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01/20/2014
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Martin Mussman, DPM
Martin Mussman, DPM died at his home on January 13, 2014. Dr. Mussman proudly served the Veteran's Administration over 40 years, including serving as the Director of Podiatry Service for the Central Office from 1987 through 1997. Marty was a true pioneer for podiatric medicine in the Department of Veterans Affairs and worked tirelessly to carry the podiatry service to its rightful place. He was a strong, dedicated and passionate advocate for podiatric public health, achieving board certification in The American Board of Podiatric Public Health and was at the forefront of podiatric residency education.
| Dr. Martin Mussman |
He was a member of the National Academies of Practice as a Distinguished Practitioner. He was a founding member of the Federal Services Podiatric Medical Association. During his tenure as National Program Director, he increased the number of VA residency positions and almost single-handedly solved the residency genesis crisis of that generation. His pursuit of excellence in all aspects of his life inspired many. He will be sorely missed.
Jeffrey Robbins, DPM, Cleveland, OH
Other messages in this thread:
08/13/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
From: Tilden Sokoloff, DPM
Frank was the essence of the Jewish word "mensch." In 1967, I received a telephone call that literally changed my life and Francine's life forever. Frank (Known as Don) along with 3 other stellar East Bay Doctors of Podiatric Medicine called to tell me that I was chosen to be their 1967-68 resident...Wow life-changing for a Philadelphia boy in a world where residency programs were scarce.
They started and literally ran the residency program at Highland General Hospital in Oakland California, a large County Hospital and Trauma Center. Henri L. DuVries was Chief of Foot Surgery. Roger Mann was a 3rd year orthopedic resident. It was no easy feat to...
Editor's note: Dr. Sokoloff's extended-length letter can be read here.
08/12/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Frank Donald Tomasello, DPM
Dr. Frank Donald Tomasello (July 15, 1934 - July 27, 2024) recently celebrated his 90th birthday and passed away on the day of his 55th wedding anniversary, July 27. He was a graduate of UC Berkeley, and CCPM. Don practiced in Castro Valley, CA (East Bay area) for 40 years, where he was Chief of Podiatry at Eden Hospital. Don was my mentor and an excellent podiatrist, person, and friend. I met Don while I was in high school, and he introduced me to podiatry as a career.
| Dr. Frank Tomasello |
He assisted me in starting my private practice and in surgery, as well as other young podiatrists in the area. He was the ultimate professional and had a heart of gold, always willing to help and give advice. He was very well liked by his patients, medical staff, and the community. He enjoyed nature, hiking, skiing, and cooking. May he rest in peace. My condolences to his wife Penny and his children David and Vanessa, who he was so proud of.
Tim Dutra, DPM, Castro Valley, CA
08/08/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2
From: Victor V. Cachia, DPM
I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Lyman Wilson. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I thought that our wonderful mentors would live forever. Dr. Wilson was a superb example of integrity, professionalism, compassion, and mentorship. He helped to advance our profession tremendously, especially at a time when orthopedic surgeons were taking bold steps to limit our scope of practice and minimize our ability to educate our students, residents, and fellows.
Through his leadership, Dr. Wilson took a strong stance to advance our profession at our hospital, and on both state and national levels. He dedicated his time to educate residents in this program alongside other attending staff like Nicholas Grumbine, Richard Viehe, Greg Tilley, Tim Byron, Dale Rosenblum, and many others. Together, they constituted a strong fabric of education and excellence in our community.
I will be eternally grateful to Dr. Wilson for his guidance and mentorship. May he rest in peace with grace.
Victor Cachia, DPM, Laguna Beach, CA
08/08/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1
I was saddened to learn of Larrie Rockmacher’s passing. Larrie was an excellent podiatrist who provided my first job opportunity following my residency at Kern Hospital, our mutual alma mater. He was a generous and progressive practitioner who led the way for many who followed in northern Westchester County, NY. It was truly a privilege and joy to have been associated with him early in my practice career.
