Gerald R. Safier

Dr. Gerald R. Safier, 85, a prominent and devoted physician in Davie, FL and resident of Hollywood, FL since 1971, passed away on October 9, 2017. He was born in Newark, NJ April 26, 1932 as the youngest son of Hannah & Sydney Safier. Gerry enjoyed a life well lived. He shared 45 wonderful years of marriage with his beautiful and loving wife, Ethel Pearlman Safier, who predeceased him on 10/15/08. He is survived by his loving family who are devastated by his passing including his daughters, Renée Safier Harris (Marc) of Parkland, FL and Gayle Safier of Davie, FL, whom he said were his greatest accomplishments. He is also survived by his 4 amazing grandchildren, Matthew & Jenna Harris and Drew & Jessie Cohen, his older brother, Lester Safier of Torrance, CA and cousins, nieces, nephews & friends. He is predeceased by his sister, June Dennis. A proud graduate of Weequahic High School (1950), he became an optometrist, served in the Air Force in Okinawa and practiced in the NJ area for a few years. However, he was not satisfied as an optometrist and returned to school, earning his medical degree at the College of Osteopathic Medicine in Des Moines, Iowa in 1969. In 1971, after moving to North Miami for his residencey in family medicine, he opened his medical practice in Davie, FL where he served his patients well for over 45 years. Gerry was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was compassionate, humble & a friend to all. He was an avid golfer & amateur chef with a warm, firm handshake, loving smile and great sense of humor. After mourning his wife's passing and despite his great sadness, Gerry continued his zest for life, always looking and acting 20 years younger than he was. He later re-connected with Barbara Klein Weisman, his high school girlfriend, and they enjoyed the rest of his years together. Gerry was much loved & returned that love to so many more. He is greatly missed. A memorial service was held at The Star of David Memorial Gardens, N. Lauderdale, FL on 10/11/17 where he is laid to rest. Donations can be made in Gerry's honor to: Debbie's Dream Foundation, 2 S. University Drive, Suite 326, Plantation, FL 33324, debbiesdream.org; or to St. Judes, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, www.stjude.org./donate.