ALVIN MAHRER

MAHRER, Alvin R. Ph. D
Dr. Alvin R. Mahrer, Ph.D, age 86, died peacefully at home in Ottawa on Sunday, April 13, surrounded by his daughter, Rachel, and dedicated caretakers and friends, Bill and Terri. Dr. Mahrer was a Professor Emeritus at the University of Ottawa. In 1954, he graduated from Ohio State University with a doctorate in clinical psychology, went to work at the VA Hospital in Denver, and became president of the Colorado Psychological Association. In 1967, he became professor and clinical director at Miami University, Ohio, and later, he held the same positions at the University of Waterloo and at the University of Ottawa. Dr. Mahrer has received many awards and acknowledgments throughout his career. In 1975, he was made a fellow of the American Psychological Association. In 1992, he won the Award for Excellence in Research from the University of Ottawa. In 1997, Dr. Mahrer received the Distinguished Psychologist Award from the American Psychological Association, Division 29. In 2002, Dr. Mahrer won the Living Legend in Psychotherapy Award from the American Psychological Association, Division 29. And in 2005, Dr. Mahrer was awarded with the Rollo May Award for Pursuit of New Frontiers from the American Psychological Association, Division 32. Dr. Mahrer has written over 20 books on his theory of humanistic, experiential psychology. He continued his work; both in writing and discussion until his death. His work was his passion, and was the very centre of his life. Dr. Mahrer is survived by his children and grandchildren. He was the father of Rachel (children: Sarah and Ben) and Jon (children: Ben and Anna; wife: Debbie), stepfather of Mike (children: Zoe and Connor; wife: Marjory) and David. The family thanks Bill Truesdale, assisted by Terri Neate, for their devoted care of our father, for many years which allowed him to live at home as he wished. A Memorial Service is planned for June 29 in Ottawa, details TBD. The time and location of the Memorial will be posted on www.almahrer.com.