REICH--Dr. Robert (Bob), a psychiatrist who treated patients in his Upper East Side and Great Neck practices and a clinical assistant professor at Mt. Sinai Medical School, died on Monday at 79. Born in Montreal, he attended McGill University, edited The McGill Daily, and earned his M.D. at the University of Saskatchewan, where he met Mary, his wife of 54 years. As head of Psychiatry for the New York City Welfare Department under Mayor Koch, he waged a prescient fight against the impending homeless crisis. His patients ranged from celebrities to the indigent, and he was deeply committed to each one as an individual. A broad smile and a winning sense of humor told you instantly that you were in the presence of someone who would sympathetically take the full measure of your being. His stamina was superhuman; he worked long hours and still made himself available round the clock until the day he entered the hospital. His involvement was uncommonly broad, running from child to geriatric, from drugs and talk therapy, to being a pioneer in public psychiatry. Lover of hootenannies, Leadbelly, and opera; gourmet and wine connoisseur; tennis player and fan; magnanimous host and storyteller, Dr. Reich is survived by Mary, two children, Jim and Sharon, and three grandchildren. A funeral service will be held at Riverside North Chapel in Great Neck, on Friday, January 29, at 11:30 am.

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Published by New York Times on Jan. 28, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for ROBERT REICH

Sponsored by anonymous.

33 Entries

E. Hayes

March 14, 2020

I was a patient of Dr. Reich in 1995 while I was a college student. He was one of two outstanding psychiatrists in my lifetime who went way above and beyond for me during my 27 years and counting of dealing with complex emotional issues with a therapist. I vividly recall how he made me feel like his only patient, like a daughter really, and treated me with the utmost of compassion and honesty. He frequently called me from his home on nights and weekends when I was in crisis and I would not be here today if not for his selfless service. I went to email him today to thank him for his generosity of self and let him know of his dramatic impact on me and am saddened for his family to learn of his passing. He was a remarkable man and I am so grateful to have worked with him.

Max Worsham

January 2, 2018

Dr Reich is a wonderful man. I was a patient of his for the better part of a year. He made the most insightful observations into my life that I nor anyone else have ever noticed. Needless to say, he improved my life greatly through our 1 on 1 sessions. I was just thinking of calling him up today after 2 years of being out of touch only to learn that I no longer couldn't. He will be sorely missed.

J F

July 8, 2016

I was just thinking about Dr Reich and how he went above and beyond in helping my husband in his time of need - I almost couldn't believe it. He guided me through a very tedious and emotional process for both of us. He was patient and kind beyond words. I don't think - actually I know we could not have made it without him! He was the Attending Physician at an ER visit and it went from there.This was in 2010 and I couldn't believe a man his age had the energy to be in so many places and could do so much - he pushed me beyond my own limits to accomplish what few people can do without a team of professionals behind them. More than that he saved my Husband and I will be forever grateful. J.F.

Julie B.

June 6, 2016

I am deeply saddened and heartbroken of his passing. Dr. Recih was one of the most caring and kind men I have ever. When I was down, he was always there for me - he was my champion. I will miss him greatly and I feel blessed to have met him in my lifetime.

April 19, 2016

Joseph & Helen Rosenberg

He was an extremely nice man- always wanting to help others out.

Nicole Garcia

March 23, 2016

I just learned of Dr Reich's death and I am saddened by his loss. I was a patient of his for 6 years, he helped me through several tough periods in my life and I admired his dedication, humor and most of all his compassion. You will be missed

Raphael H

March 10, 2016

i was a patient of Dr Reich for about 2 years he tried to help me and most times succeeded so i was stunned to learn of his passing i will sorely miss you

Jordan B

March 8, 2016

You are sorely missed and I'll never forget you. Thank you.

