Marshall Ginsburg

Marshall Ginsburg, who spent his early life in Chicago, his adult life in Cincinnati, and the past 4 years near his daughter in Madison, Wisconsin, a man of endless curiosity, kindness, and humor, died somewhat suddenly but peacefully on October 22, 2023, at the age of 93, after a short illness, surrounded by his family. He lived a wonderful, long life, but he leaves a hole in our hearts and in the world.

Born December 15, 1929, to Harry and Sylvia Ginsburg in Chicago, Marshall was a presence in this world from the beginning. As a child he was a proud member of his gang of friends known as “The Ogres.” The antics of the Ogres could fill the best book you ever read. As a medical student he discovered his mission in life and became a psychiatrist. He believed strongly in social justice and moving our society forward toward compassion and equality. As a psychiatrist in Cincinnati, Ohio, he was a leader in the 1960s and 70s in the movement to create community-based mental health services instead of putting people with mental illness in institutions. He brought humanity to the people whom society had cast to the margins.

Marshall’s medical residency took him from Chicago to Cincinnati, where he met Enid Trinkle, who instantly became his focus and love of his life. They married in 1960, and he remained devoted to her for 63 years until his death. They had a life of great love and companionship and showed everyone what unconditional love and care looks like. Enid continues to live in their apartment in Independent Living in Madison.

Marshall had many joys: playing his violin and viola; playing chamber music in the living room, with Enid on cello and dear friends on the piano; reading books about philosophy; having talks that were substantive (he hated small talk!); thinking about the nature of happiness; savoring his morning coffee; browsing the library; playing chess along with his son, Jeff, at the New Cincinnati Chess Club for decades and in later years online; and talking to people. Marshall loved to engage, truly interested in other peoples’ thoughts and insights. He was also hilarious. There was always so much laughter, even in the hospital during his last days.

He was the best father ever to Jennifer and Jeff, thought the world of his son-in-law, Jeff Weyer, and adored his grandchildren: Norah, Nate, Nick, and Leah. He was preceded in death by his parents; his much beloved brother, Julius; and sister-in-law, Corie. He had a truly special relationship with his nephews and nieces: David, Pam, Amy, Andy, and Janet, whom he loved dearly.

We are very grateful for the compassionate care he received from the palliative care team at the University of Wisconsin Hospital in Madison.

A celebration of life will be held in Cincinnati, Ohio, on Saturday, November 11th, from 1:00-4:00 pm at the Courtyard by Marriott Midtown/Rookwood at 3813 Edwards Road. All of our family and friends are invited to come together to honor Marshall’s life and share cherished memories.