Raul Berdichevsky

Dr. Raul Berdichevsky (January 18, 1947 – February 21, 2025)

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our loving husband, father, grandfather, and father-in-law, Raul Berdichevsky. Born in Santiago, Chile, Raul studied medicine and shortly before graduating he would meet his future wife of 53 years, Matilde Lekanda. They arrived in Canada as refugees after fleeing Chile in the wake of the military coup in 1973.

Raul became a psychiatrist in Canada and worked at the Wellesley Hospital and later at St. Michael's Hospital, in which, as an assistant professor at the University of Toronto, he was a supervisor for residents in psychiatry. Raul was also a longtime volunteer at the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture.

His dedication went beyond his profession; he was a loyal friend, a mentor, and a source of wisdom and calm to many. His interest in world politics, and his enjoyment of art, literature, food, culture, the cosmos, etc, made him a formidable conversationalist.

Raul loved to come up with beautiful, vivid, stories for his children. His three grandchildren -- Mila (León and Laura), Tassia and Paskal (Katia) -- brought out his goofy qualities. He was witty with children and adults alike, and had a hilariously awkward (often dark) sense of humour.

His quiet force, kindness, intellect, and unwavering moral compass will be deeply missed but never forgotten by all those he touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care, the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture (CCVT), or the Canadian Centre for Refugee & Immigrant Healthcare (CCRIHC), honoring his lifelong commitment to mental health and human rights.

Descansa en paz Raul/papá/Abi. Te amamos hoy, mañana y siempre.