Jan. 18, 1947 - Feb. 21, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our loving husband, father, father-in-law, and grandfather, Raúl Berdichevsky.
Born in Santiago, Chile, Raúl studied medicine and, shortly before graduating, would meet his future wife of 53 years, Matilde Lekanda. They arrived in Canada as refugees after fleeing Chile in the wake of the military coup in 1973.
Raúl became a psychiatrist in Canada and worked at The Wellesley Hospital, St. Michael’s Hospital and in private practice. Raúl was also a long-time volunteer at the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture.
He had a lifelong commitment to mental health and human rights.
His dedication went beyond his profession. He was a loyal friend and mentor, and a source of wisdom and calm to many. His interest in world politics and his enjoyment of art, literature, food, music, the cosmos, etc., made him a formidable conversationalist.
Raúl loved to come up with beautiful, vivid stories for his children. His three grandchildren — Mila (León and Laura), Tassia and Paskal (Katia) — brought out his goofy qualities. He was witty with children and adults alike, and had a hilariously awkward (often dark) sense of humour.
His quiet force, kindness, intellect and unwavering moral compass will be deeply missed, but never forgotten by all those he touched.
Donations may be made to the Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care, the Palliative Care Unit at Sunnybrook Hospital, the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture or the Canadian Centre for Refugee & Immigrant Healthcare.
Descansacen Paz Raúl/papá/Abi. Te amaremos siempre.