03/02/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
I will miss Ben greatly; he had such a wonderful presence. He was such a pillar of our podiatric program and curriculum since 1976. Ben was a true professional, knowledgeable, and kind individual. I had the pleasure of having him as an instructor in general medicine at CCPM, a longtime colleague as a faculty member at the podiatry college, mentor, and dear friend for many years. We will miss his smile, sense of humor, passion, and kindness.
Ben was always interested in what was going on in our lives, how the family was doing, and we always talked sports (of course basketball was a priority). Ben was such a passionate educator and a true promoter of the podiatric profession and our podiatric students for so much of his career. My deepest condolences to Cindy and the family. He will be truly missed by all. Rest in peace Ben.
Tim Dutra, DPM
02/27/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of F. Don Chantiles, DPM
Dr. F. Don Chantiles, 78, passed peacefully from this life on Thursday, February 19, 2026 as a result of a year long battle with Leukemia. He graduated from the Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine in 1973 and completed his internship at St. Luke’s Hospital in Philadelphia in 1974.
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Dr. F. Don Chantiles |
He then moved home to York to open his own private practice, Beech Tree Podiatry. He retired in 2024 after 50 years of practice. He was on the staff of Memorial Hospital, York Hospital, and Apple Hill Medical Center. He was a member of the Pennsylvania Podiatric Medical Association and The Porsche Club of America.
Source: John W. Keffer Funeral Homes
02/26/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Stefan Feldman, DPM
From: Rich Blake, DPM and the KevinRoot Medical staff
Today, all of us here at KevinRoot Medical are mourning the death of a great individual, Dr. Stefan Feldman. Stefan was part of the KevinRoot Medical family for almost 20 years, beginning as one of our early clients in 2007, just months after we opened our doors. Over the years, that professional relationship grew into something much deeper. A mere 3 years ago, and almost to the day, I was introduced to Dr. Feldman, and we became instant friends. We shared weekly meetings and collaborated on the medical education for the clients of KevinRoot Medical.
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Dr. Stefan Feldman |
I knew early on of his health struggles, which he never let bring down that incredible energy and passion for what he did. I am so sorry for his loss and my greatest sympathy goes out to his family. May he rest in peace, and find strength from his love that he poured out to you all.
How do you capture the essence of a man in a few words? For one, his love for...
Editor's note: Dr. Blake's extended-length letter can be read here.
02/23/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Ben Zier. Ben was a true champion for the podiatric profession. He supported us at the local and state level. He had a great rapport with the students and taught us what we needed to know for our medicine rotations. Personally, Ben helped me through a minor health crisis while in school. I will never forget his kindness, thoughtfulness, and support.
My favorite Ben story was how he decided to go into general medicine. He was a medical student doing a surgical rotation. The surgeon asked Ben to cut the suture while closing. "Too long" the surgeon commented on the first suture. "Too short" on the second suture. Before cutting the third suture, Ben asked, "How would you like this one - too long or too short?" The surgeon asked Ben to leave the OR. That's how he decided to become an internist. I've told that story to every resident that I worked with. RIP Ben.
John M. Giurini, DPM
02/20/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2B
RE: The Passing of Bennett Zier, MD
I am sorry to hear about Dr. Bennett Zier’s passing. As a student in San Francisco, I had the chance to learn from him and also saw his care firsthand as a patient. He was a steady, thoughtful physician and a dedicated teacher who had a real impact on many of us in podiatric medicine. I’m grateful for what he taught and the example he set. My condolences to his family, colleagues, and all who knew him.
Philip Radovic, DPM
02/20/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2A
I remember taking Gen Med from Dr. Zier in podiatry school, which we jokingly called Ben Med, with affection. The course left me well prepared for residency rotations in general medicine and emergency medicine, in which I was able to function at the same level as the medical residents.
Dr. Zier related a story about when he was a resident. He told the staff that he was beginning his residency, and was there to learn as much as he could. As a result, the staff taught him a great deal. Another resident at that time came across as knowing it all, which resulted in his rotations being much more difficult to get through. I carried this advice into residency and private practice.
There are two things that I learned from Dr. Zier by direct observation of patient care in rounds with him. The first was how to determine if a patient has liver disease when the patient's hands are extended. The second was the work-up necessary to diagnose Addisonian crisis. Although I never saw either of these in private practice, I never forgot them. His passing is sad to hear, but what he has done teaching podiatry students is immeasurable.
Bart Holt, DPM, Missoula, MT
02/20/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1
Fran was the valedictorian of his class at TUSPM. He was brilliant, funny, a bit of a tough guy, and a talented surgeon. He always performed with 110% energy and intensity. I knew him from his Temple U days and we practiced at the same hospital for years. He left podiatry to become a successful financial advisor. That was a definite loss for the profession. He was a family man and a good friend and will be missed by all.
Martin Pressman, DPM
02/19/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 3
It was with sadness that I read of the passing of Dr. Zier. Whether he knew it or not, the man was my mentor. He was perhaps the perfect example of what the relationship between podiatry and the allopathic profession can and should look like.
