Michael Nelken

Dr. Michael Alonzo Nelken passed away on Friday, June 13, of heart failure at the age of 86. One friend recalled: "Mike wanted to live forever because he loved it all!" Born in New Orleans and raised in the Bay Area, Michael graduated from Reed College in physics and created early computer systems in San Francisco. In his 30s, he attended medical school at Washington University in St. Louis before taking a fellowship in psychiatry at Yale University. He taught family psychiatry at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine, then joined the medical staff of the Hospital of St. Raphael in New Haven. He continued to practice child and family psychiatry well into his 80s.

Anyone who knew and loved Michael knows that Michael could not be contained by convention. Michael was a champion for the common man who believed most in love and freedom of expression. He was willing to dance with anyone who would brave his sweaty embrace. Whether pressing his book on Hitler to worshippers at synagogues, or conversing in foreign languages with tired restaurant staff, Michael knew that we are all brothers and sisters, and happiness can be earned if we are just willing to talk it out.

Michael loved everything bright and loud, like trombones, elephants, extra spice and extra garlic, and all colors of the rainbow – worn at once. By the end of any meal, every plate would have migrated to his end of the table. Michael is survived by his six children and stepson, seven grandchildren, a sister and brother and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial will be held in Michael's honor at his former residence on Alston Ave on Sunday, August 3 from 1-4 pm, where visitors will be encouraged to share a story and a meal with family and friends. In lieu of gifts, please consider donating to Michael's favorite charities: Central Falls Children's Foundation or the ACLU.