Robert Alan
Mendelsohn, PhD
A Celebration of Life
Robert Alan “Bob” Mendelsohn, PhD
February 13, 1932–November 27, 2022
Family & friends will gather to share memories and celebrate Bob’s life at a reception on:
Saturday, June 3, 2023 from 11:00AM until 2:00PM
at
The Richard Mauthe Ecumenical Center
2418 Leon Bond Drive Green Bay, WI 54311
Located on the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Campus
Robert Alan Mendelsohn, PhD “Bob” Born to Harry Benjamin and Grace Natalie (nee Rosenberg) on February 13, 1932, Bob was raised in Brooklyn, New York. He passed peacefully surrounded by his loving family on November 27, 2022. Beloved husband of Sandra (nee Ledvina). Loving and devoted step-father and mentor to Beth Fitzgerald, J.R. (Lizette Salazar) Fitzgerald, John (Anne Geismann) Stelmach and Craig (Brenda Booth) Stelmach. Opa Bob was a special grandfather to Anton, Paul and Elisabeth Stelmach, Aidan Fitzgerald Lyon, Sergio Santana and Sascha Salazar. Fond brother of Gerald Mendelsohn. Bob is further survived by his close cousin Pat Addiss, brothers/sisters-in-law Donna Ledvina, John (Kathy) Ledvina, Marilyn (Tomlin) Rosi, and Joe (Denise) Ledvina as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, father and mother-in-law Norbert and Mayme Ledvina, sister-in-law Nancy Mendelsohn, brother-in-law David Ledvina, special cousins Richard Flicker and Bob Simenson, dear aunts and uncles and special niece Kari Mendelsohn.
Bob joined the ROTC program while attending Cornell University and following his graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Army at the rank of 1st Lieutenant. After serving his tour of duty and receiving an honorable discharge, Bob attended the University of Michigan where he earned his PhD in clinical psychology.
Following graduation, Bob began his career at LaFayette Clinic in Detroit as a clinical psychologist and researcher. He was co-investigator of the Detroit disturbances and published numerous articles on the societal issues which led to the disturbances. Bob then joined the faculty at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay as a Professor of Clinical Psychology. During his tenure, Bob was instrumental in the development of the Community Human Services Masters’ Program. He was active in the University community and mentored many students throughout the years.
Bob donated numerous hours to the United Way of Green Bay. As a result of his dedicated volunteer work, he received the University Award for Excellence in Community Outreach in 1991.
After his retirement, Bob joined Dr. Ed Johnson, Psychiatry in clinical private practice.
Bob always had a strong passion to help people. He will be remembered for his zest for life and his passion for classical music and opera – with Mozart being his favorite composer. He spent many hours on the racket ball court with Norbert and Gene in fierce competition. There never was a summer where Bob was not planting and tending to his vegetable garden. He spent many enjoyable summers in Door County at his cottage on the shores of Green Bay. He loved baseball and was an avid Brewers fan.
Bob was a loving and devoted man to his wife, Sandra, family, friends, colleagues and students. He will be sorely missed by those who loved him.
Per Bob’s wishes, private services will be held now; a public celebration of his life will be held next year.
If desired, memorials to the social justice, environmental or arts organization of your choice.
Sandy, our deepest sympathy and condolences to you and your family at this time of sorrow. Take comfort and keep your memories close.
Sandy, my condolence to you and your family. I met Bob at UW Green Bay. in the Community Human Services Masters’ Program. I remember running into you and Bob on Downer Avenue in Milwaukee always greeted by Bob’s great smile.