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Peter Lefkow Obituary

LEFKOW--Peter. The members of Scarsdale Synagogue Temples Tremont and Emanu-El mourn the death of Dr. Peter Lefkow, longtime and devoted member. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his children, Danielle, Lindsay, Christie and the entire family. Our hearts and thoughts are with them. Rabbi Stephen A. Klein Rabbi Andrew J. Gordon Chanin Becker, Cantor Ellen Plum Rosenberg, President

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Oct. 1, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Peter Lefkow

Sponsored by anonymous.

52 Entries

David A Adler

September 9, 2025

Peter sat next to me in HS Chemistry AT Lawrence. He was outgoing smart and nice, a rare combination. I am saddened by his passing. David A Adler

Michele

April 28, 2024

So many doctors are stuck in 20-minute block sessions, and never truly understand their patients' needs. Peter Lefkow was the exception. He spent his time, his energy, his wisdom, and the most genuine care and concern for me every time we met. I remember your kindness and your enthusiasm, and I pray you had had many students who learned from you what it means to be a caring doctor. You are remembered with great affection.

Steven Fiske MD

September 26, 2023

I was a medical student at NYU
Peter was my Resident
As an intern at Bellevue I always knew Peter had my back when on call In the most overwhelming

elizabeth collings

September 24, 2022

Dr. Lefkow, I miss you, so dearly and think about you very often. I finally had my open-heart surgery, and you were with me. Thank you.

Michael DAntonio

September 24, 2020

Doctor Lefkow, I will never forget you great skills and excellent concern for your patients. You are sorely missed and I still carry your business card with me since then.
Rest In Peace
Michael D’Antonio

Michael D'Antonio

January 28, 2020

Peter, I still carry your business card with me to
remind me when I visited you at your office. You
were a great man.
Michael D'Antonio

Scottie Steinberg, RN

January 27, 2020

I was an RN at Bellevue ER around 1974
Peter was an intern I had a wonderful relationship with Peter and was more than a pleasure to work alongside of him
I just recently found out about his passing
God bless his family and grhs
Scottie Steinberg RN

Elizabeth Collings

October 12, 2018

Peter, here I am in the year 2018 and still thinking of you. I miss you so, so much.

Janet has passed - three years ago - and is buried close by where you are buried. In her last days, she did talk about you and said that she was not afraid of dying because she knew that she would see you then.

Love you both, always, Liz

Michael D'Antonio

June 28, 2018

I still carry his NYU card in my wallet to this day. He was a great doctor and a great man. He always made me feel good and safe. When he walked in to greet me, I always felt that he was a special man.
Michael D'Antonio

Michael D'Antonio

November 20, 2010

Dr.Lefkow,
Thinking about you, a doctor who really cared about his patients. Rest in peace.
Mike D'Antonio

Harriet Helberg (nee Birnbaum)

November 19, 2010

My Sister, Marlene dated Peter in the late sixties and they met through his sister, Susan, who I went to Lawrence High School with.I'm not sure why I asked Marlene about Peter tonight, but she told me he passed away and although it's been over 40 years, I'm shocked and saddened.
To Susan and the rest of Peter's loving family, I offer my condolences. I only knew him briefly that summer of '68 but after reading the preceding Guest Book entries, I am moved and sorry I did not get to know him better. If by any chance, Susan, his sister, reads this entry, please contact me (thru Facebook or look me up in Malibu Directory) May he rest peacefully.

Leonard Amore

December 25, 2009

Dr. Lefkow did so much for both the families of my wife and myself.

We are deeply saddened by his passing and we offer our condolences to his family and all who loved him.

Carol Ann and Len Amore

Ashley Lazo

July 28, 2009

Doctor Lefkow has made a profound impact on my life. My mother, Nuria, had worked with him as long as I could remember. Some of my earliest memories are of going to the office with my mother. As a young child, I sorted his mail for him and watched him and my mother care for their patients. I always looked foward to going to the office with my mom. He always told her that my brother and I were destined for great things and he cared for us. They were a great team and he has always helped my mother with my brother and I. He was passionate about his what he did and he was a strong figure in my life. He never forgot about my brother and I on the holidays and we were always thankful. It has been almost a year since he has passed and I still miss him greatly. I think of him frequently and I'm thankful to have had such a kind person in my life.

