Bruce Michael Forester

Bruce M. Forester, M.D., passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025, surrounded by family, at the age of 86-on his 63rd wedding anniversary to his beloved wife, Erica.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Bruce carried his roots with pride throughout his life. He graduated from Dartmouth College and earned his medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, where he also completed his residency in psychiatry. He went on to enjoy a meaningful and remarkable career as a psychiatrist in private practice in New York, teaching students at Columbia P&S and touching the lives of so many through his intellect, compassion, and deep understanding of the human mind.

In addition to his medical career, Bruce was a gifted and accomplished murder mystery author, writing several novels that drew on his keen psychological insight and love of storytelling. His writing brought joy to readers and reflected his curiosity, creativity, and wit.

Bruce was a devoted and loving husband to Erica (Simms), a cherished father to Brent and his wife Kim, Robin and her husband Noah, and Russell, and a loving grandfather to seven grandchildren: Rylan, Sasha, Alex, Braden, Justin, Lily, and Larkin. He was a beloved father and grandfather who took immense pride in his family.

Above all, Bruce taught those around him to appreciate every day, to enjoy life, and not to sweat the small stuff. He believed deeply in the importance of balance-reminding us that hard work matters, but so does fun, laughter, friendship, and time with those we love. He lived with a spirit of love and caring, and his wisdom, humor, and generosity will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

Bruce had lifelong connections to two academic institutions he cared about so deeply.

Donations can be made to either of the following:

Dartmouth:

Dartmouth College Fund

In memory of Bruce Forester '61

6066 Development Office

Hanover, NH 03755-4400

Columbia P&S:

Donations in memory of Dr. Bruce M. Forester can be made online at https://medicine.givenow.columbia.edu/ and

checks should be made payable to The Trustees of Columbia University and mailed to the attention of Jane Ferrone at

Office of Development, 516 West 168th Street, 3rd Floor New York, NY 10032 with a note indicating the gift is designated for the medical school in memory of Dr. Forester.

Immediately following the burial the family will be hosting a reception at The Waterstone, 150 Bloomingdale Road, White Plains, NY from 1230 PM to 430 PM

On Friday December 26th, we will host a reception at the home of Robin Forester and Noah Kauff between 1-5 PM. 153 Fieldpoint Drive, Irvington, NY.