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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.
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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
Other messages in this thread:
09/08/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
I am so saddened to hear about the passing of Dr. Robert Eckles. I had the pleasure of working with him at NYCPM for many years. Bob took over my job as Dean of clinical education. He will be remembered for his intelligence, superior understanding of bio mechanics and his caring for patients. My condolences to his family and all the hundreds of students he impacted.
Terry L. Spilken, DPM
09/06/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2
I was fortunate enough to spend time with Terry Lichty in my senior year at ICPM. He was very generous with his time as he tutored me in his office and at the Illinois State Penitentiary at Joliet. With his leadership, I and several of my classmates were able to perform more procedures than most people did in a year of residency. I fondly remember the dinners that we enjoyed after our rotation at the penitentiary. RIP Terry.
Michael DiGiacomo, DPM
09/06/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1
Dr. Eckles was truly an exemplary individual and a devoted educator who consistently strived for the betterment of his students and residents. His kindness was truly exceptional, and his absence will be profoundly felt.
Reem Sheikh, DPM
Dr. Trepal has well-expressed the impact Dr. Robert Eckles had on NYCPM and the profession. As a close friend of mine, I will add that Bob’s loss is the world’s as well. When Bob first arrived at NYCPM, we worked side-by-side in clinic and I came to know him very well. I immediately appreciated his teaching style with our 3rd year students: knowledgeable, patient, and humorous. As we became friends, I also enjoyed and respected his well-roundedness. As we discussed topics as diverse as neurologist Oliver Sacks and the movie Koyaanisqatsi, I always walked away feeling Bob was more than a teacher and podiatrist. He was a humanist and freethinker in the best sense.
As deans, I got to know him as a true leader. He was always reflective, diplomatic, and succinct. He was one who got the job done in the most effective way, with the least amount of fuss. Always clear-thinking and on-target, Bob was an asset on any project or interaction. As a friend, I got to know his family: Jeanne, Maude (Frances), and Freeman. My heart goes out to them but I'm comforted that they were able to be with Bob near the end. As similar free-spirits, I know they will carry on Bob’s incredible zest for life.
Dr. Eckles leaves a legacy of students and residents who no doubt are aware of how well he trained them and how much he cared about them, all while being approachable on a personal level. Anyone who knows him, knows beer was his relaxation drink of choice. Bob wouldn’t want anyone to mourn his loss but rather celebrate his life, so at this sad time, raise a glass to a truly one-of-a-kind person. I will miss my friend dearly.
Laurence J. Lowy, DPM
09/04/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2
The T-Screw, the ultimate compression screw. A great invention by TK Lichty, DPM. It was an honor to be one of his residents.
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The T Screw |
I'll always consider T as one of the greatest teachers in podiatric medicine.
Jeff Pellersels, DPM
09/04/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1
RE: The Passing of Robert Arthur Eckles, DPM, MPH
It is with profound sorrow and sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Bob Eckles following an acute and serious illness. Upon his arrival at NYCPM in 2003, Bob quickly established himself as a popular professor and noted clinician in the Department of Orthopedic Sciences. His command of the subject area and his ability to explain in comprehensible terms allowed him to train generations of students and residents. Bob's administrative skills were put to good use in his later roles of Dean for Clinical Education, Dean for Graduate Medical Education, and Residency Director.
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Dr. Robert Eckles |
Upon his retirement from NYCPM in 2021, he returned to where he had lived in New Zealand and remained active in education and the biomechanical arena. NYCPM and the entire podiatric profession have been blessed through the efforts and contributions of Dr. Eckles. He leaves behind his beloved wife Jeanne and two children, Frances and Freeman. May he rest in peace.
Michael J Trepal, DPM, Dean, NYCPM at Touro University
09/03/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
I am so disappointed to learn of Terry's death. He was one year in front of me at the old Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine on Clark Street. Terry was the consummate gentleman. His quiet disarming demeanor won favor with all who knew him. He was a common sense guy who made clear common sense arguments on surgical controversies that were often tough to defeat. Terry was easy to be around and truly represented the best of the profession.
Harold W Vogler, DPM
08/25/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
From: Aaron Solomon, DPM
I am saddened to hear of the death of Dr. Shaw. Like many in our profession, the suddenness of the tragic circumstances of his death have left me in stunned disbelief. It has been over 20 years since I finished my residency in Atlanta. I had the privilege of learning under several attending physicians; including Drs. Shaw, Doug Elleby, and Mark Light who recently shared some of his thoughts on Dr. Shaw's passing a few days ago. It was a demanding year, but an incredible learning experience. What I learned from Dr. Shaw guides me in the OR and the office to this day.