Stewart Schwartz

July 7, 2009

I was deeply saddened to learn of Peter's passing. I met Peter at Bally's Gym in Yonkers in the 1990's. I learned quickly that he was committed to his patients - taking calls from interns on how best to proceed. If you asked him about a health problem, he would take the time to answer you. Peter lived up to Maimondes' vision of what a doctor should be.
Stewart Schwartz

Corrine Helenius

December 29, 2008

To the family and friends of Dr. Lefkow and to his incredible sidekick Nuria - I know this entry is late, but it is the first time that I have heard of Dr. Lefkow's passing. I am so completely shocked. Peter was my doctor for 15 plus years and what a great and caring Doctor he was. I recently looked him up to have a follow up visit as I will be returning to NY for a week next month. When I moved to California I never found a doctor quite like Peter and there has been a void, so I thought I'd do my annual checkup with him. Going on line to look up the phone number, I came across his obit. I cried. I will miss him. His office, where we met after each physical to review what I was supposed to do, was decorated with tons of pictures and mementos of a life well lived and a true academician and family man. My heartfelt sympathy to his family and to Nuria. Sincerely, Cory (Corrine) Helenius - formerly NYC, now Palm Desert CA.

Jerry Colaluca

December 1, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

David Brown

November 16, 2008

I met Peter in the summer of 1964, we were both taking a speed reading class at NYU in preparation for beginning our college experience. As it turns out we both were headed to the University of Pennsylvania that fall. His infectious personality was apparent immediately. We both struggled with the process but trusted that it would be of value. We reconnected as freshmen and developed a special bond that I feel Peter had with many people. He was known as Kow in those days. My extended friendships through him comprised an interesting group. We shared one class, freshman chemistry, and then had discussions on organic chemistry later. His determination and discipline was so strong that it affected the way I approached my time at Penn. It certainly affected my path in life. We were roommates senior year and Peter continued to work hard in all his classes. He wanted to go to medical school but really only one program interested him - NYU. He applied to some 20+ medical schools. Once he had been accepted at NYU he withdrew his application at the three programs that had not yet made a decision. He had not received a rejection. Many people knew then what potential he had. I went to California to continue my education and my life was there until this past spring when I retired to Connecticut. Reading the remembrances posted here demonstrate what a special person he became. The people he touched thoughout his life have and will touch others in important ways. He will be remembered through the lives of others.

Philip Small

November 6, 2008

My condolences to the Lefkow family. I didn't know Dr. Lefkow for a long time..just a short three years or so, but in that time he effectively saved my life and made a lasting impression. After my first visit in mid 2005 he called to tell me that my cholesterol levels were fine but that my white count was ever so slightly elevated..essentially high normal. I shouldn't worry. He sent me to a friend..a hemotologist who ran some tests. In a word, I was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia which Dr Lefkow astutely picked up on when it was barely perceptible. I think most doctors would have let it slide. About six months later I went to see the doctor. That was while he was being treated for his cancer. I last saw him five months or so ago and he was upbeat and seemed to being doing well. I'm in remission thanks to Dr. Lefkow's early diagnosis, but I've certainly learned how fragile life is. I wish I could have done for him what he did for me.

Beth Hoffman

October 22, 2008

I was very lucky to have Peter in my life for the past 7 years. The greatest gift he left to me is the friendship of his family that he loved so much. He was always so loving and compassionate about his family, friends and patients. His love and friendship will be in my heart forever. Love , Beth

Rachelle Goldberg

October 21, 2008

Peter,

I know these entries are intended for your family and all those who mourn your loss... but I believe that the soul is eternal, and that in fact, you too have read every word. And so, this one's solely for you.

The first time we spoke was July, 1995... Adin went straight from Erwin Kolodny's office to yours... thanks for taking him immediately; waiting would have been torture. After examining him and his test results, you called to assure me that his life wasn't threatened. I met you in your office the following week, the day of his first echo... you looked me in the eye and said, "He's a young guy with a wife and kids... I promise you I won't put him at risk."

