Dr. Raymond Karl Lederman's Obituary
Dr. Raymond Karl Lederman, whose compassion and deep devotion to his family and values made him a guiding light to all who knew him, passed away peacefully at his home on June 15, 2015 after a long journey with cancer. He was 65. Born on February 24, 1950 in Detroit, he graduated from the University of Michigan, then attended medical school at Michigan State University. He practiced family medicine in California before meeting the love of his life, Amy Hirshberg, and moving to Tucson in 1982 to complete a residency in psychiatry at the University of Arizona. A passionate advocate for child and adolescent mental health, he served as medical director for Desert Hills Hospital and the Providence Corporation, where he was adored by patients and staff alike. As the Associate Medical Director of the Arizona Department of Health, he reformed the behavioral health system for children and adolescents across Arizona. He served as Associate Medical Director for the Community Partnership of Southern Arizona for six years before retiring in 2011, but continued as a psychiatric consultant for the United States Department of Justice; responsible for reviewing, monitoring and auditing inpatient and outpatient facilities nationwide. He was a leader and active member in Tucson's Jewish community and gave generously of his time to Hillel, Tucson Hebrew Academy, Congregation Or Chadash and other community organizations. Ray was a devoted son, brother, father, husband and friend. He exuded a gentle strength, radiant smile and unique ability to connect with others on a deep human level. Ray is survived by his wife of 32 years, Amy Hirshberg Lederman; his children, Joshua and Lauren; his siblings, Martin Lederman, Judy Gold, and Sema Lederman; as well as countless relatives and friends. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 15, 2015 at 10:30 am at the Tucson Jewish Community Center, 3800 E River Rd., followed by graveside services at Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ray's honor to the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or the American Cancer Society.
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