Not only was he a skilled surgeon and knowledgeable teacher, he was a fearless advocate for our profession. As the fight for parity continues to this day, he was one of the first to help to knock down the walls of professional discrimination; fighting these battles in the courts to challenge discriminatory hospital by-laws. His contributions to the education include his time with the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, where he served as ACFAS president in 1992. Beyond medicine and surgery, he was an avid fly fisherman, and he often spoke of his love of fishing and Montana. My condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. Our profession has lost a great teacher and physician, and I have lost a mentor.
Aaron Solomon, DPM, Fort Oglethorpe, GA
08/22/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Alan Shaw, DPM
I have been having a difficult time processing the accidental death of Alan Shaw who was a very special long-time friend and colleague. I had known Alan since he began podiatry school in San Francisco, and then he followed me in our residency at Highland General Hospital in Oakland, California. Then through the years, we served on many APMA committes together. About 30 years ago, Alan introduced me to the art of flyfishing which I will cherish forever. During those 30 years, I would travel to the Bighorn River on the Crow Indian Reservation in Montana every year for 5 days of flyfishing.
Some years, I would make several trips to fish with him. Whenever I fished a California river, I made the guide understand that we would be flyfishing, not bait fishing. He was devoted to all causes related to preservation of our rivers and helping with the lives of the Crow Indians. He will be greatly missed but I know that he was the happiest when fishing for the large rainbows on the Bighorn.
Josh Gerbert, DPM, Kamuela, HI
08/20/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Alan Shaw, DPM
I would like to share some comments regarding the passing of Alan Shaw. He and Doug Elleby gave me, along with many others, my first job in the Atlanta metropolitan area. He was involved in the leadership of the American College of Foot and Ankle surgeons, and his relationship with Gary Kaplan, who was involved in my residency program led me to this opportunity. Working in this practice taught me how to practice podiatry and manage the business of running a podiatry practice. This gave me the confidence and skills needed when it came time for me to run my solo practice.
Alan was instrumental in getting privileges in hospitals in Georgia by suing the local hospital that was denying him staff privileges. The change in the law from this suit benefited every podiatrist in the state from his actions. He was an innovator in managed care when HMOs or capitated plans became prevalent, by creating networks of doctors to participate in, and managing these plans. He moved to Montana when he retired to pursue his passion of skiing and fishing. He passed while doing one of the things he most loved doing. I am forever grateful for the opportunity he provided to me and the countless other doctors in Georgia.
Mark Light, DPM, Marietta, GA
08/19/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Robert M. Ritchey, DPM
Rob did not want an obituary. He did not want a memorial. However, I have come to the realization that I need to share the extraordinary impact of my husband's presence on this earth. His artwork was on par with even the most skilled masters.
Having a life long fascination with human behavior, Rob wrote novels reflecting this genre. In his words, "From Purple Mountain Majesty to the Krebs cycle, it is all a beautiful dance. The universe must have danced with joy when reuniting with your indomitable energy, my darling. You are loved and will be deeply missed."
Source: Cape Cod Times
08/16/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Alan Shaw, DPM (Gary Dorfman, DPM)
When I heard about Alan’s passing, it gave me great pause. Our relationship goes back to CCPM and then he followed as a resident at Highland hospital in Oakland California. We kept in touch over the years and he was planning to stay with us in Sun Valley and fish Silver Creek with me on his way to visit his kids and grandchildren on the West Coast in September.
Sure, he was a wonderful physician and surgeon, but more importantly, Alan was a mensch. A good man in every respect. He died doing what he loved and that was fly fishing the rivers of Montana. To his wife Marilyn, adult kids, grandchildren, and all that had the gift of knowing him: May Alan’s memory be a blessing.
Alan was a podiatric Teddy Roosevelt. While he was one of the most driven and motivated professionals, his passion was always for America’s public lands and waters, and the experiences they afforded everyone. He spent decades committed to their preservation and working to improve the lives of the communities closest to them. He devoted countless volunteer hours with the Sierra Club, served on the Yellowstone Association board which focuses on the preservation and education of Yellowstone National Park, was a driving force behind the Upper Missouri Watershed Alliance’s mission, chaired the Fort Smith Water and Sewer District, and was a tremendous partner to the Bighorn River Alliance and tribal communities. RIP my friend.
Tilden Sokoloff, MD, DPM, Ketchum, ID
08/15/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2
Brett was someone who was always trustworthy, someone who could be depended on, someone who made work feel more human. May we remember him with love because our lives have become richer and more meaningful for having known him. His memory lives on with his amazing wife Mary Ann and loving family, the community he uplifted, and the countless lives he touched.
