Donald Masler

Masler, Donald StanleyM.D. If there was anyone who fit the definition of "mensch" it would be Don Masler. He was compassionate, humble and caring, always interested in helping others, no matter the hour or need. Don Masler was born in Minneapolis to Bernard and Bessie Toby Masler in 1938, their only child. Don grew up in south Minneapolis, where his Romanian immigrant father ran a clothing store near downtown. A West High School alum, he attended the University of Minnesota for his undergraduate degree and medical school. Don served a year in Vietnam as a battalion surgeon for the First Infantry, stationed in a village north of Saigon. Half that time was spent on maneuvers with troops, and half as director of the battalion dispensary. He then served a year stateside at Fort McNair. After the service, Don completed his residency at the Minneapolis VA, where he spent the rest of his career. He was drawn to internal medicine, which he described as being the more "humane" side of medicine. He worked in nephrology, admissions, staff education, and, for the last decade of his career, as part of a home care team. He valued seeing the patients, many of whom had complex problems, in their home environments, where he could more clearly assess their needs. Don was a lifelong member of Adath Jeshurun Congregation, serving as a lay cantor, Torah reader, teacher, and tutor. He took on similar roles at Mayim Rabim Congregation when it was founded in the 1990s. Don was a patient, encouraging teacher of Torah, Talmud, and service leading. His sweet voice and humble yet deeply knowledgeable presence was an inspiration. Don met Jim Kelley in 1968. The two became devoted partners for 49 years. As Jim was teaching at Iowa State in Ames, the two maintained a long-distance relationship for over two decades until Jim retired and moved to Minneapolis. Together they enjoyed Elderhostel programs, the Santa Fe Opera, and Mardi Gras, and traveled North America, Europe, and Israel until Jim's death. Don touched many and leaves behind numerous friends, colleagues, patients, and students. Memorials to Adath Jeshurun or Mayim Rabim. The funeral will be held Wed, Aug. 16, 10 am, at Adath Jeshurun, 10500 Hillside Ln W, Mtka, also live streamed adathjeshurun.org. Shiva 7 pm: Wed. & Thurs, 8/16, 8/17 at Mayim Rabim, 4401 York Ave S, Mpls.; 7 pm Sun. & Mon., 8/20 & 8/21 at Adath Jeshurun. Arrangements with Adath Jeshurun Chevra Kavod Hamet and Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Tributes

Donald Masler

May 4, 1938 - August 14, 2023

Tributes

Donald Masler

May 4, 1938 - August 14, 2023

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