Robert I Bernstein

Dr. Robert Isaac Bernstein, ScD.
July 13, 1927-July 26, 2023
Born in Manhattan, Bob died peacefully at 96 at Englewood Health Medical Center, NJ. Husband of Carol Slote Bernstein; father of Joseph and Rachel (Ted), and predeceased by both his son Jonathan (and wife Oriah); grandfather of Sam and Josh Spieth. Bob graduated from Bronx High School of Science, City College (BS), NYU (MS), Columbia University (ScD). He enlisted in the Navy in WWII as an Electronic Technical Specialist. A full professor of electrical engineering at Columbia University at age 30, Bob held patents for cardiac catheters and pacemaker design. He taught at Columbia, and in 1970 researched during sabbatical at Weitzman Institute in Rehovot, Israel to develop the first pacemaker that could be recharged while still inside the patient. He then co-founded Electro Catheter, Inc. in Rahway, NJ until retirement.
Frances, an attorney, Bob’s first wife of 31 years, predeceased him in 1989. Bob and Carol were married for 32 years, living in Tenafly, NJ. Bob is survived by stepchildren, Stuart Slote (Taryn), Ellen Bernardeau (Vincent), and three step-grandchildren, Jarrett Slote, Madeleine and Abigail Bernardeau, all who dearly loved him. Bob was a pioneer in radar research which was utilized by the Department of Defense, holding high level security clearances. Bob held patents in the field of pacemaker miniaturization. Bob served as a leading board member and President of Riverside Research Institute for many years. His sister Nancy and her husband Dr. Bernard Ackerman, both predeceased him. His father, Dr. Joseph Bernstein died when Bob was eight, and Bob was raised by his mother, Augusta Holzer Bernstein, a school teacher. Bob is survived by many loving relatives and friends. Deepest appreciation to Sandra Peralta, loving caregiver for Bob’s last six years, who provided impeccable and compassionate care for our eminent Professor. We all deeply miss you!