The Raoul Wallenberg Research Initiative (RWI-70)
June 17, 2023
In memoriam
Dr. Vadim J. Birstein
1944 - 2023
It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Dr. Vadim J. Birstein.
Vadim died suddenly on June 12th, after a short but serious illness.
I would like to convey my sincere condolences to his family, especially his wife Kathryn and his daughter Arina whom he both adored.
Vadim was an eminent scholar in two fields - molecular genetics and history. In his historical research he focused mainly on the history of the Soviet State Security Services. His work in the Raoul Wallenberg case almost single-handedly lifted the inquiry on a whole new level of scholarship and investigation. I personally have lost a longtime collaborator, a frequent sounding board, an often garrulous but always inspiring discussion partner, and a steadfast colleague and friend. Vadim, you are irreplaceable and greatly missed.
There will be a memorial service at Plaza Jewish Community Chapel, 630 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY on Sunday, July 2nd, 2023 at 3:00 pm. If you wish to convey a personal message or tribute to Vadim, you can send it to me or directly to Vadim’s wife - kathryn@birstein.com
His family asks that if anyone wishes to honor Vadim’s memory, they would appreciate it if you made a donation to Razom, Inc., a Ukrainian charity based in NYC, as the Ukrainian cause was very close to Vadim’s heart. Their donation link is https://www.razomforukraine.org/
A full obituary and commemoration will follow.