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ARTHUR CERF Obituary

Arthur Zander Cerf October 16, 1918 - June 10, 2012 Passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Preceded in death by the love of his life, his dear wife Shirley Cerf. Survived by his children, son Lawrence and his wife Susan Cerf, daughter Suzanne and her husband Andrew Colvin, son Daniel and his wife Robin Cerf. Loving Grandfather to Matt and his wife Jessica Colvin, Michael Colvin, Jordan Cerf, Bradley Cerf and Josh Cerf, and Great-grandfather to Lev and Shai Colvin. Arthur was a gifted and devoted physician, adored by his patients and admired by his colleagues. His geriatric medical practice evolved over time as he and his patients aged together. His professional career spanned over 60 years of delivering care as compassionately as possible. He was often referred to as "the physician's physician". Even after retiring from private practice, Arthur continued for many years serving those in need as the Medical Director of Central Gardens Convalescent Hospital, where he spent his final days, attended to by a grateful and caring staff, many of whom he had trained and mentored. Arthur was a second generation San Franciscan, a graduate of Lowell High School, the University of California at Berkeley, UCSF Medical School and a veteran of World War II, all of which helped mold him to be the remarkable man that he was. He had an inspiring zest for life, and unfailing devotion and love for his family. Arthur always had an ear available for anyone in need and was never too busy for his family. He will be greatly missed and always remembered as a wise and caring man. His passing leaves a large gap in the lives of everyone he touched. A memorial service is scheduled for Wednesday, June 20 at 2:00 p.m. at Congregation Emanu-El. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to Central Gardens for its Physical and Occupational Therapy Programs, 1355 Ellis St., San Francisco 94115.

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

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Jun. 11 to Jun. 13, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
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Victoria SkellCerf

February 16, 2018

Art was my father-in-law in the 1970's and was my first medical mentor. He allowed me to work in his office and to shadow him on his rounds at the hospital. He gave me my first glimpse of the world of medicine from the doctor's perspective. His unfailing kindness and respectfulness shaped my many years of practice. He was also a great dad and husband, even if he always had to work! One of the great ones!

June 15, 2012

"Dr. Cerf was my most favorite doctor ever. I hold so many kind and dear memories of a special doctor and friend."
Evelyn Moore (Galt, CA,)

June 15, 2012

"Dr. Cerf was my most favorite doctor ever. I hold so many kind and dear memories of a special doctor and friend."
Evelyn Moore (Galt, CA,)

Muriel Truett

June 13, 2012

Gus and I were patients a long time ago when Dr. Cerf had his practice near Mt. Zion Hospital. A great doctor and friend when you needed him. With condolences to his family and friends. Gus and Muriel Truett - Petaluma, CA

George Pohley

June 12, 2012

Dr. Cerf was our family Doctor for many years. I always felt that he was a friend to all of us. You could talk to him about anything and he always made the time to listen. He was a wonderful Doctor and will be missed by many.

Shawn Singleton

June 12, 2012

I was lucky enough to be his patient but even more fortunate to be his friend. I will always remember his kind words of encouragement as I started down my own road as a physician. I am forever grateful for him.

Nancy Kuhn

June 11, 2012

Art Cerf was a mensch. Friends with my dad since their CAL days when Art was courting the lovely Shirley, I have known him my whole life-took care of all of us at one time or another. Helped me through some tough times. Rest in peace, dear Arthur Z. Cerf, you will never be forgotten.

Arthur (right) with his brother, Alan.

Dawn Cerf

June 11, 2012

I adored my uncle-in-law, as did everyone who knew him. With soulful eyes and overflowing compassion, Arthur made everyone feel special, as if he wanted nothing better than to be engaged in a shared conversation with you. He was a truly gentle and caring man, and I will miss him.

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