Ploni Almoni

March 3, 2016

I had the gift of being his patient for about two years. His brilliance in the field was exceptional. He was willing to do anything he could to help me succeed. It was like the money was a byproduct of the session. I didn't feel rushed.God gives and God takes back. I am sure that he is reaping the real rewards now in Heaven for the kindness and kiddush hashem that he protruded in this world. Tehei neshmaso tzerurah bzror hachaim. Yehi Zicro Boruch.

Robert P.

February 11, 2016

Dr. Reich was more than a doctor, he was a humanitarian. He really cared deeply about his patients. He once called me from his home on a Sunday night...which is unheard of by other doctors. I will miss him and I will never forget how kind he was. RIP.

Melvyn Reichel

February 7, 2016

Me and my wife Caroline have been patients of Dr. Reich for over 15 years. He has helped us work out many problems. Dr. Reich was both smart and compassionate. My prayers go out to his family and we will always feel his loss; he will be missed.

Frank R.

February 5, 2016

FEBRUARY 5, 2016

I have been a patient of Doctor Robert Reich since 1996. First time I met him he won me over and made me feel at ease with his smile and kind demeanor.

Through all these past 19 years his true concern for the welfare of his patients was self evident and it felt very real.

He went out of his way to make sure that when an important issue that had kept you troubled for some time and now you had overcome it, that you have truly turned the page and everything was now OK and that your load was lighter and more manageable this he did consistently.

He was brilliant and insightful yet humble and kind and it came easily to him.

Back then when he suffered his accident he came back telling us not to worry that everything was going to be all right and for some time we felt everything indeed was going to be alright although he seemed to be in some sort of pain or discomfort I thought: maybe he came back too soon trying to help us like he always did but Dr. Reich, true to his oath, wouldn't have had it any other way.

Till the very last day I saw him he was the consummate practitioner always giving you his full attention I thought I might have noticed he was still in some sort of discomfort and I think he read it in my eyes and told me well you know it's still there - and left it at that.

I'll miss Doctor Reich my friend; I'll miss the kindness and wisdom he dispensed nonstop. He is in a better place now.
Sweet dreams Doctor Reich. Rest in Peace.

Jeffrey C

February 4, 2016

I was a patient of Dr. Reich's for the last five years. He helped me through a very difficult time in my life for which I will be forever grateful. He was a smart, compassionate man, with a good wit and an easy smile. I marveled at his stamina and work ethic in his 80's.

I am sure he will be terribly missed by his family, friends, and patients. RIP Dr. Reich.

janet savona

February 4, 2016

rip Dr Reich I will miss you

janet savona

February 3, 2016

Dr Reich will be greatly missed by me I have known him for 27 years a great doctor and a wonderful friend I am sure he is God's no 1 psychiatrist in heaven rip janet

Lena Porat

February 3, 2016

Dr. Reich was a kind, generous and insightful being and I am fortunate to have met him. We talked for a very short time but his humanity and common decency have stayed within me for these many years. Condolences to his family, loved ones and all those who spent any time with this very kind man.

Yan Chen

February 2, 2016

It shocked me to learn Dr. Reich has passed away. I feel so sad to lose a great man and doctor.

Dr. Reich was not only an excellent doctor, he was genuine human being. It is rare to find such great qualities.

Many years ago, my husband died and Dr. Reich accepted my son. He treated my son like his own. Every time my son visited him, he listened to him patiently always with compassion. Occasionally, my son did not have money. He told my son to not worry about the fee. Under his care and guidance, my son overcame many difficult times and learned many healthy habits.

It's hard to find a good doctor without paying a lot of money. My son was very lucky to meet Dr. Reich. We miss you Dr. Reich!

Dr. Reich will always live on in our hearts.

Our condolences to his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Shirley Braverman

February 1, 2016

On behalf of all who knew "Bobby" at Pripstein's Camp in Canada, I want to express my sadness and condolences to Mary and to his sons, whom we never knew. Bobby was a wonderful, compassionate counsellor and friend. He loved the children, had endless patience for those with problems, had a wonderful sense of humour. He was loved by all and after all these years we all still have fond memories of him. Our hearts go out to you. Sorkie (Shirley) Braverman, Montreal.Quebec,Canada.

