Search by Name

Search by Name

Richard Shubin Obituary

March 19, 1956 - July 1, 2021 Late in the evening of July 1, 2021 the field of neurology unexpectedly lost a renowned practitioner, researcher, and teacher: Dr. Richard Alan Shubin, beloved husband of Judy Shubin and father of Matthew Shubin. Dr. Shubin, aged 65, was known for his protean knowledge of neurology, focusing on multiple sclerosis, sleep disorders, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. Throughout his more than 30 years practicing medicine, Dr. Shubin was known to the medical community as the neurologist of last resort for patients with the most intractable and complex neurological conditions. Born in Hollywood in 1956, Dr. Shubin was the eldest son of Hilde Shubin and Dr. Herbert Shubin. Motivated to enter medicine by the passing of his physician-father in 1975, he graduated from Stanford University with a BS in Chemistry. He received both his medical degree and master's degree in philosophy from the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Shubin completed his residency in neurology and completed a fellowship in neuroimmunology at Los Angeles County-University of Southern California School of Medicine, where he worked on developing disease models for coronaviruses. Along with maintaining a full private practice in Arcadia, CA, Dr. Shubin was actively engaged in clinical research throughout his career, co-directing the Sleep Disorders Center at Huntington Hospital in Pasadena. He also served as the site investigator for more than 100 clinical trials, authored more than 15 peer-reviewed papers and book chapters, and served as a clinical faculty member at LAC-USC School of Medicine. Dr. Shubin was dedicated to excellence in the practice of medicine and devoted to providing state-of-the-art care to his many patients. Dr. Felice Laverso, CEO and President of Casa Colina Rehabilitation Hospital, where Dr. Shubin served as Director of the multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease clinics, described Dr. Shubin as "one of the most talented neurologists I had ever known. His knowledge and caring about individuals with movement disorders was unprecedented. I admired him and felt fortunate to have known him. I will miss him greatly as will every patient in his orbit." Ever the polymath, Dr. Shubin derived ceaseless joy from his lifelong study of history, natural philosophy, and geology, to the day of his untimely passing. Dr. Shubin is survived by his wife Judy Shubin, son Matthew Shubin, mother Hilde Shubin Rosenbluth, stepfather Irving Rosenbluth, sisters Carol Shubin and Dorothy Shubin, as well as by aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the medical community.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Los Angeles Times on Jul. 11, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Shubin

Not sure what to say?





Marguerita Ludwig

November 13, 2024

I miss you Dr. SHUBIN and I always will.

Jeremiah

September 20, 2023

Into eternity I will remember how much I disliked Dr. Shubin on our first visit together. I was so raw and in pain, and had so many questions after my MS diagnosis. His nurse practitioner, Gail Hartley, would perform my regular checkups, and through her I came to appreciate just how much Dr Shubin cared. When Nurse Hartley retired, instead of sending me somewhere else, Dr Shubin started to see me himself. I came to highly esteem his calm, steady way. His calm helped me stay calm, and it helped inspire hope in a fruitful present, that which I had written off as a loss. Because of his diligence and care, he helped stop my MS in its tracks, and after 11 years I show no progression. I came to look forward to seeing him, because he helped make me confident that no matter the progression, he would know exactly what to do. He took so much weight off my mind. In a big way, that let me live my life. Now every time I see my new neurologist, I mourn Dr Shubin just a little bit. I'm more accustomed to it, but it will never go away. To his dear family, know that he could never have done what he did without you. As much reverence as his patients have for his stellar acumen, you helped make all of it possible. I'm almost as thankful to each of you as I am to him. I hope I get the chance to return all the kindness he gave. If ever you want to get in touch, I work for the company that helped with his final arrangements, and you can call and ask for me. I missed my opportunity to offer my condolences then, and I'm sorry about that.

Gary Jacobsen

September 1, 2023

I was a patient of Dr. Shubin years ago and found him to be of high caliber and very knowledgeable in his field. I have thought of him often and decided to look him up. I was saddened to read of his passing in 2021. Heaven now has a fine neurologist on staff. Dr. Gary Jacobsen, retired

Laura Goode

July 5, 2023

Two years later Dr. Shubin, I still miss the best neurologist I´ve ever had.

Julie Hilton

March 19, 2023

I miss not having him as my physician. Our last conversation was the night he passed. Such an amazing man. Happy Heavenly Birthday Dr. ShubinRest in peace.

John Forster

March 17, 2023

It's so unfair he passed just after having finally given up crutches, walker and cane. I will miss the conversations we had about jazz (I'm guessing no other physician anywhere has such a complete and varied collection in his office) and about Southern Oregon - when I told him years ago I was moving my family up here he immediately assigned me a list of places to go on the coast and on the way there. What a gentleman and a gentle man he was.

