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Dr. Howard Liebgold Obituary
Dr. Howard Barry Liebgold, 80, of Lincoln, CA., passed away Aug. 15. Dr. Liebgold was born Oct. 7, 1932, in New York, to Sidney and Ann Liebgold.
All his life, Dr. Liebgold excelled, and his accomplishments began at Fairfax High, where he played 3rd base and pitcher, and graduated in 1950. During his UCLA college years, he earned Phi Beta Kappa honors along with his AA and BA degrees, was in ROTC for three years; First Lieutenant of his Rifle team; on the rowing team, and pitched for Junior Varsity. He was President of his 3rd year class, at UC Medical School, and performed his residency at UCSF, until earning his M.D.
During his 43 year career at Kaiser Permanente, Vallejo, he was the Chief of Kaiser Federation Rehabilitation Center (KFRC), and also the Chief of the Chronic Pain/TMJ/Acupuncture clinics.
Affectionately known as Dr. Fear, Dr. Liebgold was most renowned for teaching Phobias classes and workshops (Phobease) for 25 years in California and throughout the country, helping to cure over 10,000 people of their Anxiety and OCD. In 1991, he was elected California's Rehabilitation Physician of the Year. A Professional Lecturer at the Commonwealth Club in San Francisco and the Million Round Table in Toronto, and Author of nine books, Dr. Liebgold was a National Expert on Phobias, appearing on the Oprah Winfrey show, BBC, Unsolved Mysteries, Evening Magazine and The Doctors.
Howard (Howie) was also known for being a marathon runner, a competitive weight lifter and tennis player. With his wife Carol Rose, they won multiple dance championships in ball room and tap. Making people laugh was his specialty and was particularly known around Sun City for his Richard Simmons performance in the talent show. Recently he was most proud of his All Star team and being MVP in his Senior Softball team.
He is survived by his wife, Carol Laverne Zampa (Rose) of 25 years, their children Michele, Gregg, Stephanie and David; his son-in-law Eddie; their grandchildren Wayne (Cara), Nathan and Justin; great granddaughter Aubrey; his sister Teddi, and his former wife Sandy Brooks.
Dr. Liebgold was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law Lynette, and his son Mark.
A private service will be held in his honor, for his family and friends.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Dr. Howard Liebgold
David Green
August 15, 2025
Another year has past since I discovered your books. I´m so far ahead in life now, compared to where I was before I found your books. I owe you and I´m truly grateful for you. Anytime I talk to someone struggling with anxiety or panic attacks I tell them about the marshmallows. "Panic attacks are no more dangerous, then dropping large marshmallows on your bare feet." God bless you Dr Liebgold, you and your family.
David Green
August 15, 2024
"Panic attacks are no more dangerous than dropping large marshmallows on your bare feet." I have shared this saying to countless people dealing with anxiety or panic. Your teachings live on Dr.
David Redmond
December 10, 2022
I was one of Dr. Liebgold's physiatry residents. On his 50th birthday, he ran around the parking lot 50 times. He was full of wisdom and advice. In Rehab Medicine, patients are often frustrated, angry, confused, anxious, etc. His psychological insights were amazing, and he empowered his residents with the tools to lessen the suffering as patients adjusted to disabilities such as the paralysis of stroke and spinal cord injury. I still use his advice in everyday life. Thank you, Dr. Liebgold.
David Green
April 9, 2021
I have 40 pages left to read of, Freedom From Fear. I decided to Google Dr. Liebgold. To see who the man is, that is responsible for my curing of panic attacks. I'm saddened to read of his passing. I wish I could write a letter or send an email, explaining how grateful I am, for him.
Forever grateful
David C. Green
Paul Krow
August 15, 2020
I was Doc's manager in the LHSSL many times. I always chose Doc because he never gave less than 100% and was fun to have on our teams. Once in a while while at the field I will see something that reminds ,e of Doc and I have to sit down and just smile. Great memories. Wew miss you Doc. Paul Krow
David Truax
August 12, 2014
Howard Liebgold's books and videos put my wife on the path to healing after years of horrible suffering. Thank You for your husband.
Maria Dunn
July 1, 2014
I am so sad to read about Dr. L's passing. I will surely miss his kind heart.