ζω? σε σας, may his memory be forever eternal!
Zacharia Facaros, DPM
08/15/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1
RE: The Passing of Alan Shaw, DPM
I am profoundly saddened by the passing of Alan Shaw, DPM, a Past President of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgery, an icon in our profession.
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Dr. Alan Shaw |
When we speak of the podiatrists upon whose shoulders we stand in the advancing of podiatric surgery, Alan will be remembered by his peers as a surgeon of immense talent, an innovator, an educator, and a podiatrist dedicated to the advancement of podiatry's standing within the practice of medicine.
Gary Dorfman, DPM, Dana Point, CA
08/14/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Brett Allan Chicko, DPM
Dr. Chicko, Class of 2001 at TUSPM, always had a smile on his face—never a bad word to say. He had the best laugh and was truly a gentle giant. From the moment we met in podiatry school, he was a source of strength and encouragement. I still remember him taking me down to the gym, sharing his workout, and always cheering me on—both in and out of school. His life was cut far too short, but his energy, kindness, and spirit will live on in all of us who knew him. You will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Brett.
Khurram Khan, DPM
08/07/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Robert J. Scardina, DPM
I was so saddened to hear of Rob Scardina’s passing. He was a wonderful representative of podiatric medicine everywhere he went. It was a real pleasure to have worked with him over the years and he will be sorely missed. RIP Rob.
Howard Dananberg, DPM, Stowe, VT
07/12/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
From: Elliot Udell, DPM
I am saddened, like so many of us, to hear of the passing of Dennis Shavelson. Dennis and I lectured at many seminars. What strikes me about him is how dedicated he was to the art of biomechanics. For many years, he owned his own lab and would run seminars at his lab. My last conversation with him was when he called me and let me know that he would coach me on biomechanics.
He also let me know that he no longer had his lab, but was solely interested in promoting all that he had learned about it to as many of his colleagues as possible. That was real dedication.
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY
07/10/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
From: Daniel Chaskin, DPM, Paul Kesselman, DPM
I am saddened by Dr. Shavelson's death. He helped so many students learn about our fine podiatry profession.
Daniel Chaskin, DPM
I am quite saddened to hear about the passing of Dennis Shavelson both as a friend from yesteryear and a mentor. Back in the late seventies and early 1980s, as everyone knows, there were way more graduates of podiatry school than there were residency programs. Dennis opened his office to a surgical/biomechanical preceptorship through NYCPM. This enabled many students who did not match but nevertheless were in the top of their class to receive post-graduate training of one- or two-years duration. His program prepared many who eventually either went on to match in residency programs, or prepared them to thrive in private or institutional practice. Due to his diligent teaching and the caseloads preceptors handled, most of his students were taught the skills needed to eventually log sufficient cases, enabling them to receive surgical or orthopedic board certification.
In 1981, he had two practices in the South Bronx which catered primarily to the...
Editor's note: Dr. Kesselman's extended-length letter can be read here
06/30/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
I am so saddened to hear of Joe’s passing. Not only were we classmates; we had recently become reconnected while at conferences in Chicago. He was a gentle soft-spoken man, but he spoke his mind when necessary and made his point clear. He will be missed by all that were fortunate to have known him. My sincere condolences go out to his family and friends. RIP Joe.
Thomas A. Graziano, DPM, MD, Clifton, NJ
06/27/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
RE: The Passing of Joseph Carbone, DPM
Uncertain of what I wanted to do with my biology degree (and being rather confused) in what medical degree I should attain after graduation from St. John Fisher College (SJFC), Rochester, NY in 1984, I needed some guidance. After attending a required monthly college colloquium while attending my senior year at SJFC, a local podiatrist spoke to our class regarding choosing this profession as an occupation. I found that it might be an option as a medical career. However, it was Dr. Joseph Carbone (alum of St. John Fisher College,’75/Scholl College ‘79 and not the speaker) that I was referred to by my pre-med counselor (Bachelor of Science). He certainly set me straight on what the profession was all about and how I could make a good living without sacrificing family and a good work-life balance.
Many times, he let me visit his office prior to entering podiatry school, allowing me to observe everything podiatry. I was intrigued not only by the day-to-day operations of the practice, the variety of foot and ankle conditions he treated, but mostly by the...
Editor's note: Dr. Borreggine's extended-length letter can be read here.
06/27/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
I am extremely saddened by the news of the passing of Dr. Joseph Carbone. Not only was he a dedicated podiatric practitioner but was elected and re-elected to the Monroe County Legislature.
