Gary N. Apter, MD

September 19, 1943 - February 22, 2018

Dr. Gary Apter passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on February 22, 2018. Gary was 74. He and his brother Dennis were born in Pittsburgh, PA to Barry and Edith Apter. Gary attended the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill where he was an active member of Hillel. He graduated with a degree in chemistry and went on to study medicine at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland. It was in Lausanne where he met his beloved wife of 49 years, Ingrid. Ingrid and Gary moved to San Francisco in 1975 where he established his medical practice and served his cherished patients for over 40 years. Gary’s compassion and unwavering dedication to quality medicine were appreciated by generations of patients. Gary was a devoted and loving father to his two children, Janine and Brian.

As an avid outdoor enthusiast, Gary’s passions were back-country skiing glaciers in Canada with Ingrid, backpacking The Sierra, mountain-biking Mt. Tam, and biking through Europe.

Gary’s gift was making true connections with everyone he met. His everpresent smile, inquisitive nature and deep compassion for people’s happiness and health created bonds with patients, friends and family that will carry on his spirit. Gary made us all better people.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Barry and Edith. He is survived by his loving wife Ingrid, brother Dennis, his two children Janine and Brian, and his three precious grand-daughters Aria Belle, Tahlia Mae and Larkin Rae, who were the apples of his eye.

A Memorial Service will be held at Congregation Sherith Israel on Sunday February 25 at 4pm. In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations in his name shall be gratefully accepted by the following organizations: UCSF Foundation, directed to the Pancreas Center Dr. Tempero, Congregation Sherith Israel, and The Nature Conservancy.