Obituary of Dr. Fred Gentili

DR. FRED GENTILI

MD MSc FRCSC FACS FAANS
Professor, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto
The Crean Hotson Chair in Skull Base Surgery
The Alan and Susan Hudson Chair in Neuro-Oncology

It is with profound sadness that the family of Dr. Fred Gentili announce his peaceful passing on Saturday, January 15, 2022 in Toronto, surrounded by his wife, sons, and mother-in-law.

Born to Angelo and Lina Gentili in Sarnano, Macerata, Italy, he will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Gina; children: Michael (Bob) and David (Devon); grandchildren: Sebastian, Oscar, Alexander, and Samuel; brother: Albert; as well as numerous relatives and friends. Dr. Gentili was predeceased by his first wife Patricia, second wife Alice; and son Ryan.

Fred lived and breathed neurosurgery. It was his life, his passion, his fire. He impacted countless lives with a tireless dedication to his patients, a passion for innovation, and mentorship of the next generation of neurosurgeons.

Outside of the operating theatre, Fred never shied away from a lively debate over good food and fine wine, often hosting family, friends, and visiting fellows. Fred enjoyed travel, whether to attend conferences to further the field of neurosurgery, or to visit loved ones on family vacations in and around Sarnano.

A graduate of the University of Toronto (UofT) medical school, he was awarded a McLaughlin Fellowship to pursue advanced training in skull base and micro-neurosurgery, completing clinical fellowships at the University of Zurich with Prof. G. Yasargil and at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery (Queen Square) in London, England with Prof. L. Symon.

A Full Professor at UofT, practising in the Division of Neurosurgery, Krembil Brain Institute at the Toronto Western Hospital, he authored more than 100 publications and over 25 book chapters, and received countless accolades and honours. Dr. Gentili was a pioneer in his field, named the first Director of the Skull Base Centre (UofT) and as a founding member of the North American Skull Base Society.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the Toronto Western Hospital, UHN Radiology, and PMH Radiation & Oncology staff for their expert care and treatment.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Dr. Fred Gentili Skull Base Clinic Fund at UHN Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Please visit UHNfoundation.ca/Gentili or call 416-603-5300.  Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.

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