Ernest G. Masler, M.D., an accomplished psychoanalyst, died May 14. He was 87.
Masler was born April 27, 1923 and grew up in North Dakota and Southern California. Masler served as a paratrooper in Germany during World War II. After returning to the U.S., he studied psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine. He then completed his internship at USC Medical Center and his residency at Topeka State Hospital, Menninger School of Psychiatry, where he specialized in psychoanalysis.
Masler was one of the first psychotherapists to practice group therapy in the Los Angeles area and was a member of the Southern California Psychoanalytic Institute, earning the Franz Alexander Prize for his work in 1968. During the 1970s, he opened the North Hollywood Free Clinic, and was a dedicated clinician, supervisor and teacher throughout his life. He worked with renowned psychoanalysts such as D.W. Winnicot and Wilfred Bion, and was given the honorary title of professor emeritus by USC.
Masler enjoyed spending time in nature, bicycling, hiking, diving and caring for his garden of exotic flowers and vegetables. He was also interested in astronomy and frequently used his telescope on the balcony of his home. Masler’s interest in the arts led him to take thousands of photographs, particularly of sunrises and sunsets, and write poetry.
As a Malibu resident of more than 25 years, Masler greatly cared for the community. After losing his home to a fire in 1993, he became dedicated to educating the community about fire safety.
Masler is survived by his wife of 40 years, Carolyn; his children Edward Masler and wife Janet, Daniel Masler and wife Christina, Jonathan Kates and wife Brooke, Kimberly Armstrong and husband Tylor, and Jennifer Ramlo and husband Kurt; and his grandchildren Kaya and Nora Masler, Cole Kates, Kailey, Sage Armstrong and Leandra and Anika Ramlo.