Jack R. Eidelman, M.D.

Psychiatrist and Teacher

Dr. Jack R. Eidelman, psychiatrist and former Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at St. Louis University School of Medicine, died Thursday (April 17^th, 2003) at his home in Clayton.  He was 89. 

            Throughout his career, he was a popular professor, and taught Psychiatry to every student at St. Louis University Medical School over several decades.  He was known for his eclectic and practical approach, the use of hypnosis in the treatment of pain and behavior change, and his belief in the importance of a doctor touching and even hugging his patients.  (See Doctor Gets in Touch with Patients’ Problems, St. Louis Globe Democrat, October 21, 1975.)  As President of the St. Louis County Medical Society, he urged St. Louis doctors to reach out and improve health care for those in need. 

            Born in St. Louis in 1913, he worked his way through both college and medical school at St. Louis University.  After receiving his M.D. in 1939, he went directly into the Army to serve in World War II.  He served in Italy and North Africa with the 70th General Hospital unit from St. Louis University, retiring with the rank of Major.  After the war, he returned to St. Louis as Assistant Superintendent of the St. Louis State Hospital, and then had a 40-year career in private practice. 

            He married Elinor Scharff. Eidelman on June 21, 1942.  They were married for 60 years, and raised their family in Clayton. 

            Dr. and Mrs. Eidelman were among the original founders of Temple Emanuel in Creve Coeur, where they were members for 47 years.

             They have been actively involved in the community and the arts, supporting and attending the symphony, Muny Opera, dance, theatre, the zoo, and Shaw’s Garden. 

            The funeral will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. on Monday at Temple Emanuel, 12166 Conway Road.

            In addition to his wife, among the survivors are four sons, David, Jim, and Andy of St. Louis, and William, of Los Angeles, and their families, including five grandchildren. 

            Memorial contributions can be made to the Peregrine Society, 2343 Hampton Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63139; or to BJC Home Homecare, 9890 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO 63124; or to the charity of your choice.