Louisa Hufstader
June 19, 2014
Thanks to Dr. Liebgold for helping me to save my own life and start anew. I will never forget him and I am glad he heard me say that my Phob-Ease certificate is as meaningful to me as my Harvard diploma.
robert furukawa
April 1, 2014
Dr. Howard Liebgold was a great teacher, who helped so many children and adults deal with fear, OCD, and related issues. His classes were lucid, concise and taught with humor! Dr. Fear will be sorely missed!
March 9, 2014
Dr. Liebgold, I am missing you so much. Thank you for helping me. I will make you proud, you will see.
Claudette Bergman
January 26, 2014
I am saddened to learn of dr. Liebgold's passing. He was a wonderful,warm human being who helped countless people through his classes, book, and personal interactions. I am grateful for having experienced him. And will continue to share hsis wise words in his book with my clients.
I am sorry for your loss.
Shoshana Nurik
January 18, 2014
I was very sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Liebgold. I will forever be grateful for the change he brought not only to my son's life but also to mine as his support person. Whenever I have to face a challenge "my boo" as he called it, I ask myself all the basic questions he taught us to focus on and realize I can handle it. Because he taught me to face edges and slopes, I have been able to travel to places and explore areas I otherwise would have have skipped. I am so much stronger thanks to him. The world lost a very special person.
Al & Carol Witten
October 27, 2013
Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of this wonderful neighbor. We enjoyed his presentations and the valuable advice he shared with us all.
Chuck Pope
September 23, 2013
Very sorry to hear of Dr. Liebgold's passing. He gave me to the tools to free myself from anxiety. He saved helped save my life. He was a blessing to so many and will be greatly missed.
September 6, 2013
My life is great now and I owe my success to Dr. "Fear." Just knowing he he was in the world had a very calming effect on me. He will never be forgotten. gordon
Amelia Benko
September 3, 2013
Dear Carol and family, I am so sad to hear of Howard's passing. I remember his sense of humor - the bit about the District Mtg. patches comes to mind. Hope all else is well with you.
September 1, 2013
I am very sorry to learn of Dr. Liebgold's passing. His presentation at a workshop sponsored by the International Paruresis (Shy Bladder) Association back in 2000 was inspirational. He contributed a great deal to educating people about recovering from this type of social anxiety condition.
Paul Krow
August 30, 2013
Whether he was playing softball or being the first person in line for any Player's show or Tap Company show, Howard always had a smile on his face.
I selected him to play for my softball team many times because he was a great teammate who gave everything he had for the team. AND...those green shoes always won over the hearts of his teammates.
His loyalty to the theater and Carol's dancing was not to be outdone. He saw every show she was in at least the maximum times she performed.
He also loved a funny email joke that would always make me smile.
I'm gonna miss him a lot.
Paul
August 28, 2013
Dear Carol,
I am so very sorry to hear about Howard's passing. I am so very honored to have known him, and you, from our tap dancing days in Pleasant Hill! We had quite a wonderful group, didn't we?! And I was doubly blessed to have been able to type a couple of his Phobease books. He made such a difference in so many lives. You and your family are in my prayers and thoughts. Howard was: "ONE . . . SINGULAR SENSATION!!" I still remember a couple of the tap steps . . . and Howard's wonderful written notes!
Love,
Alexis Friedhaber
Ramellia Johnson
August 27, 2013
He will be greatly missed by many patients who was blessed by this great man's work. I was blessed by going to one of his chronic pain classes and he asked me to stay around after the class and he said to me "Dear heart I've met many patients with pain but yours is real"! He gave me cassette tapes and booklets and told not to return because he recognized the Pain! I had to say he will be missed and forever remembered for his great work.
Bonnie Jean Collins
August 26, 2013
Thank you Dr. Liebgold for making the phobease monster go away for me! YOU helped me to have a life again free of fears! Rest in Peace Sir.
Mary Carll
August 26, 2013
My prayers and deepest condolences go out to Dr. Liebgold's Family. He was my son's doctor when he was an infant, such a dedicated and caring man. You will be missed by so many. RIP
Lynda Pooler
August 25, 2013
What a sweet, kind, caring man with a smile on his face always. He was a big supporter of all our shows, the first in line, and always in the front row with a big smile for Carol and the rest of us. He wasn't shy about being on the stage himself with his colorful costumes. He will be greatly missed! My thoughts are with you Carol and hope that your family, and your family of friends will get you through this. Love to you.