My condolences to Phyllis and the family.
Howard Rosenbaum, DPM (retired), Hillsdale, NJ
08/05/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
RE: The Passing of Lyman Harold Wilson, DPM
It hurts my heart to say that my friend, colleague, and mentor, Lyman Wilson, has passed. I was a shot/discus track coach at El Modena high school when his son Michael entered the ring. I told him I was interested in feet, and I just told him how to throw the discus, and he said, do you want to talk to my dad?
I was researching podiatry at the time, and he convinced me that it was the only way to go. He would have convinced you to change your profession and become a podiatrist. He was an ambassador for our profession. A wonderful man!
Gregory Eirich, DPM
08/05/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
Dr. Lyman Wilson was an extraordinary individual—humble yet brilliantly insightful. He loved our profession! A kind and remarkable mentor, he was a pillar in guiding many outstanding podiatrists in Southern California. His dedication to patient care and extensive political, educational, and administrative contributions have profoundly shaped our profession here in California. Dr. Wilson's engaging personality and persuasive advocacy efforts left an indelible mark on all fortunate to cross his path. Rest in peace, Lyman. Your legacy endures.
Philip Radovic, DPM, San Clemente, CA
08/02/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Lyman Harold Wilson, DPM
As I write this, I know I will be speaking for many of our colleagues here in California regarding Lyman Wilson, DPM who passed away on July 27th. Dr. Wilson was a mentor to so many young doctors in Orange County. Along with Drs. Nick Grumbine and Richard Viehe, he built up and ran what I consider one of the best residency programs in California at Western Medical Center, a level one trauma center.
| Dr. Lyman Wilson |
He was the epitome of what I think a podiatric physician should be. He was kind and giving of his time to any young colleague who wanted to learn. When I came to town, all of the family docs and other specialists who I met always knew “that podiatrist Lyman”. He fought so hard on so many fronts that even 40 years ago, our residents were taking ER call, scrubbing on all kinds of cases, and even going through microvascular training to assist our replant surgeons.
The only thing that he was prouder of than podiatry were his children. Marc is an attorney; Michael is a practicing podiatrist in Northern California and later in life, he had two lovely daughters, Taylor and Mariah, who recently graduated from college. Dr. Wilson served as president of the CPMA from 1990 to 1991 and was instrumental in buying the CPMA headquarters in Sacramento. Lyman joined me in my practice towards the end his career and I am so proud to say that one of my mentors became one of my best friends.
Jeff DeSantis, DPM
07/26/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
RE: The Passing of Stanley Schwartz, DPM
I'm truly sad to learn of the passing of our dear classmate, Stanley Schwartz, lovingly referred to as “shtendel”. As I, Stanley commuted from Brighton Beach to the M.J. Lewi College of Podiatry, a 2 hour trip to 125th Street.
Stan was loved by all his classmates, and I’m sure related well to his patients. Our class of 1960 has unfortunately dwindled, but those of us still lucky to survive have very fond memories of the four years we spent together. Shtendel will not be forgotten.
Spencer Dubov, DPM, Commack, NY
07/26/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
Stan was my co-undergrad at NYU, and classmate in the NYCPM (then the MJ Lewy College of Podiatry) Class of 1960. We were the smallest graduating class ever, just 17 of us, and naturally were all very close. “Schtendle” was the tallest (around 6’), and one of the most fun guys in the class. He was also a really sweet, gentle, nice guy, and it was great just keeping in touch on and off over the years. I know that his patients loved and respected him greatly. Our class has unfortunately dwindled to a very few remaining, and like the others who have passed, he’ll be sorely missed. My sincere condolences to his kids, grandkids, and great granddaughter. R.I.P. Stan.
