It is with deep love and profound sadness that the family of Dr. Mitchell (Mitch) Lewis Halperin announces his passing on November 5, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born in Montreal, Quebec, on May 18, 1937, to Fannie (née Jacobs) and Hyman Mordechai Halperin, Mitch grew up in Montreal alongside his predeceased siblings Ruth (Art Leznoff) and Alex (Carol who still leads the California Halperins).

Mitch was devoted to his wife and high school sweetheart Brenda (née Geller), with whom he shared an extraordinary partnership spanning 69 years. Together they built a life defined by love, generosity, and unwavering commitment to family.

Mitch was a devoted father to Aileen (Anthony Kozdas), Frank (Linda O’Neill), and Ross (Dani Sarbit). He was a cherished grandfather to Madison (Mario Vertolli), Emileigh, Mackenzie, and Bronson Kozdas; Laura (Spencer Naito) and Heather Halperin; and Ava, Talia, and the late Zane Halperin.

Professionally, Dr. Halperin’s impact was immense. He spent the majority of his career at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, where he served as a Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto. A world-renowned nephrologist, researcher, author, and educator, Mitch was known for his legendary teaching rounds, his gift for simplifying complex physiology from first principles, and his insistence on always “seeing the big picture.” His mentorship shaped generations of physicians around the world.

His groundbreaking work was recognized by colleagues and peers with numerous awards and honorary doctorates internationally, as well as one of Canada’s highest civilian honours, the Order of Canada.

Along with his professional accomplishments, Mitch was first and foremost a family man — ever-present, supportive, and unfailingly generous with his time. Brenda and Mitch never missed a family milestone, no matter how far or obscure the destination.

Outside of medicine, Mitch’s passions were wide-ranging. He found great joy at “Skoots,” the family cottage, where friends and family were always welcome. He was also an accomplished athlete and coach who enjoyed squash, tennis, hockey, baseball, golf…

Mitch’s life was one of purpose and kindness. His influence will endure through the many lives he touched as a physician, teacher, mentor, husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.

A graveside service for family and close friends will take place on November 9th at Pardes Chaim Cemetery.

A Memorial and Celebration of Mitch’s remarkable life will take place on Sunday, November 30th at 11:00 a.m. at Steeles Memorial Chapel with an open house at the family home on Saturday November 29th 1-5 pm and Sunday November 30th from 2-7 pm.

In keeping with Mitch’s spirit of generosity, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Michael’s Hospital Foundation (stmichaelsfoundation.com) or the Zane Halperin Legacy Fund (livelikezane.com).