Dr. Harry L. Rubens, 95, a Chicago dentist for nearly 60 years, obtained six degrees from local colleges in medicine, art and Jewish history.
A lifelong resident of Chicago, Dr. Rubens died Wednesday at Rush-North Shore Medical Center in Skokie.
He graduated from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry in 1917, but was not immediately granted a license because he was only 20 years old.
He worked for the U.S. Postal Service for a year, then received his license .
Dr. Rubens lived and practiced on the West Side from 1918 until 1948 and on the North Side from 1954 until 1976.
He also was an Army veteran of World War I and served in the Air Force as a civilian dentist in Okinawa from 1949 until 1951.
In 1964, he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Chicago and the Art Institute of Chicago, and in 1967, a Master of Fine Arts degree in painting.
Dr. Rubens became an avid sculptor and painter.
In 1962, one of his works was stolen from a local exhibit, prompting the dentist to say he was flattered that the thief chose his work above all the others.
After retiring, Dr. Rubens enrolled at Chicago City College, where he received an Associate in Humanities degree.
He then decided to continue his education at Spertus College of Judaica, where he received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Judaic Studies.
Dr. Rubens traveled to more than 60 countries, often helping people who could not afford regular dental care.
He is survived by two sons, Alan and Howard; eight grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
Graveside services will be private.