Arthur Gudeon, DPM, Rego Park, NY
07/25/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
So sorry to hear of the passing of Don Barker, one of the first attendings I met when I moved to California for residency. I spent many days in the IR with Don. He also taught me about sushi in the early seventies when we could not eat $10.00 of sushi in those days. I spent picnics at his home with a real Japanese garden and sashimi from fish from San Francisco Bay caught by Don that morning. RIP Don.
Gene Spector, DPM
07/23/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
Dr. Stark was truly one of the good ones. He was an ambassador for our profession and represented podiatry with class. He was a mentor to the young docs trying to establish themselves in the community. I loved talking to him because he always made you feel good about your profession choice. He always asked about my personal life because he knew what the pressures of a new practice were. God bless you Allan, and your family. We have lost one of our best.
Gregory Eirich, DPM, Tustin, CA
07/22/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
I too was exposed to podiatric medicine after meeting Allen Stark at the Career Fair at UC Irvine. I recall a very crowded event except for his area. I felt sorry for him as he took the time off from his office to I decided to speak to him until “something good” opened up.
He invited me to his office where I visited regularly, and I was always welcome to stay for lunch. His wife Sandra was terrific and decided I needed to get married to the daughter of a colleague of Allen's who started his gynecology practice at the same time as Allen. I followed Sandra’s instructions and we will be married 35 years in November. Allen was a true mensch in every sense of the word and will be missed.
J. Scott Rosenthal, DPM, Los Angeles, CA
07/19/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Allan R. Stark, DPM
From: Eric Thuen, DPM, Gary Dorfman, DPM, Allan Weiss, DPM
I am very sorry to hear of the loss of Dr. Allan Stark. Dr. Stark was solely responsible for my decision to apply to CCPM in 1976, having met him at a career fair at UC Irvine. He invited me to shadow him in his office, where I was taken by his positive attitude and love of the profession. Dr. Stark was so engaging and loved by his patients. As previously stated by others, Dr. Stark was a “gentleman and kind soul”. I will always be indebted to him for leading me to this fine profession. Thank you Allan.
Eric Thuen, DPM, Oceanside, CA
It’s certainly not unusual to lose contemporaries, especially at my age. I have known Alan since 1960. He graduated from CCPM in 1963, the class behind mine. We were professional colleagues who grew up in our profession together and we became fast friends. He was dedicated to advancing his profession educationally, politically, and ethically. Thanks for sticking around so long Alan. You have been an inspiration to all who have crossed your path, and my sincere condolences to your family.
Gary Dorfman, DPM, Dana Point, CA
Alan, Rest in peace.
Allan Weiss, DPM, Mission Viejo, CA
07/18/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Allan R. Stark, DPM
It is with heavy heart and deep sorrow that I share the passing of my mentor, associate, and dear friend, Dr. Allan R. Stark. Dr. Stark graduated from USC followed by the California College of Podiatric Medicine. He served in the U.S Army active duty and reserves for 25 years and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel.
| Dr. Allan Stark |
Dr. Stark worked in private practice in the City of Orange, California. He was a strong supporter of the profession, prolific in recruiting students to podiatric medical schools and working to help further the scope of podiatric practice in the US. He served as President of the California Podiatric Medical Association and also Director and Instructor of The California School of Podiatric Radiography.
Dr. Stark also felt very strongly about supporting his community. As a lifelong member of Rotary, he served as President of his local club and later as District Governor for the Southern California region. Generous to a fault, he was the definition of a gentleman and kind soul. Not enough good things can be said about Dr. Stark. He will be sorely missed.
Neil Mansdorf, DPM
06/26/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
I was shocked to hear of Glenn's passing. He was a friend and mentor for over 30 years. Glenn gave me my first job in podiatry and taught me so much about the business of podiatry. He was patient, kind, generous, and a great teacher with an incredible work ethic. In the years that passed, I would stop by his office every other year or so just to say hello and catch up, and these always turned into hour long conversations about life.
My sincere condolences to his children, Ben and Kayla. Glenn was a special man who genuinely loved people, his beloved pets, and skiing. He will be missed by all. Rest in peace, Glenn.