Linda Morse
August 23, 2013
Dr.Liebgold was one of most wonderful man I have ever know and work with he will be miss.
August 23, 2013
Carol and family:
In reading all the wonderful comments about Howard, I'm sorry I didn't get to know him. I'm so sorry for your loss, but hang onto the wonderful years/memories you shared. I remember his infectious smile/grin at all the shows when he (and you) supported us all. God bless you and your family at this difficult time. Corrine Ehlers
Dolly Schumacher James
August 23, 2013
What a wonderful man!! Always smiling, with a welcoming hug. Heaven will be blessed with his presence, as he makes the angels smile. Blessing to you dear Carol. May your memories sustain you.
Peggy Smith
August 23, 2013
My deepest sympathy and condolences to you Carol and the family . I worked with Dr. Liebgold for along time . He has left a wonderful legacy . He has helped may people in this world . He will be missed by all . Hugs and love to you and your family . Always a Friend, Peggy Smith
Linda Sue Hansen
August 23, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time
Gregg
August 23, 2013
I was asked about donations - ARF and Field Haven Feline Rescue in Lincoln were two of his favorite charities.
Pam Parker
August 23, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Carol.
Jim/La Donna Jones
August 22, 2013
Howard was a wonderful presence in our community and a perfect example of what's right about life! Carol, it is certainly a sad time for you....just remember that you are loved....
August 22, 2013
Carol,
On behalf of all your Soroptimist Sisters in Lincoln, I am sending our deepest sympathy and condolences to you and your family regarding the passing of Howard. I shall always remember the two of you beautifully dancing the night away at several Orchard Creek events. May all your wonderful memories bring you peace and comfort. Gay Sprague, President of SI-Lincoln on behalf of our entire Club.
Bobbi Enderlin
August 22, 2013
I knew Howard as "Dr. Fear" - he came and spoke to our Soroptimist club many years ago, and everyone still remembers him! Dear Carol, please find solace in your wonderful memories and know you have lots of Soroptimist friends that are here for you. Hugs,
Bobbi Enderlin
August 22, 2013
There is a big space that can never be filled by anyone except Howard's spirit. I am privileged to have known this kind and loving man.
Carol I hope the love of friends and family will reach out and hug you.
Frances Swanson
David Rich
August 22, 2013
Howard was what makes living in Lincoln so special -- terrific people. He lit up the softball field with his infectious smile and added so much to our "Snake" presentations with his knowledge, his humor, and his incomparable sense of style. The world was brighter because of his presence, and those who knew and loved him have lost a wonderful part of our lives. RIP Dr. Fear.
Catherine Burns
August 22, 2013
May you find solace in the memories of great and goodtimes, as you go through the lonely times.
Charlene Stamps
August 22, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. I had the opportunity of meeting Howard several years ago and enjoyed talking with this bright man; he shared his humorous wit.
Howard cruise to Alaska 2004
Susan Joyce
August 22, 2013
Dear Carol and Family...The world has lost a great human being and heaven is rejoicing at his arrival. Howard truly lived a great life, an exemplary life on all levels and touched the lives of more people than many of us could ever imagine. He will be so very missed. I feel honored to have known him, to have been his friend and to have been in his presence and to have been blessed by so many things he shared especially phobia healing. His sense of humor and positive nature were exceptional blessings. Carol,may you and your family find comfort and peace and joy in so many fond memories of the life you shared together...I know Howard would add his own Amen to that.
Hugs, Love, Prayers and support,
Susan Joyce
August 22, 2013
I worked with Dr. Liebgold as his office nurse at KPMG in Vallejo in the early 70's. Not only was he excellent with his patients but a great teacher to me. My thoughts go out to his family.
Virginia Evensen
August 21, 2013
Dr. Liebgold was the most wonderful doctor I ever worked for. I spent 10 years in his dept. He was the best with his patients. My sympathy to his family.
Janice Moore
August 21, 2013
I was one of Dr. Liebgolds patience in the 1990's, he was a wonderful person ,man and Dr. he helped me through a rough time in my life. R.I.P. Dr.Libegold
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