DR. JOEL SAFIER: Born May 20, 1938, Mckeesport, PA passed away peacefully at his home in Pittsburgh. Joel is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Judith Barad Safier, his two sons, Andrew Jacob (Linda DeMercurio) Safier, and Dr. Robert Adam Safier. His brother, Ronald Lee Safier (Doreen), and sister-in-law, Steffi Gold. Also, survived by nieces, Susan Farber, Nancy Cohen, Shari Caspert, and nephew, Jon Safier. His niece, Jodi Ayne Safier preceded him in death. Survived by great nieces, Rachel and Taylor Cohen, and Jenna, Abby, and Drew Safier. Great nephews, Jed, David, and Jack Farber, Carson Cohen, and Jason and Matthew Caspert. Joel graduated from Washington & Jefferson College and the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He completed two years of his residency at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, where he specialized in Pediatrics. He spent his final year of residency at Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago. He spent two years in the US Air Force at Grand Forks, North Dakota, where he practiced Pediatrics on the Air Force Base. He then moved to Mt. Lebanon and joined Arnold M. Steinman in private practice. He was later joined by Doctors Judy Giga, Ned Ketyer, Kathy Walczak, and Ray O'Toole until he retired in 2002. Joel absolutely loved what he did and was loved by all of the families he cared for. Even to this day, former patients would recognize him and say, "There's Dr. Safier." His son Robert cares for children, whose parents were some of Joel’s former patients. Joel was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan and was one of the few, who truly witnessed the “Immaculate Reception” in person. He loved going to theater and one of his claims to fame was that he saw, "Les Miserables" fourteen times. Joel enjoyed golfing, bridge, and spending time with his family and friends. Those who knew him appreciated his dry and witty sense of humor. Upon his retirement, Joel and his wife spent winters in Long Boat Key, Florida. Service and Interment PRIVATE. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to United Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Division of Child Neurology or Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Free Care Fund. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., www.schugar.com
My sympathy to the Safier family.
In 1977 I gave birth to a premature baby girl at Magee Hospital who got sick and was having trouble breathing. She was put on a respirator. Dr. Safier was in charge of her care in the preemie ICU unit. Being a young mother I was scared. I’ll never forget when he came to talk to me. He sat down and explained thoroughly the treatment my daughter was going to receive. He was so knowledgeable, kind and compassionate. She survived and thrived under his care. He remained her pediatrician for many years. I will never forget him. RIP - Melanie Barley
By Melanie Barley - November 02, 2021
Mark and I are so sorry to hear of Joel’s passing. Our love for Joel began 52 years, when he became our son,Scott’s, Pediatrician. Our friendship then extended to Judy and their family. We will always remember our vacations and times spent at Beach Haven. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May Joel’s memory be for a blessing and give you strength.
