Kenneth Howard Bleifer

Dr. Kenneth Howard Bleifer, one of the most outstanding nephrologists in Southern California, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2025, at the age of 95, due to amyloid heart disease. Surrounded by his loving family at home, Ken leaves behind a remarkable legacy as a pioneering figure in the medical field and a cherished family man.

Born on August 14, 1929, in the Bronx, New York, Ken was the son of John Bleifer, a distinguished actor on the Yiddish stage, and Grace Bleifer, a talented ballet dancer. The family relocated to Los Angeles in 1932, where Ken grew up with his two brothers—Daniel, a cardiologist who passed away in 1981, and Selvyn, his identical twin, a retired cardiologist living in La Jolla, California.

Ken attended Beverly Hills High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically, earning all-league honors in basketball. Following his high school graduation, he served four years in the U.S. Air Force before returning to Los Angeles to pursue his medical education. In 1955, He graduated with honors from the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine as a member of the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Medical Honor Society.

Ken’s contributions to medicine were transformative. As one of the pioneers in nephrology in the Los Angeles area, he founded one of the first dialysis units in the San Fernando Valley and established one of the principal internal medicine and nephrology medical groups in the region. For over 60 years, he practiced medicine with compassion and expertise, touching countless lives. His exceptional impact on the treatment of kidney diseases earned him recognition from the National Kidney Foundation, which honored him for his dedication and innovation.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ken was a man of diverse passions. An avid fisherman, he found peace and joy on the water. A connoisseur of fine food and wine, he was a longtime member of the San Fernando Valley Wine and Food Society, where he shared his love for culinary arts with family and friends.  In his spare time he loved to handicap the ponies at the various horse racing tracks around the country.

In April 1964, Ken married the love of his life, Sandra. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising two children: Dana, a practicing veterinarian, and Tony. Ken was also a devoted grandfather to his twin granddaughters, who brought immense happiness to his later years.

Ken is survived by his beloved wife Sandra, his children Dana and Tony, his twin granddaughters, and his twin brother Selvyn. His warmth, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to his family, patients, and passions will be deeply missed.

A private family service will be held to honor his memory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Jewish Healing and Hospice Center of Los Angeles, at https://jhcla.org in Ken’s memory.