Leslie Piskitel's Obituary
Dr. Leslie Edward Frank Piskitel, a devoted physician, husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on March 29, 2026, in Oakland, California, at the age of 89.
Born on October 20, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, Leslie was the son of Margaret and Frank Piskitel, both Hungarian immigrants. He grew up in Dearborn, Michigan, within a vibrant Hungarian community that helped shape his lifelong appreciation for family, culture, and food.
He attended Wayne State University, where he earned both his undergraduate and medical degrees, beginning a career defined by dedication and care. After serving as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force as a physician, he pursued further training during a fellowship in neonatology at Hammersmith Hospital in London. He went on to spend 30 years at Kaiser Permanente in Oakland as a pediatrician, including work in the Neonatal ICU, and retired in 1996 as Assistant Chief of Pediatrics.
In 1975, he married Joellen Bonham Piskitel, and together they built a life centered on family, shared experiences, and a love of exploration. He is survived by his wife; his son, Hiram (Myung Gin Suh); his daughter, Margaret (Noah Kravitz); his grandchildren, Zach and Sebastian; and his sister, Klara Panontin. He was predeceased by his sister, Margaret Collinge.
Leslie had a wry sense of humor and a deep love of cooking, photography, travel, and the outdoors. Yosemite National Park was especially dear to him, and after retirement he returned year after year as a volunteer Campground Host, particularly in Wawona and Tuolumne Meadows. Whether hiking, cycling, preparing and enjoying a meal with a glass of wine, or attending a concert or play, he brought care, curiosity, and attention to detail to everything he did.
The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the doctors and nurses at Kaiser Permanente for their kindness and professionalism, and to his in-home caregivers for their attentive care and support during his later years.
A memorial service will be announced.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Yosemite Conservancy.
He will be remembered for his warmth, dedication, and keen wit, and for the many lives he touched through his work, his friendships, and his family.
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