Rachel Stern

January 12, 2023

I only met Dr. Shubin once, and had two phone consultations with him, during Covid. He was the only doctor who gave me hope for my conditions. I have felt his passing deeply. May his name be blessed.

Dan Miller

November 6, 2022

Sorry to hear this.

I send his family my belated condolences.

Richard was my best friend age 9 to 18, growing up across the street from each other in Hancock Park, Los Angeles.

Though we did not stay in touch in adulthood (having moved with my parents to Vancouver, Canada) his friendship was important to me.

We went to the same schools for most of that time (Third St. Elementary and Bancroft Jr. High) friendly competitors, pushing each other academically, engendering achievement-oriented directions in our lives.

His parents´ welcoming home was base for many activities for Rick (as we called him) and I and our group of friends.

Rick was kind enough to go with me to take in the many, outstanding plays at the Music Center, a critical, formative moment for my dramatic writing.

I remember warmly his parents Hilda and Herbert (who recognized and supported my artistic streak in many ways) and his younger sisters, Carol and Dorothy.

Goodbye, Richard.

My best to you and yours.

-Dan Miller

Evette Yanez

September 10, 2022

Dr. Shubin was one of the most incredible people, I had the pleasure of getting to know. My case is complex, but he never gave up. He explored the different facets of my issues and accurately discovered and diagnosed some of my issues and was close to solving what we hoped was the linking piece maybe even final piece of my medical puzzle when he passed. Noone can replace him. He was wonderful. My heart and prayers go out to the family, friends, and patients that cared for Dr. Shubin so much.

Lindy Loya, Occupational Therapist

June 26, 2022

I only found out about Dr Shubin´s passing yesterday! He had such a reputation of loving and caring excellence. My heartfelt condolences to his family, his partners and his precious patients! I hope we shall meet again!

Lisa Harris

April 7, 2022

I just saw this news and am so saddened. I hadn't seen Dr. Shubin in several years bc once he got my central apnea figured out, I was good to go. I was just going to make a "still good?" appt. with him. I've got a steep hill to climb to find someone to take over my care with the thoroughness and creativity he did. Fare thee well, Doc.

Teri Coppa

March 25, 2022

We offer our love, honor, and memories for the Shubin family in the untimely loss of Dr. Richard Shubin. We loved him as our neurologist for many family members. Sorry it has taken so long to respond. Our hearts have been greatly saddened by this loss to our lives. Please know he will be in our thoughts for a long, long time. We pray for the family daily. In Jesus Christ´s name we pray. Amen.

Marie Taylor

March 12, 2022

I´m just reading this and I´m so saddened. Dr Shubin saved my life. I had awful migraines and he worked and cared to improve my quality of life. I´ll never forget his impact. My deepest condolences to his family.

S. Chase

October 19, 2021

I am shocked. I´m just finding out that my Doctor of 16 years, Dr Shubin has passed away. After 5 years of seeing several different doctors and being misdiagnosed, I went to Dr. Shubin. Within one month he had properly diagnosed me and had me on the right medication. I have MS. His knowledge saved me and has kept me walking. He will be greatly missed and very hard to replace. My heart and prayers go out to his family. May he rest in peace.

Lorrie Grana

October 15, 2021

Dr Shubin took care of me for 27 years. I have Bi Polar and he saved my life by knowing exactly the right medications for me. He was the kindest and most caring Doctor. I miss him ...

Diane Strollo

September 1, 2021

My deepest sympathies to Mrs. Shubin and family. I was lucky enough to have had Dr. Shubin as my neurologist and he was one of the best MS specialist in CA. He helped me so much and he will be truly missed. May you be at peace Dr. Shubin.

Heidi Lotito

August 3, 2021

I just heard the news and am absolutely devastated. Dr Shubin was my doctor for years up until I recently moved. His compassion and empathy were extraordinary. I´m at a complete loss. I felt so cared for by him. I was never scared by my prognosis with him as my doctor and friend. This is Just the most tragic news. My Condolences to his family, staff and all his patients, who like me are grieving his loss. "People Will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel" Maya Angelou

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Sally Makos

Planted Trees

Pamela Holding-Burkhart

July 27, 2021

OMGOODNESS! I am just in disbelief and complete shock over the passing of one of the most respected and honorable doctors in the community.
He was assigned to me in 2004-5 for my rare and "enigmatic syndrome of Susac´s "; in which he was rather astute. My Mother and family members share my feelings of loss and disbelief. He will be most definitely missed until we meet again with Jesus Christ in Heaven
I knew of Dr. Shubin from my 23 years of working at San Gabriel Valley Medical Center
He would always ask about my daughter, and her well-being. I truly believe that Dr. Shubin took all his patients to heart and over-loaded HIS HEART with all his patients worries and concerns; which led to his own heartfelt response to his heart attack

Sarah and Wally Corrice

July 21, 2021

Wally and I are very heartbroken for your loss. We´re keeping your family in our thoughts. We will plant a tree for him.