Ingrid Sturgis

February 1, 2016

I feel so privileged to have known this very wise man. I shall miss him deeply. He was so very kind to me over a period of 29 years. His insight helped me to build a stable and functional life. My deepest sympathy to his wife, Mary, and his family.

Alec Magnet

January 31, 2016

I only knew Dr. Reich when I was a very young child, but I remember him to this day with vivid feelings of gratitude and affection and something like wonder. I offer my condolences to those who were close to him, and I celebrate his memory and the good that he did in the world.

Barbara Feinstein

January 31, 2016

Dr. Reich was a kind, caring human being. He always had time to listen to me day or night. I knew him for over 32 years and he never stopped being my friend and doctor. I will always miss him. My deepest condolences to his family.

Dana Kline

January 31, 2016

I was honored to have spent time with Dr Reich last summer. He gave me positive input that I will always remember ! I wish I could have known him earlier however, very thankful our paths crossed; it was meant to be. Will miss you, a lovely caring person.

January 30, 2016

My only regret is that I didn't know you longer. But I do have cherished memories of you. You were bigger than life. I will always love you. Susan

Judith Cohen

January 29, 2016

I will miss you my dear cousin.... I will always remember you for your kind and compassionate way..... My heart....condolences...and prayers go out to your family.. May they find comfort through this difficult time.... You will be dearly missed by all!

Paul Whalen

January 29, 2016

Robert Reich did more for me and my entire family than I can ever describe. Over the past 15 years, he has helped me with my legal practice, my marriage, my children, and my sobriety. Bobby was my doctor but I considered him a friend. He made time for me in his busiest of days and kept after me to make sure I was well beyond my health needs. He was a man of wisdom and humor. I miss him. Dr. Reich said that as a kid in Canada, whenever things were going to be tough, the coach told his hockey team to lace their skates tight. He taught me a lot about keeping the things that were important a priority and to weather some hard times. Thanks, Dr. Reich. I've gotten them laced tight.

January 28, 2016

January 28, 2016
Though we only got to meet Bob once, my husband and I knew right away he was a special person! Our thoughts and condolences go to the Family. Ken and Laura Wada, San Jose, California.

January 28, 2016

Dr. Reich was kind, caring and compassionate. A real mensch. He will be greatly missed by many.
Richard

January 28, 2016

It is with great sadness that I have learned of Dr. Reach's passing. I feel so lucky to have known this great man. With his brilliance, compassion and humor he has been a great mentor for me. His gift of story telling and humor were used to convey his teaching points. I loved listening to his critiques on restaurants, Broadway shows, movies and his vast knowledge in general. He was a very rare and genuine human being. I will miss him greatly. My condolences to his wife, children and grand children.
Susan

Bob Reich

Jim Reich

January 28, 2016

Robert Millstein

January 28, 2016

January 27, 2016
I have known Dr. Reich for almost a quarter of a century. It saddened me a great deal when I saw his health failing. Knowing him as I did, it made a difference in my life and I am sure in all the others who knew him. Most of all I shall miss his friendship, witticisms and stories. My condolences to his family and most of all to his wife.

Peter

January 28, 2016

Dr. Reich will be missed, may God bless and comfort all by means off prayers and memories, as he R.I.P

January 27, 2016

I have known Dr. Reich for over 15 years. He was smart, caring, and devoted to his patients, of whom I was one.
I extend my condolences, as well as my gratitude, to his family, on the loss of this wonderful man.
Patricia Salomone (Leonia, NJ)

Susan Healy

January 27, 2016

I have known Dr. Reich since 1989. He was one of the smartest, insightful, and caring Doctors and man that I have known. His sense of humor was wonderful as well. I have been saddened for months that he had been so ill. I hope he is at peace now. My condolences go out to his wife, children and grandchildren. He will surely be missed by me and by all the lives he touched.

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