Robert B. Litman
November 17, 1947 - January 15, 2021
Resident of Lincoln, CA
Dr. Robert Barry Litman, formerly of Danville, CA, died suddenly on 15 January 2021. A husband, father of four, and new grandfather of one, Dr. Litman was born on 17 November 1947 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to the late Dr. Benjamin and Mrs. Bette Litman. As the second of seven boys, he loved to reminisce about his childhood days in Philadelphia, eating cheesesteaks and attending Phillies games with his brothers, and going on house calls with his father.
He graduated from Overbrook High School in 1964 and attended Yale College at the age of 16, from which he graduated three years later with Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Chemistry. He then graduated from Yale University School of Medicine in 1970, where he was awarded a Doctor of Medicine and Master's of Philosophy in Anatomy. He completed his medical residency at Yale University, followed by a residency in general surgery at Bryn Mawr Hospital. In the spring of 1985, he married Niki Litman (née Thomas) and they relocated to California to raise their children and open a new family medical practice in the Bay Area. He practiced medicine for 43 years: in Hamden, CT; Ogdensburg, NY; and San Ramon, CA.
A physician revered for his medical acumen, compassionate bedside manner, and brilliance as a diagnostician, he treated thousands of patients over the course of his lifetime. His passion for medicine went far beyond the exam room: he made old-fashioned house calls, authored two medical mystery novels, and served as the proud moderator and medical commentator of "Ask the Doctor," a multiple Telly award-winning show serving the East Bay community for over a decade.
Dr. Litman leaves behind an indelible legacy of a man who contained great multitudes: a Yale billiards champion and tennis captain; his kids' proud Little League coach; a skilled guitarist with a love of Bob Dylan and The Beatles; an unmatched movie aficionado and Trivial Pursuit winner; a voracious reader of history, current events, and literature; and most recently a proud and loving Grandpop. He is survived by his three daughters, Riva Belle (John Sciuto), Nadya Beth, and Caila Tess (Alex Remnick); one grandson, John Benjamin; and five brothers (Gary, Larry, Randy, Richard, and Donald Litman). He was predeceased by his wife Niki (2011), his 19-year-old son Benjamin David (2010), and his older brother Terry (Paul) Litman (2004). A traditional Jewish burial service was held at Gan Shalom Cemetery on 21 January, where he will forever rest with his wife and son.
Donations can be made in Dr. Litman's memory to his alma mater, Yale School of Medicine, to support the next generation of physicians and promote the same medical research about which he was so passionate. Please select "Alumni Fund - Student Research' when making your contribution. In his memory, the family asks that you watch your favorite movie, enjoy a good meal, and always remember to find the humor in life alongside the ones you love.
Sinai Memorial Chapel

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Published by East Bay Times on Jan. 22, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Litman

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11 Entries

Dorothy Kabat

April 2, 2024

The best doctor we ever had. John, myself, my mother and my aunt all were satisfied patients. I had many conversations about Bob Dylan with him
He saved my husband´s life when he detected a trace amount of blood in his urine and immediately sent him to the best urologist who discovered early stage kidney cancer. He survived the surgery and that was 18 years ago. I am forever grateful to him.
We are so sad to hear about his death. He will long be remembered by me
With deepest condolences to his family.
John and Dorothy Kabat

Colleen Sandler

January 16, 2022

Dear Richard and Cheryl,
I remember your brother Robert and pray that he is resting in peace. My thoughts are with you. Colleen

Donald Saunders Litman

March 9, 2021

His effort to be a great doctor started with hard work and study. He knew the science and understood the medicine, and all the people he treated were better for his excellent medical care and personal love of everyone. He left us too soon, but if it wasn't for him none of his brothers would have gone on to reach the stars like he did. He was our role model and his kindness and love was sewn into the hearts of his kids. He was a loving father, a warm brother, and always willing to help.

Molly & Frances

Planted Trees

Carol Engle

February 1, 2021

I’m saddened to hear of Rob’s passing. He was a brilliant, caring man. My thoughts and prayers are with his children at this difficult time.

Bill & Michelle Tinsley

January 22, 2021

We were stunned and saddened at the passing of Dr. Litman.
Our sincerest thoughts and prayers are with Rob's daughters
and family at this most difficult time.

The Patterson Family

Planted Trees

Colleen Sandler

January 22, 2021

Dear Cheryl and Richard, please accept our deepest sympathy on the very sad loss of your brother. We are praying for you all. MHDSRIP.

January 21, 2021

He left for Yale 4 years before this picture was taken. A mother's pride and a brother's aspiration.

Jack Acosta

January 21, 2021

You will be missed Rob , thank you for being a friend, neighbor and of course my doctor. God bless you and may you Rest In Peace!

Donald Litman

January 21, 2021

He was the smartest physician! A great diagnostician. A great loss for us all. He made house calls, and stopped while driving if he saw an accident to offer his help. Truly a man who loved to help his fellow man.

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