Dr. Donald Jay Greenspan died Friday, Jan. 10, 2020, after a short illness, He was 91.
He was born and educated in the Philadelphia area. He was an inventor, artist, and much loved family physician in Riverside, N.J., where he practiced medicine for almost 60 years. He put down his stethoscope three years ago, at the age of 88, but continued to work on his various inventions until five weeks before his death.
In September, Rutgers Food Innovation Center accepted one of his food science inventions. He commanded the room for the presentation.
His inventions over the decades spanned the fields of art and architecture, medicine, science, and design.
He was beloved by those who knew him. He is survived by his cherished and devoted companion of 20 years, Joan Costello; his daughter, Alisa Greenspan (Frank Soroka); Alisa's mother, Dr. June Greenspan; granddaughter, Lily; a host of friends and patients; and a filing cabinet filled with inventions.
Services will be held at 10:45 a.m. Monday, Jan. 13, at Mount Laurel Home for Funerals, 212 Ark Road, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054.
Mount Laurel Home for Funerals,
Mount Laurel
mountlaurelfuneralhome.com
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Dear Family & Friends of Dr. Greenspan,
What a life & a tribute to life from great guy. He was my family doctor from early childhood. I actually recall him making a home visit with the little black bag. He had showed me his oxidation artworks in what waqs then his new office. Even though I did not see him for 27 years, I will always envision him as someone who embodied a life well lived.
Jonathan Gaffin
Jonathan Gaffin
Other
December 23, 2021
Wow it’s been a year already Dr Greenspan! You missed a lot in 2020!
I think of you often.
Love always ,
Tracy Mueller
Tracy Mueller
Friend
January 5, 2021
Dr. Green was a much admired and loved friend of my family for the 60 years he practiced medicine. I think he was my mother's most trusted confidant during that time. He watched the fights with my dad. Helped 5 of us through adolescence. Advised us about life decisions. Attended weddings. Made us laugh and think. How fortunate the Bob and Alice Clauss family was to have him in our lives
Carol Clauss
January 15, 2020
Doc, it's hard to believe this day has come, ugh!
It was fun working with you over the years, going to dinner with you & Joan, & of course the Kahlua!
We will miss you dearly & we will Never Forget You!
Love,
Mike & Janet
Mike Fertig
January 14, 2020
Janet Truxton
January 14, 2020
Great doctor whose diligence and care helped me discover Prostate cancer early. That was 11 years ago. He knew all of my family members and my dad did welding for him on some of his artwork. Best doctor in South Jersey and we were sad when he retired. God Bless the family and friends of this extrodinary man.
JIm Maher Jr.
January 13, 2020
Dr. Greenspan was my doctor for 40 years. He would diagnose me before I even finished with symptoms and always recommend the best treatments. Just as important - maybe even more - he helped me through a very difficult and emotional time in my life. He would spend whatever time was necessary in a visit - never rushed - simply just caring. When he retired I was at a loss and still havent found a primary doctor - who could ever replace him. Thank you Dr. Greenspan - May you Rest In Peace. God knows youve earned it. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being the BEST doctor ever - the most compassionate and caring man. You will be missed.
Eleanor Keith
January 13, 2020
Dr. Greenspan was my doctor for 40 years. He not only helped me with my medical issues - diagnosed the problem even before I was done telling him my symptoms- but also helped me through a very difficult emotional time in my life. He spent as much time as needed with every single visit. He was the most compassionate and caring man. Since he retired, I've been at a loss and still haven't found a primary doctor - who could ever replace him. Rest In Peace Dr. Greenspan and thank you for your never ending love for your patients. You were the BEST! With much gratitude and love, Eleanor Keith
January 13, 2020
You were quite the character Dr. Greenspan! I did enjoy our conversations and laughter at my appointments. I dont think I will find another doctor like you! I hope heaven has your favorite drink! Rest easy doc!
Barbara Anning
January 12, 2020
You were my doctor since I was a teenager in 1968. I counted you as a friend, therapist, devil's advocate, confidant, and probably the most intelligent, interesting, person I have ever known. You were truly one of the greatest Renaissance men of your time. The world has lost a great soul, but is a better place for having had you in it. You will be greatly missed by so many. I will miss hearing about your art, inventions, and new endeavors.
Rosalie Giardinelli
January 12, 2020
Doc you will always have a huge place in my heart. I will miss you and think of you often. You were family. Xoxo
Travy Mueller
January 12, 2020
when i was a child in the 1060's dr greenspan came our house on a housecall . we were a familt of 6 kids and we all came down with measels or chickenpoxs. that was a memory i have carried all these years with a smile.thank you sir for all your service.
January 12, 2020
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10:45 a.m.
Mount Laurel Home for Funerals & Cremation Services, Inc.212 Ark Road, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054-6309
Funeral services provided by:
Mount Laurel Home for Funerals & Cremation Services, Inc.212 Ark Road, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054-6309
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