to a legendary career holding many positions including Chief of Surgery and Chief of Staff during his tenure. Arnie is fondly remembered for his gentle demeanor, and passionate and respectful care for patients and hospital staff, and as a leader and mentor to new surgeons and healthcare professionals.

Class of 5T8

Dr. R.C. (Charles) BULL, peacefully with family at his side in his beloved Humber Hospital, on Saturday, September 7, 2024. At the age of 15, Charles was in eighth grade after skipping three years and had to repeat a year, as the University of Toronto would not accept such a brilliant young student at that age. He followed in the footsteps of his father and uncles into med school at U of T. Charles was the team doctor for the Jr Marlboroughs hockey team, and worked at the Maple Leafs training camp, going on to Team Canada Hockey Doctor from 1972 to 1991 including the 1972 "Series of the Century" Canada vs USSR. He ran a successful medical practice in sports medicine and orthopaedic surgery from his Weston office, and with Humber Hospital from 1964 until 2009. He held a clinic at the O&A Hospital and started clinics at both York University and the Fitness Institute. He was also on the medical team for multiple track clubs as well as the World Masters Track Games and Pan-Am Games as the team doctor and sports specialist.

Class of 6T1

Dr. Paul DRUCKMAN, peacefully on September 18, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on April 9, 1937, Paul lived a wonderful life full of adventure, friendship, humour and passion. He loved and revered his family above all else, and will be sorely missed. Paul had the rare combination of razor sharp analytical skills, fierce competitive drive, questioning intellect and all with disarming warmth and positivity. Paul's legacy is remembered by his family and friends, who will never forget his wisdom, curiosity and caring.

Class of 6T3

Dr. Derek Anthony DAVIDSON, peacefully on October 21, 2024 after a brief illness, with family by his side. Derek will be remembered for his gentle kindness, his devotion to his family and community, and his never-ending pursuit of education.

Class of 6T4

Dr. Alexander E. M. BORGIEL, peacefully, with his family by his side, on Monday, July 15, 2024, at Dorothy Ley Hospice, at the age of 86.

Class of 7T0

Dr. Francis BOBIK-ORCHARD at Chapman House, Owen Sound on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, in her 84th year. Francis enjoyed many years practicing anesthesia at Women's College and the Orthopedic and Arthritic Hospitals in Toronto.

Class of 7T8

Dr. Michael David PAUL, unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at his home in St. John's, Newfoundland, where he was a practicing nephrologist until the end (published obituary). MD 7T8 classmate Howard Ovens shares that Michael did not attend reunions but always kept in touch with him by email and that he was delighted to see Michael and his wife (Barbara Grandy, a family physician) over dinner a couple of years ago at Sid Nusinowitz's home. Michael had had some health problems but was relentlessly positive. Howard learned of Michael's passing in response to a message he sent about the passing of Art vanWalraven. Howard passes on his condolences to Michael's wife and his many friends, colleagues and patients who will all miss him terribly.

Class of 9T9

Dr. Adam ADLER, on November 9th, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in emergency medicine and an enduring impact on all who had the privilege of working with him. In 2004, Adam became the first physician to be recruited to the Scarborough Health Network's Emergency Department (ED) with a prestigious five-year Royal College Fellowship in Emergency Medicine. His exceptional skills, keen intellect, and dedication to patient care earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and frontline staff alike. Those who worked alongside Adam knew him as a superb clinician — a compassionate and trusted physician whose judgment was never in doubt. Despite facing significant health challenges in recent years, Adam continued to serve with unwavering commitment. He was always willing to step in and help cover shifts in the ED, where he remained a fixture, demonstrating an exemplary work ethic and an enduring passion for his patients. Adam's approach to medicine was characterized by his deep care, skill and compassion. He was known for taking the time to listen, for always putting the needs of his patients first, and for bringing a sense of calm to even the most difficult situations. His legacy extends beyond his professional achievements; his kindness, generosity, and humility will be remembered by all who knew him. Adam left this world far too soon, but the way in which he lived — his passion for his work, his kindness to others, and his unwavering commitment to care — will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to inspire us all. (Adapted from a memo shared by SHN staff.)