Dr. Edwin G. Zalis

1934 - 2017

April 22, 1934 - August 17, 2017 Dr. Edwin G. Zalis, born on April 22, 1934, passed away on September 17 and was buried in Israel. A renowned and respected cardiologist, he pioneered invasive procedures in the San Fernando Valley, performed the first heart catheter on TV in 1971, established three cardiac care units, created the first public cardiology conference, "An Affair of the Heart," and authored more than 30 medical research papers and a widely used textbook Understanding Electrocardiography. Ed was a man of the highest principles and integrity - respected and loved by colleagues, patients and friends. A Renaissance man, he was an avid sailor, ultralight pilot, astronomer, student of Jewish history and the natural world, and a dedicated Zionist and philanthropist. He shared his love of adventure and travel with family and friends, visiting every continent - including such remote spots as the Arctic Circle, Easter Island and the Atacama Desert. He chased total solar eclipses, witnessing Halley's Comet and the Northern Lights. He loved sunsets, always looking for the green flash. His mantra, "Carpe Diem," was how he lived his life. But above all, Ed was a loving and adored husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and loyal friend, all of whom said he changed their lives. Ed will be missed and remembered with love by his wife Rosalie, daughters Lynn Rohatiner (Marc Rohatiner), Shelley Zalis Fleshner (Dr. Phil Fleshner), Charene Zalis Waldman ( Peter Waldman), and Rachel Zalis. Grandchildren Adena Frenkel (Jordan Frenkel), Danielle Mendelsberg (Dr. Ranan Mendelsberg), Tamar Bendheim (Chezki Bendheim), Alex, Niki, Jake, Jenna, Mikela and Kira, and great grandchildren Ayla, Asher, Liev, Manny and his namesake Eddie, whose Bris occurred the day after his funeral. His family and community have lost a giant of a man. A memorial service will be held on Thursday evening, October 19 at 7:30 p.m. at Beth Jacob Congregation in Beverly Hills. Donations may be made to Beth Jacob Congregation, The Simon Wiesenthal Center Museum of Tolerance, any Israeli medical institution or charity of your choice.