That was thirteen years ago. I never saw nor spoke with you again until last year. However, you always sent Adin home with the following message: "Tell the boss you're fine." I knew that you knew what those words meant to me... that they were far more significant than just Adin coming home and relating your findings. It was directly from you to me... and somehow more reassuring. Thank you.

June, 2007, almost twelve years later, we met for the second time... also the day of an echo. I cried when you said everything was stable and I blurted out, "I worship him." Your response (directed to Adin) was, "Go take your lovely lady to dinner." I knew you understood that Adin is my life, and that since the day you and he met, I have hung on your every word.

And then, three months ago, July, 2008, Adin's next to last visit, and thirteen years since his first appointment, you sent him home with your final and greatest gift to me... "Tell the boss she's going to have you for another 20 to 30 years." And when Adin said, "That won't make her happy, she'll want to hear 30 to 40," you replied, "Okay, tell her 30 to 40." Despite everything you were facing... despite the fact that no one was assuring you another 20 to 40 years, you never lost your compassion for your patients and their families. You are only human, and so it would have been understandable if you had become impatient or even angry; but instead, in your endless compassion, you went to the other extreme! Knowing you would not be here to reassure me annually, you covered the next two to four decades... essentially the rest of my life! I know you are not G-d, and that there are no guarantees, but the feeling of peace you gave me was the greatest gift I have ever received.

I hope that you are at peace. As for rest... I know you are way too busy reenergizing, and keeping up with the demands put on guardian angels; What many of your patients don't know... they are still under your care.

Till we meet again,
Rachelle Goldberg

Pat Reilly

October 21, 2008

Peter was such a caring and loving friend to both Jim and myself. Spending time with Beth and Peter have been such a joy in our lives. I will never forget the wonderful times the four of us spent together. My condolenseces to your family and Beth. We will miss you.

Russell Gilbert

October 20, 2008

Dr. Peter Lefkow has been my family physician for as long as I can remember. He saved my father's life when i was seventeen years old and after that as soon as i stopped seeing my pediatrician, i became his patient. He help me through some of the most difficult times in my life personally when i was younger dealing with substance abuse and depression that i was suffering from as a result of my family's situation.

He convinced me at a critical point in my life to seek help, otherwise i might not be around myself. So i feel as though myself and my entire family owe our lives to this man and a debt that we can never repay. His legacy is of a doctor not only who practiced medicine but a person who practiced family care. i say that not in any clinical sense of the word, but more as one human being having such compassion for others to care about what happens to them. This will be a legacy that i'm sure has been be passed down to his students. He was always there for us, and now our lives will be a little more empty without him.

My deepest condolences to his family, Nuria, and his friends at this time.

John Gilbert

October 20, 2008

Peter Lekow has been my doctor for more than 28 uears. I considered him a friend, and he always treated me as such. He saved my life on more than one occasion, and he has been a guide and mentor with regard to my well-being.

Dr. Lefkow was a magnificent gentleman. He was a caring, astute practioner who represented his profession with the deepest regard and commitment. He was a wonderful man who appreciated and honored my family and helped to steer my son's formative years and always helped and stood by us through difficult times.

Nuria is also in my thoughts. She is always such a beautiful presence who has enhanced our experiences and relations with Dr. Lefkow. She is as solid as bedrock and formed such a firm foundation to Dr. Lefkow's practice.

The depth of this loss of someone so grand and purposeful makes an indelible mark in the universe. This was a man for all seasons who changed every life he touched. The world is all the better for his presence... and we all know the emptiness of his passing from us.

Robert Toback

October 20, 2008

I am overwhelmed with sadness after learning today about the death of Dr. Peter Lefkow. He was a man who literally saved my life when I was diagnosed with my heart problem in 1990. At that time I was a young man of 27 and thought I was indestructible. During that time Dr. Lefkow was more than a doctor to me, he was a confidante and friend. I like to think that he paid special attention to me at that time before my surgery but over the years I have learned that he treated ALL his patients that way. In recent years he took an interest in problems I was having in my marriage and was willing to listen and offer advice. He truly was a MENSCH. My sympathies go out to his family and the NYU community.

