Martin Gimpel Wolfish

WOLFISH, Dr. Martin G., M.D.,F.R.C.P.(C), D.A.B.P., F.S.A.M. - On Friday, March 6th, 2009, in his 83rd year, peacefully at home, after a lengthy and brave battle with illness. Dr. Martin Wolfish, best friend and husband for 57 years of Sheila. Father and father-in-law of Michael (Holly Bick), Barry (Randi Winston), the late David, Niel, and Sherri Wolfish (David Factor). Devoted grandfather of Nathalie and Jed Bick; Jonathan and Robyn Wolfish; Samantha, Max and Jamie Wolfish; and Sarah and Rebecca Factor. Brother of Dr. Norman Wolfish of Ottawa. Predeceased by his sister Malca Wechsler. Born in Toronto. Educated at Harbord Collegiate Institute; University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine; Yale University; Toronto General Hospital, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, and Johns Hopkins Hospital. Winner of the Cody Gold Medal, Faculty of Medicine U of T, and member of Alpha Omega Alpha Honour Medical Society. Associate Professor of Pediatrics, University of Toronto; Founder and Chief of Adolescent Clinic, Hospital for Sick Children; Chief of Pediatrics, North York General Hospital; President of Canadian Pediatric Society and President, Society for Adolescent Medicine. Actively involved in Jewish community affairs and Beth Tzedec Congregation.

Martin Wolfish was the eldest of three children of William and Hilda Wolfish. Being the oldest came with responsibilities, something Martin carried with him his entire life.

Martin went to high school at Toronto's Harbord Collegiate Institute during the Second World War. While attending the University of Toronto's Faculty of Medicine, he won a medal for being the highest-achieving student at a time when Jewish students weren't easily accepted into professional schools.

Martin met his future wife Sheila at summer camp while working as the camp doctor shortly after graduation; they married in 1951. He later attended Yale University and completed his residency at Toronto General Hospital, the Hospital for Sick Children and Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore.

Over time, Martin developed great skills and experience in his field, leading to a long and compassionate pediatric career. At the shiva following his funeral, a woman told Sheila that when her baby was sick, Martin was sure to call her every day with updates in an age when parents were not allowed in the pediatric intensive-care unit. Thinking creatively, he sewed together a small blood-pressure cuff to fit the tiny baby. The improvisation was later used as a prototype for baby cuffs.

Martin was a mentor to many younger doctors and residents. He founded the adolescent clinic at the Hospital for Sick Children and was chief of pediatrics for many years at North York General Hospital.

Martin always actively supported his sons, Michael, Barry, David and Niel, as well as his nieces, nephews and grandchildren, encouraging educational pursuits and sharing in the joys of travel. Martin and Sheila travelled extensively together and with their children and grandchildren. He was an incredible teacher whether it be snorkelling, sailing or cooking lessons. He was also an active member of the Jewish community.

When David suddenly died of an undiagnosed heart ailment in 1997, Martin taught strength and leadership by example by holding his entire family together. He and Sheila continued to live rich, full lives despite their heartache. Together, they continued to attend courses, travel and volunteer in the community.

After winding up his practice, Martin continued working at a pediatric clinic and performing hospital accreditations well into his 70s. Even in failing health, he was gracious and put on a brave face for his family.

Martin will be remembered not only for his generous spirit and inner strength, but also for the wisdom he imparted to others - whether it was the best way to take the blood pressure of a squirming baby or how to make disappearing pancakes for his grandchildren.

Nathalie Bick is Martin's granddaughter

Interment Beth Tzedec Memorial Park / North York, ON / Canada, Section 8, Plot 91, Lot 1