R. Lehman

R. Norman Lehman A giant personality and bright light in so many circles, R. Norman Lehman, DDS died May 16, 2010, at the age of 75. Dentist to San Francisco's famous, a talented creative writer, a dedicated clothes horse, raconteur, lover of the arts and friend to an eclectic mix of people, his style will be missed. From his early days in San Francisco, driving his '50's vintage Mercedes Cabriolet around Nob Hill, to his last days, when he retired from dentistry, he was still holding court a la Sherman Billingsley. Norman was a highly skilled cosmetic dentist, often taking hours to fashion the perfect but "not too perfect" smile. Many of the Who's Who of San Francisco owe their smiles to Dr. Lehman. The mosaic of his practice included people from all walks of life -politicians, philanthropists, admen, gallery owners, doctors, lawyers, architects, impresarios, members of the judiciary and old friends from his early years in Berkeley. To many famous and emerging artists he was the dentist who would trade his exquisite dentistry for their equally exquisite art. Dr. Lehman was raised in Columbus, Ohio. He attended St. Charles Preparatory School and Ohio State University for both undergraduate and dental school. He served in the U. S. Navy, perhaps because he liked their uniform the best, and then came home to the city of his heart- San Francisco- where he practiced dentistry for 40 years, with his loyal dental assistant, Juanita. His favorite office was at the Musto Plaza building at 350 Pacific Avenue. It was designed in l973 by Berkeley architect Michael Siegel as a showplace for the art and antiques Norman loved. It was once featured in Architectural Digest magazine. Norman was a force in the contemporary history of Baghdad by the Bay. From the beat generation haunts-think Banducci's and Cafe Tosca-he knew their colorful owners and the cast of characters of each. The opera, the symphony, local theatres, the top eateries-and wearing Wilkes Bashford haberdashery-Norman was there. Or, you might find him on the 30 Stockton bus, impeccably dressed, wearing his famous brown suede Italian shoes! He loved travel, dancing, martinis and fine chardonnays. He also loved writing and participated in the directing and staging of one of his plays at ACT. Later in life he completed a novel, wrote poetry, lyrics, treatments for movies and television, and authored some memorable letters. He is survived by his brother, Jim, and sister, Marianne Brown of Ohio. His son, Christopher, and wife Michelle live in Orinda with Norman's adored grandchildren, Jackson, Madison and Sara . Another son, Jay, resides in Emeryville. He was near to his sons during his final illness and was watched over lovingly by them. He especially treasured his beloved partner and companion, Marilyn Ersepke, a native San Franciscan. They were a glamorous couple who brought great joy to one another. To the end, Norman was of good humor, loved visits and long, long lunches with friends, and did it all still looking as if he stepped from the pages of GQ. A special San Francisco character will be greatly missed. There will be a celebration of Dr. Lehman's life on June 16 at Pier 23 from 2-5. All are welcome.