Ken Jones

October 13, 2008

It is hard for me to imagine going to another Dr. after knowing Peter. We are the same age and I just thought, of course that he would always be here to nurture me through my heart problems. He saved me from 2 bad experiences in Florida and I would always fly back here to see Peter from whereever I was living at the time. He and Nuria were such a good team and you always knew you could trust them.
May the angles comfort you now as you gave comfort to so many.

Michael D'Antonio

October 10, 2008

My condolences to the family of Dr. Peter Lefkow. I was a patient of his for a few years and was thoroughly shocked today when I called to make an appointment to see him and Nuria said that he had passed away. I liked him very much and respected him greatly. He was a fine doctor, really concerned about my well being, both caring and friendly. I am very sad today.

Nuria Lazo

October 6, 2008

peter lefkow was a great friend to me over the years. it was a pleasure to have worked for him for the last 12 years. i will be forever grateful for his support, teaching, generosity, and kindness. he will be greatly missed.
love, Nuria, Ashley, Noel, & Rocky.

Robin Lauezzari

October 6, 2008

I am deeply saddened to lose a very decent human being and a caring personal physician. Peter you were a true gentleman and you will be sorely missed.

Sid Frommer

October 6, 2008

I knew Peter from our Metro-North commuting as well as from La Manda Restaurant. Peter was a gentle and funny guy. He was a pleasure to be with. He was always willing to help if you needed a lift or advice. He will be sorely missed.

Stanley Schonbach

October 5, 2008

I was a NYU Medical School Classmate of Peter's (Class of '72). He was the most popular student in our class and was elected class president.He was liked and respected by all. He offered his friendship to every fellow student.
I share in your loss.

martin greenberg

October 5, 2008

My parents were devoted patients of Dr. Peter Lefkow. They called him their "gardian angel". He cared for them for well over thirty years. They each reached the age of 95+. They credited their longevity and quality of life to his exceptional care.

Michele Smith

October 3, 2008

Dr Lefkow saved my life on many levels. After my heart attack, he was the ONLY one (doctor or otherwise) who got my attention and convinced me that things were going to be okay. When I would go to see him, I felt like he was my doctor, not just THE doctor.His direct NY style of doctoring was a welcome relief from all the other doctors I had dealt with. He will be greatly missed. We lost a good one here on the planet - hope they appreciate him up there !!!

Nuria - how great a team Dr Lefkow and you were. Always there to care. God bless both of you.

Jerry Muldoon

October 3, 2008

I am still in a state of disbelief that this good, down to earth man who was so generous with his time and talent is gone. I will miss you greatly Peter.

Jim Kennedy

October 2, 2008

A man of honor and integrity, his loss saddens the legions who have been his friend.

Milton Polinsky

October 2, 2008

As one of his patients for 25 years, I will miss him. I feel like I have lost an old friend.

Andrew Brucker

October 2, 2008

The Brucker family send its condolonces to the Lefkow family.

Lynn Fishkind

October 1, 2008

Dear Charlotte and Susan,
I want to extend my sincere sympathy. Although I haven't seen Peter since we were kids, its clear that he was deeply loved and respected.

Pamela Hiscox

October 1, 2008

The Lefkow Family, Loved Ones, and Dear Friends,

I am so very sorry and sad - there are no words at this time to express my deepest sympathy for all of you.

As a member of NYU for 27 years, we were all friends and colleagues and worked together so hard and shared so many experiences - ones that can never be replaced.

Peter was the devoted and committed MD - always giving of himself and caring for his family, friends, and patients. He cared for and loved them so dearly.

He will truly be missed, and we will always remember him with such fondness.

This is a heartfelt loss personally, professionally, and to the medical community.

Sincerely,

Pamela Jane Hiscox, Ph.D., R.N.

Joseph Camillo

October 1, 2008

Our sincerest sympathy to Dr. Lefkows family
He was a wonderful friend and great Doctor for more then 20 years.
He will truly be missed.
Sincerely,
Shirley and Joseph Camillo

Adin Goldberg

September 30, 2008

Peter was my doctor for the past 13 years. Beneath a gruff exterior was a deeply caring and dedicated physician. His top priority was his patients' well-being. Thank you, Peter, for your devotion, skill, and concern. My sincere condolences to Peter's family and to his devoted and wonderful nurse, Nuria.