Steven I Gubernick, DPM, Lawrenceville, NJ
06/25/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Willie Mays
From: Jeff Root
This week baseball legend Willie Mays passed away at the age of ninety-three. My father Merton Root, DPM had several of the San Francisco Giants as patients. Gaylord Perry gave my father tickets to a game for my birthday and invited me to come into the clubhouse before the game to meet the players. I idolized several of the Giant's players, especially Willie Mays.
| Willie Mays and Jeff Root (1957) |
While walking around the locker room being introduced to players by Gaylord Perry, Willie Mays invited me over to his bench for a picture with him. I think I was speechless. I will never forget how kind and warm he was. What an amazing athlete, role model and human being he was.
Jeff Root, President, KevinRoot Medical
06/13/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Peter Crickellas, DPM
It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Dr. Peter Crickellas. Pete and I were lab and clinic partners while at NYCPM and had remained best of friends since.
| Dr. Peter Crickellas |
Peter was a well decorated Vietnam veteran who received the Bronze Star, The Silver Star, Legion of Merit for gallantry in action, and a Purple Heart. Peter left podiatry after practicing for several years to pursue his second love, teaching biology. I will miss you brother. Rest in Peace.
Tom Pusterla, DPM
05/27/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
From: Gerald Peterson, DPM, Harold Glickman, DPM, Steven J Berlin, DPM
Many hours were spent together during the annual House of Delegates over the years discussing the business of the House and getting his perspective on the issues. His wisdom and insight was always invaluable to me, let alone his friendship. You will be missed my friend. RIP Gerald Peterson, DPM I can’t think of a more iconic figure on the Board of Trustees than Jack George. He had the leadership skills to transcend podiatric generations. Along with Arthur Helfand, DPM, Jack had a profound effect on my career as a podiatric physician. Harold Glickman, DPM, Past President, APMA I will miss Jack George. He was a fun guy to be with and he was a wonderful asset to our great profession. My condolences go out to Jack and his family. Steven J Berlin, DPM
05/27/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
From: David Alper, DPM
For those of you that did not have the good fortune to know Dr. Jack George, he was more than just a past-president (1992) - he was a true force to be reckoned with, both within the House of Delegates and out in the medical community. His presence in the HOD was at the level of Drs. Kanat and Kaplan - when he spoke, the room got quiet and people listened as he helped drive our profession forward.
In the 1970s and 1980s, Jack committed himself to elevating and protecting the profession of podiatry, first in Massachusetts, and later on a national level. He was instrumental, through advocacy and legal action, in breaking through prejudice by organized medicine, ultimately convincing key hospitals in Worcester, MA to allow, for the first time, podiatrists to perform surgery on site, and qualified podiatrists to be included in Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts and Medicaid. He helped Lloyd Smith and me successfully sue our hospitals for privileges after his success in Worcester.
And he was a "King Maker" - Lloyd Smith, Mike King, myself and others became deeply involved in our state society and APMA because of being chosen and guided by Jack. He firmly believed in the need to ensure that leadership was in place. He was a dear friend to podiatry - and to me. I will miss his wisdom, his passion - and his presence in my life.
David Alper, DPM
05/24/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of John Eblem George, DPM
Jack was an iconic figure in the evolution of Massachusetts podiatry. He helped redefine the profession in so many ways. He never faltered. He was a mentor and friend to many of us as we navigated the obstacles of organized medicine and its threats to our livelihoods.
Jack and I shared so many experiences and talked so many times. He went on to become the APMA President and motivated many of us to follow. My condolences to his wife, Joyce, his family and his many friends. RIP.
Lloyd Smith, DPM
05/13/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
From: Jeffrey Jensen, DPM
Condolences to the Hommel family. Dr. Hommel was an incredible podiatrist and is the reason I went into podiatric medicine. He let me shadow him in the summers of 1986 and 1987. He had a tremendous reputation as the “Runner’s Doctor” – he made orthotics and treated many marathon runners over the years in the Madison area. In fact, many out-of-state runners flew into Madison to be treated by him.
