Melvyn Barry Levine

Dr. Melvyn Barry Levine, aged 82, of Medford, MA, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on July 7, 2024. Melvyn was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed physician who dedicated his life to the service of others. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 58 years, Pamela Levine, and is survived by his children: Ian M. Levine of Arlington, MA, and partner Theresa Murphy of Newton, MA; Susan J. Levine of Newburyport, MA, and partner Douglas Kwartler of Chelmsford, MA; James S. Levine and wife Dr. Suzann Levine of Los Angeles, CA; his grandchildren: Huck Eaton, Calvin Eaton, Quincy Levine, and Farrah Levine, who were his pride and joy; his sister, Doris Tolins of Queens, NY; his brother-in-law Marvin Gersten and sister-in-law Helaine Gersten of Westfield, NJ; and his adoring nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and extended family members.
Melvyn was born in 1942 in the Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY, where he grew up with his mother, Ruth, grandmother, Fannie, and older sister, Doris. A Brooklyn Dodgers fan, Mel spent summers working at his Uncle Max's pizza shop on Coney Island. He excelled academically, graduating from Midwood High School, and entering Columbia University at just 16. A true renaissance man, Mel majored in Art History, studied the classics, and was involved in the college folk music club, all while pursuing a pre-medical education.
It was during his time at Columbia University that he met Pamela Gersten, the love of his life, whom he married in 1963 and with whom he shared a great romance until her passing in 2021. Their love story began when Pam and her mother, Roslyn, moved into the apartment building where Mel and his family were living. Encouraged by his mother to introduce himself to the newgirl, Mel made the long trek from Apartment 3D to Apartment 3E and knocked on her door. It was love at first sight. Mel often described their relationship as "beshert," the Yiddish term for pre-destined or meant-to-be, and all who knew them agreed that they were soulmates.
Following his graduation from Columbia, Mel attended NYU Medical School, graduating at the top of his class. He completed his internship and residency at Mass General Hospital in Boston, becoming Chief Resident in Pediatrics. He then began his service in the United States Air Force and was stationed at Travis Air Force Base in California, where he quickly rose to the rank of Major. In 1971, the family returned to Massachusetts, settling in Medford, where Mel established himself as a pediatrician in private practice, eventually joining Medford Pediatrics and ultimately establishing Pediatric Associates of Medford with close colleagues.
Throughout his 45-year medical career, including his tenure as Chief of Pediatrics at Malden Hospital and his affiliation with Harvard Medical School, Dr. Levine touched countless lives with his medical expertise, kindness, and compassion. He was known for his tireless dedication, and former patients often returned with their own children, a testament to his lasting impact on generations. He was known and loved far and wide, and it wasn't uncommon to hear "Dr. Levine!" shouted across a restaurant, an airport, or while on vacation. Mel's generosity extended beyond the office and hospital; he was always willing to offer medical advice or lend a helping hand to friends, family, neighbors, and strangers in need. Throughout his life, he faced his own health challenges with grace and strength, inspiring all who knew him.
A lover of music, especially classic country, Mel filled his home with the songs of artists like Willie Nelson and Patsy Cline. He loved dancing with Pam, and the pair was often the first on and last off a dance floor. Mel was also a poet, expressing his deep love and emotion through heartfelt poems composed for every occasion, a tradition treasured by his family. Upon retiring from clinical practice in 2012, Mel cherished spending time with Pam, his children, and especially his grandchildren, who adored their "Papa Mel." He also served on the Board of Temple Shalom in Medford, where he was an active member for over 50 years.
Mel has been described by many as "the kindest person you will ever meet." His kindness was unassuming and unconditional, profoundly impacting the lives of all those lucky enough to know him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Shalom in Medford.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at 10 am at Temple Shalom, 475 Winthrop Street, Medford. Condolence calls can be made with the family at Temple Shalom following the burial from 2 pm to 5 pm.
To join the service webcast please click the link below: MelvynLevineFuneral
Meeting ID: 870 7636 7429
Passcode: 002155