Karen Aisenberg

September 30, 2008

It is with great sorrow to learn of the passing of Dr. Peter Lefkow. I was his patient for ten years and not only respected his professional expertise but loved him for the very special person he was. A mensch the likes of Dr. Lefkow comes along once in a lifetime. The world will be a much sadder place without him.
My heartfelt condolences to his entire family and to dear Nuria. I will truly miss him.
Karen Aisenberg

Joe Yee

September 30, 2008

Peter and I were coincidental patients at the NYU Cancer during his radiation treatments in Nov 2006 and I share your sadness with his passing. May his legacy live with all of us at NYU in his memory.
Joe Yee, NYU '74 Radiology

Ken Katz

September 30, 2008

Dr Lefkow was the cardiologist to my father-in-law Morris Rosoff. His care was that special kind of medicine that they do not teach in school. He convinced us to have the bypass he had 7 years ago and it has given my father-in-law a new lease on life. The ongoing care and his particitpation in the healing process will be sadly missed.

Elayne McKenna & Carl DeVivo

September 30, 2008

Peter Lefkow was an incredible doctor, and a warm, kind and compassionate human being. He was more our friend than our physician, and was always there for us. We mourn Peter's passing and express our heartfelt condolences to his family.

Carol Berger

September 30, 2008

I went to school with Peter and lived down the street from him in Woodmere. A friend forwarded his obituary and I was very saddened by it. I really liked and respected him. He was one of the smartest kids in our class and one of the nicest. I am so sorry for your loss. I wish I had known him as an adult. It sounds as if he really made a mark on this world for many people.
Sincerely,
Carol Berger (Rockland County, NY)

David Yong

September 30, 2008

Dr. Lefkow was a great doctor and friend. I always appreciated his NY-style candor and common sense advice. I will miss him dearly and will remember him very fondly.

I offer my deepest condolences to his family and his great sidekick nurse, Nuria.

Thans for taking care of my health over the past 13 years, Dr. Lefkow.

ELIZABETH COLLINGS

September 30, 2008

My condolence to the family of Dr. Peter Lefkow. I was a patient of Dr. Peter Lefkow for thirty years. I considered him not only my doctor but a good friend. He has seen me through many serious illnesses and if it weren't for his compassion and skilled craftmanship, I can honestly say, I would not be here today. He was one of the finest man I've ever known. I love you Peter. I know that one day our paths will cross again, but until then, have a good rest. Love you, Liz Collings, New York

Ronnie Schultz

September 30, 2008

I knew Peter for 29 years. He was my cardiologist. I met him when I was 23 years old. His caring, his devotion, loyalty and expertise will be missed by me and so many of his patients who respected and loved him as a doctor/friend. Peter not only treated my heart issues but he looked at me as an entire person and cared very much about what happened to me and my quality of life. As a cardiologist- he will be missed. I can only imagine how those close to him- family, friends are mourning his loss. My sincere sympathy to Peter's Mom (who he often spoke of to me) his three daughters (who I met through the years) and his sister Susan.
It is a loss we all feel.
Peter shall be remembered in our hearts forever.

Sincerely,
Ronnie Schultz

Ronnie Schultz

September 30, 2008

A doctor and friend of 29 years- truly will be missed.
My sincere sympathy to those who know and loved Peter. A loss personally, professionally and to the NYU community.

Phylliss, Jerry, Shirley and Bert (Goldstein, Posner)

September 30, 2008

JERRY AND PHYLLISS GOLDSTEIN
BERT AND SHIRLEY POSNER
The Goldstein, Posner family (Nudelman) will truly miss such a dedicated man. We feel that our parents lived so long due to his dedication. He laughed with our father and till recently always spoke fondly of them. We had looked forward to a long and healthy lifestyle with him. He will be truly missed. He will be in our prayers.

margaret ryan - collings

September 30, 2008

Please accept our deepest sympathy through with difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lefkows' family. Dr. Peter Lefkow will be missed. Keep the faith and God bless.

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