In the early '80s, he surgically corrected my mother’s bunions and hammertoes with excellent outcomes. He was kind and personable and his patients loved him. He always made time for me, was never in a rush, and explained pathologies and treatment plans. A wonderful human being! RIP Dr. Hommel.
Jeffrey Jensen, DPM
05/07/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
RE: The Passing of Richard A. Buratti, DPM
I was one of the many 1st and 2nd year podiatric residents at the Southern California Podiatric Medical Center, which was an independent clinic and teaching institution where outside attending podiatrists and surgeons, including Richard Buratti, DPM, volunteered their time without pay to advance our profession by lecturing and teaching clinical skills and forefoot and rear-foot surgery, both in Los Angeles and at our two Mexico clinics in Tijuana and Mexicali that ran under the name of the Baja Crippled Children's Program.
In addition, Dr. Buratti would allow the residents to come to his office and shadow him with his patients, and also scrub in on his private patient cases as well. We considered him to be a very progressive surgeon during that period of time in the early 1980s. He looked at the foot from a biomechanical perspective and was an excellent teacher of mid-foot and rearfoot anatomical surgical dissection for procedures that were considered advanced at that time, including calcaneal osteotomies, peroneal tendon balancing, and cuboid osteotomies.
I am certain that I am not alone in saying that I enjoyed his teachings and I learned some of my surgical skills and clinical skills from him. He was a pleasure to have known, and to have worked with. He always had a calm and reassuring demeanor. To his wife Ilona who I have met many times, your husband was a fine man and a great teacher. To Dawn, and Ilona I send my condolences and best wishes.
Keith L. Gurnick, DPM, Los Angeles, CA
05/07/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
I am saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Richard Buratti. As a teenager, I worked as a nurse’s aide in the operating room at Van Nuys Community Hospital where Dr. Buratti performed and taught surgery. I have fond memories of Dr. Buratti who treated all with kindness and respect. My thoughts and prayers go out to Dawn and the entire Buratti family.
Ross E. Taubman, DPM
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Richard Buratti. I worked for Dr. Buratti in his Northridge office in the nineties. He was a wonderful teacher and mentor. He was passionate about podiatry and loved to teach and was incredibly methodical in his approach to surgery. I was fortunate enough to earn a ride on his Cessna where he flew us to Catalina Island for a burger. My condolences to his wife Ilona and his daughter, Dawn. He was an asset to the profession.
Randi Margolis, DPM, Delray Beach, FL
05/02/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
From: Steven J Berlin, DPM, Harold W. Vogler, DPM
I read with smiles about all the wonderful things that have been said about Michael Forman! Michael was a dear friend and classmate. We both started OCPM in 1962. He was a true gentleman and scholar and will be greatly missed, particularly when I visit Cleveland. I know that all those who had a close relationship with him will also miss his presence and his opinions. I also want to give Blanche, his lovely wife and their family our love. He will be forever missed.
Steven J Berlin, DPM
I remember Michael well from the late ‘70s and early ’80s. He was a frequent speaker during these times on major podiatric symposia. He was a generous teacher and educator with novel ideas about various conditions/operations. It was great just chatting with him to pick his creative mind. He was a great guy, eager to engage and teach. He will be missed.
Harold W. Vogler, DPM
05/01/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
From: Marshall G. Solomon, DPM, Howard Dananberg, DPM
It is with great sadness that I learned of Michael Forman, DPM passing. He was a great mentor at OCPM in biomechanics and the College podiatry clinic. Truly a caring person and outstanding DPM. May his memory be a blessing. Marshall G. Solomon, DPM I was a 1975 graduate of OCPM and Dr. Forman was my first professor of biomechanics. My pursuit of this knowledge was based on the joy with which he presented. He will surely be missed. Howard Dananberg, DPM
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