His big heart and smile are equally matched by his wonderful sense of humor. I so enjoyed our get togethers at both the Rochester and Buffalo Seminars over the last 35+ years. RIP my friend .
Kenneth T. Goldstein, DPM
So sad to learn of the recent passing of my friend Joseph Carbone, DPM. Joe was more than a colleague, he was a truly remarkable person, a friend, and a dedicated doctor who brought compassion and integrity to everything he did. His sharp mind, kind spirit, and infectious humor made him someone everyone gravitated toward.
During our years at the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine, Joe, Hartley Miltchin, Stanley Blondek, Severko Hrwynak, and I always sat together in lectures, forming a bond that lasted far beyond graduation. Our breakfast and lunch outings in Chicago were moments of laughter, support, and genuine friendships, some of the best memories I carry from those formative four years. I will miss him. Rest in peace, my friend.
Thomas Bembynista, DPM
06/26/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Joseph L Carbone, DPM
Dr. Joseph L Carbone, passed away this June 23, 2025. He was a dedicated MIS podiatric physician and surgeon who practiced in Rochester NY for 42 years. Dr. Carbone was president of the American College of Podiatric Physicians and Surgeons. He served as president of the Monroe county legislation, Chief of Podiatry, Podiatric Residency Director, and Division Chief at all Rochester hospitals.
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Dr. Joseph Carbone |
He was very active politically, fighting for a plenary license for podiatric physicians. A valued community member, his legacy of compassion and excellence will be deeply missed.
Hartley Miltchin DPM, Stanley Blondek, DPM, MD and Severko Hrwynak, DPM, MD
06/24/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
A light-hearted story: I did not know Dr. McGlamry personally but I remember attending one of his lectures where he introduced himself in his classical southern drawl as follows:
"My name is Dalton McGlamry and I'm from Atlanta. Some of you may not know where Atlanta is, so I will tell you. When you leave Atlanta, then you're in GEORGIA!" I have always treasured that opening.
Joel Lang, DPM (retired), Cheverly, MD
06/20/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
From: Paul Kesselman, DPM
Over the past several days since the announcement of Dr. McGlamry's passing, many national officials from podiatry organizations have written to bestow amazing tributes to this great man. Today, I would like to share some comments from a time when I was a solo practitioner newly in practice who was confronted with a very challenging case. Dr. McGlamry bestowed a collegial helpful hand to someone with little surgical experience just shortly after my completing post-graduate training. The patient was an IDDM male in his mid-50s with bilateral Charcot foot who was told by HHS and Joint Disease here in NY that he required a BKA.
With much anticipation and with a bit of anxiety, I called Dr. McGlamry's office, informed them of my patient's issues, and shortly thereafter he called me back. I expected someone with his professional reputation to be rather obnoxious, conceited, and difficult to deal with. What I found was exactly the opposite. I found a man who was...
Editor's note: Dr. Kesselman's extended-length letter can be read here.
06/20/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
From: Elliot Udell, DPM
Many of us are not aware of how much Dr. McGlamry did for the entire profession. At his prime, most podiatrists were first learning how to do the very basics in foot surgery. Residencies were rare and most of our colleagues graduated from podiatry school and went directly into private practice. He lectured all over the country at seminars.
Dr. McGlamry wrote a text which for many was the bible of foot surgery. In addition, he ran a mini residency in Atlanta where doctors, including me, would spend several weeks in order to learn anything from basic podiatry to advanced foot procedures. Dr. McGlamry also made himself available to any of us who needed guidance on how to handle a case. May his memory be a role model for others.
Elliot Udell, DPM, Hicksville, NY
06/19/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
From: Mark Feldman, DPM
And so now 54 years later, we gather together to honor and attempt to find some way to express our gratitude to our founder Dr. E Dalton McGlamry (EDM), his 2 partners and 10 colleagues ...names….who through his individual leadership and individual lifetime devotion to the education of podiatric surgeons has produced the 170 podiatric surgeons present here. Our podiatric Halstead, Thomas Hale Ham, Gray, Osler, Ilizarov, Koefoed, and so many others in whose company he belongs.
Because of EDM, we became chiefs of surgery at several of the 11 colleges. We opened podiatry slots in the Division of Research in Medical Education at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, for the M.S. in medical education, developed podiatric surgical residency opportunities in the Czech...
Editor's note: Dr. Feldman's extended-length letter can be read here.This letter was part of a Podiatry Institute tribute to Dr. McGlamry earlier this year.
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