Abraham Ginsberg

CHAMPAIGN – Abraham Gerald Ginsberg, M.D., was a man of civility, curiosity and integrity who gave unselfishly to his family and communities.

Born in London, Ontario, Canada, in 1916, he was the best friend and beloved husband of Jean Ginsberg for 62 years; loved sibling of Hym, Reub, Min (deceased) and Esther; dear brother-in-law to Charles, Herm, Iz, Irene (deceased), Dorothy Jane, Muriel and Lee; treasured father of Carol and Penny (deceased), Dan, Gwen and Paul, Kay (of California); adored grandfather of Ben, Dave, Sarah, Jason and Joey; loving cousin; favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews; and cherished friend to many in the communities of Champaign-Urbana and Santa Cruz, Calif.

A brilliant student, Dr. Ginsberg graduated and received his M.D. at the age of 22. He enlisted and served from 1943 to 1946 as a captain in the Canadian Armed Forces. During World War II, he saved many lives on the battlefields of Europe. After the war, he completed a residency in hematology and anatomical pathology at Cook County Hospital, Chicago, and a fellowship in pathologic anatomy in Omaha, Neb. Board certified in pathology, Dr. Ginsberg practiced medicine in Illinois into his late 70s.

He was a dedicated member of many medical associations and societies, including the American Medical Association, American Society of Clinical Pathologists and College of American Pathologists. He served on various committees, including curriculum development and medical education. Dr. Ginsberg had a lifelong interest in politics and kept current with local, national and international developments. Not content to sit on the sidelines, he campaigned with great commitment and energy for the office of coroner in Champaign County at the age of 72.

With admirable athletic skill, Abe enjoyed golf, tennis and bike riding; he was a pianist, beekeeper, dedicated reader and livelong learner. Abe and his beautiful wife, Jean, had a loving and devoted partnership that was an inspiration to many. Abe's deep compassion and respect for all, stoicism, courage and grace endeared him to all who knew him.

Mr. Ginsberg passed away on Saturday, May 5, 2007.

Services on Wednesday, May 9 at 1 p.m. will be conducted by Rabbi Barry Marks at the Chapel at Mount Hope Cemetery, 611 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Champaign.

The meal of condolence is to follow the service and will be held at the home of Dr. Paul and Linda Weichsel, 2812 S. Salisbury Court, Champaign.

Arrangements are by Mittendorf-Calvert.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Friends to the Elderly of Jewish Family Service/ c/o FMMC, 330 N. Fairfax Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90036.