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Patricia Oliver & Dillon S.

Planted Trees

Mike Lyvers

July 19, 2021

Rick was one of my oldest and dearest friends. We grew up just a few blocks from each other in the Hancock Park area of L.A. and shared many lifelong interests including astronomy, philosophy, music, and travel. As teenagers we took hiking and camping trips to the High Sierra together in summer and skied Mammoth Mountain in winter. We spent nights in the high desert observing the stars and planets through telescopes. When we were in our twenties, one night Rick and I went to a fancy bar in West L.A. hoping to meet girls; Rick succeeded, finding the love of his life, while I slinked home with not even one new phone number. After years of hard work and study, Rick became a highly respected neurologist and medical researcher. I made sure to catch up with him in person during my annual visits to L.A. over the years and will cherish the memories of our many enjoyable dinners and discussions of various rarefied topics - often animated by fine red wine followed by cognac. In August 2017 we and our wives met up in Wyoming to view the total solar eclipse, a rare and truly mind-blowing spectacle. After the eclipse we explored some of the awesome scenery of the West. The highlight was when Rick skillfully piloted the four of us in his 4WD on the rugged 60-mile Cathedral Valley Loop track through a remote section of Capitol Reef National Park, an area featuring some of the most otherworldly scenery on Earth. On my last visit with Rick in 2019, as usual he handed me some interesting books to take with me back to Australia, and I was looking forward to discussing them in person on our next visit; I never imagined we would not see each other again. Rick was planning to visit Australia and I was planning to visit him on my next trip to the US; we also discussed taking a trip together to Palawan in the Philippines. Unfortunately the pandemic put all travel plans on hold.

Rick died suddenly and unexpectedly. Although taken away from us much too soon, his life was rich and meaningful. He cherished his family and friendships, and he will be greatly missed by many people - myself among them. My heart goes out to Judy and Matthew, his entire family, and all his friends.

Steve & Elizabeth Hurney

July 18, 2021

Both Liz and I offer our sincere condolences to the Shubin family. After knowing Dr. Shubin for 15 years as our doctor, we feel that we have lost a friend.

Ana Marie

July 17, 2021

DR. RICHARD SHUBIN!... as I would mock that quote from the movie "The Fugitive" when I saw you.. My heart is so heavy right now hearing about your passing. You are the ROCKSTAR of Doctors and I too will truly miss our appointments. Even though, I would throw at you my theories or anecdotes about MS and you would roll your eyes at me, I knew you were listening to what I said. You have improved my quality of life and always brought me peace of mind. For this, I am forever grateful and will never forget you and your epic Jazz CD collection in your office. REST, REST, REST

Sabina S.

July 17, 2021

I got a call from Dr. Shubin´s office letting me know my appointment will have to be cancelled. When I asked to reschedule, I heard the unexpected - "I´m sorry but Dr. Shubin passed away". Shockingly sad by the news, I´m left with a strange sense of helplessness and lack of guidance. Rest In Peace, Dr. Shubin. I appreciated your dedication to patient care.

Ken Graff

July 16, 2021

You were my second neurologist of last resort.
You've now made it tearfully possible
For me to be so lucky
To seek a third such noble knight errand
But you were the best
My apnea, my thisnea, my thatna,
and lastly genetic tested celiac
I looked forward to our next appointment
To tell you my overall pain level is down
An unexpected compensation for diet bread
I can now only tell you here thanks, from the bottom of my literal heart.
And friends who read this, be blessed with good images of our past treasure. He lived well.

Jim Longthorne

July 16, 2021

I first met Dr. Shubin in December 2005 right after my seizure. Perfunctory appointments and tests followed for the next 12 years. In November 2017 the casual "How was your summer vacation?" changed our relationship. When I shared with him I had gone to Wyoming to view "The Great American Eclipse" he closed my file, pushed back his chair, and for the next ten minutes, or so we exchanged our stories of being about 60 miles apart watching the Solar trilogy dance!
I began to bring in my Sky & Telescope magazines and as of last year´s appointment the talk was on where to be for the dual eclipses of ´23 and ´24. The Lord willing if I witness either or both, Dr. Shubin will be in my thoughts during those fleeting minutes.
God´s Blessing to all Family, Friends, and fellow observers.
Jim Longthorne

Robert Frandsen and Chris Rivera

July 16, 2021

We would like to extended our heart filled sympathy to his family, and staff. Robert became one of Doctor Shubin´s patient after he had a stroke after surgery in 2019, and we are forever grateful for the excellent care Doctor Shubin gave him. Prayers and blessings.

Angela Krom

July 16, 2021

I was patient of Dr. Shubin's in 2008. He diagnosed and treated me for MS. His expert treatment I believe kept my MS from progressing. I moved to Colorado 6 months after being his patient and my Neurologist Dr. Vollmer (who is also at the top of his profession in the world and Colorado) told me that Dr. Shubin's agressive treatment was indeed the correct treatment. My sympathies go to his family. I appreciated Dr. Shubin's direct and knoweldgeable approach to diagnosing and treating his patients. I will be forever grateful.

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Julie Hilton ~ MS pt. x 13yrs

Planted Trees

Julie H.

July 15, 2021

I came to find out I was Dr. Shubin's last patient he spoke with and his last patient note that he wrote out. We had a wonderful conversation that evening on the 1st. His last words to me were, "we'll see you in 6 weeks". Dr. Shubin has taken care of me throughout my journey with MS. I always knew I was in excellent hands. He was always a huge advocate for his patients and was right there to make sure that you were not suffering in anyway. His loss is huge and we will miss him terribly. Rest in peace Dr. Shubin. I'm so glad I was able to thank you that last night of your life, for all that you've done for me. You have touched SO many lives and we will never forget. My condolences to your family

Lorrie Grana

July 15, 2021

Dr Shubin saved my life. I was diagnosed Bi-polar 28 years ago by a Psychiatrist. Dr Shubin put me on the right medications. He was so uniquely caring. I was so saddened by this news

Cristina johansing

July 14, 2021

Dr Shubin was one of the most caring doctors. He cared of my special needs adult conservatee for 18yrs and she loved her visits with him. When we were taking a trip to Maine a couple years ago, he gave us places we needed to see, which we did. Katie loved telling him about her trips and adventures. He will be missed!!!

Dr. Ben Shwachman

July 13, 2021

Drs Shubin, Fortenace, Imbus, Mrs. Imbus and I all met years ago at the Raymond one night. Some spastic patients could only have a life if the spasticity were controlled and some only if the drug, baclofen, was placed next to the spinal cord. We all planned out how the service would work I would do the surgery at Methodist and Mrs Imbus would refill the spiinal pumps with 3 neurologists managing the patient. It worked for a number of years. Mrs Imbus is gone, I will be retiring soon, and now Richard. The loss of Richard is a terrible loss to the community. Richard helped so many including my wife. It was an honor to have known him and worked with him.

Deborah Lair

July 12, 2021

Dr Shubin was my moms neurologist and he gave us our mom back. He went above and beyond to figure out how to get her better. He was caring, concerned and down to earth. He listened to our concerns and proactively changed her meds and the change in her was remarkable. He was caring and compassionate and celebrated with us as she just kept getting better.

We are deeply saddened at his passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and his office staff.

Ron Reyes

July 12, 2021

Farewell Dr. Richard Shubin. You will be missed. Rest In Peace. I also send my sympathies, condolences and prayers for his Family. - Sincerely, Ron Reyes (former pharmaceutical representative with Glaxosmithkline)

Salina B

July 12, 2021

Dr. Shubin was my neurologist and sleep specialist for over 16 years! There are no words to explain my sorrow at hearing about his passing. He cared about me and my overall health from day one. He was the first doctor to catch my genetic disorder. And there is no doctor that can replace him. I deeply miss him and send good thoughts to his colleagues and family.

Laura G

July 12, 2021

Dr. Shubin was the best neurologist ever. I was heartbroken to hear of his passing. I will forever be grateful to him and I miss him greatly. My condolences to his family.

Ellen Armijo

July 11, 2021

I saw Dr. Shubin on July 1st and was in shock when I heard of his passing. I have been a patient of his for over 6 years. Every doctor I came in contact with and when I mentioned Dr. Shubin was my doctor, their response was the utmost of respect and stated that I was in great care. He cared about his patients and would comment or question if he felt your doctors were not providing the care you needed. He will surely be missed by all. My thoughts and condolences to his family colleagues and friends.

Sandra Momotiukk and Bob Gustavson

July 11, 2021

Dr. Shubin diagnosed my wife and got her into treatment after months of false starts with other doctors, all of whom discounted her symptoms.
Every medical professional we see knew Dr Shubin and were saddened to hear of his passing. Dr. Shubin was a good person and a god-send, and will be greatly missed.

Cheryl Clark

July 11, 2021

Dr. Shubin was my neurologist at Casa Colina. He was a wonderful doctor. He took his time and was very thorough. I will miss him very much. My prayers are with his family.

Showing 1 - 41 of 41 results

Make a Donation
in Richard Shubin's name

Memorial Events
for Richard Shubin

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Richard's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Richard Shubin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more