He taught me what it means to be collegial, kind, and patient. His kindness is what I will always remember him for. His generous nature touched his students and his patients. I am forever grateful for his example of human compassion and dignity.
Daniel Jones, DPM, Casper, WY
02/19/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2
Fran was one of my legendary attendings and I remember how the residents would contend with one another to cover his surgeries. It was never dull! The first case I scrubbed with him, it was just the two of us. It was a tibial nail, something not in the common cases we were used to back then. But for him it was just another day in the OR.
I remember that we had a great discussion about the literature that day. He taught me to have confidence if it was backed up by skill and knowledge. Wise words from a man who had all these qualities.
V. Kathleen Satterfield, DPM
02/19/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1
Tom was a classmate of mine at the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine, along with his brother George and my brother Gary. You couldn't find a nicer guy than Tom. He will be missed. May his memory be a blessing.
Robert Scott Steinberg, DPM, Schaumburg, IL
02/19/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Lorne Alec Zielaskowski, DPM
Lorne Alec Zielaskowski, DPM, 55, of Alpena passed away Saturday, February 14, 2026, at MyMichigan Medical Center – Alpena. Lorne earned his podiatric medical degree at the Kent State University College Of Podiatric Medicine.
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Dr. Lorne Zielaskowski |
Lorne co-owned and operated Northern Foot and Ankle for 20 years until his retirement in 2022. He enjoyed golfing, NASCAR, football, and was a huge U of M fan.
Source: True North Radio Network [2/16/26]
02/18/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 3
The passing of Ben Zier brought back incredible memories of working with him for 39 years until I retired. Ben came to the California college of Podiatric Medicine following his residency in primary care at UCSF to assume the role of Chaiman of the Department of Medicine. He was dedicated to the medical education of podiatric students so they could hold their own when practicing our profession.
He was a role model as a medical educator and our profession is the beneficiary of his relentless role of providing the necessary medical knowledge we needed to succeed in practice. He was a friend as well as being the primary care provider for me and my wife until we retired. Our condolences to his wife Cindy and their family.
Joshua Gerbert, DPM, Kamuela, HI
02/18/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2
Fran Lynch was a good guy, a very capable surgeon, a thought leader in his day, and a person with a great sense of humor. He trained under James Ganley, DPM. When he left podiatry to follow other career options, it was a loss to the profession.
Allen M. Jacobs, DPM
02/18/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
RE: The Passing of Arnold Signer, DPM, The Passing of Stuart Alan Courtney, DPM
It’s a sad day to see two friends and colleagues listed in the obituaries. Arnie Signer served in the APMA delegates with me for many years. He was a friend and trusted individual. It was always fun to reunite at the HOD and elsewhere.
Stu Courtney was a classmate at NYCPM 1974. When I needed emergency orthopedic surgery, his son arrived. We chatted a bit and established my connection. Stu and I talked several times thereafter. His son is still my orthopedist.
May they both rest in peace.
Lloyd Smith, DPM
02/18/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
This most recent publication of PM News was very disturbing to see so many very active podiatrists I have been familiar with pass away. I have regularly spoken to and emailed Dr. Arnold Signer who I have been good friends with for 50 years. He was a genuine individual and an excellent podiatrist. He will be greatly missed by the Florida Podiatry Association. I would like to send my deepest sympathy to his wife and family.
Steven J Berlin, DPM
I was very sad that my dear friend Arnie Signer passed away last week. I have known Arnie for over 63 years when we started college together at Emory University in 1963 in Atlanta. We became close friends and fraternity brothers. After College, Arnie went to OCPM in Cleveland and I went to PCPM in Philly. Arnie ended up practicing in Jackson for many years and I in DC.
In 1996, Arnie and his good friend Biff Kramer helped me get elected to the APMA Board of Trustees. He was a dear friend and colleague. We kept in touch all these years. Arnie was active in Florida PMA and a Delegate to the APMA House of Delegates for over 20 years. I will miss him very much. May you Rest in Peace my dear friend, rest in peace.
Harold B. Glickman, DPM
02/18/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Thomas V. Tsoutsouris, DPM
Thomas V. Tsoutsouris, DPM passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on February 10, 2026. Tom was 87 years old.
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Dr. Thomas Tsoutsouris |
He graduated from the Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in 1975 and practiced in Hammond, Indiana for many years.
Source: Hallowell & James Funeral Home
02/17/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
From: John Mozena, DPM, Ira R. Cohen, DPM
My wife was Dr. Zier’s office manager and she said that he was a great boss at CCPM. He was always so hospitable, inviting us to meals at Dr. Boyce Smith’s home. I used to play and get obliterated by him in basketball. He was always smiling like the photo shown. I wish I could thank him now for all the great things he did for us and the profession! RIP to a truly good man!
John Mozena, DPM
What an amazing individual. I learned a lot from him. He was kind, humorous, and dedicated to the students. So young. Such a loss.
Ira R. Cohen, DPM, Boca Raton, FL
02/17/2026
OBITUARIES - PART 3
RE: The Passing of Stuart Alan Courtney, DPM
Dr. Stuart Courtney passed away at the age of 76. A podiatrist who practiced for 50 years, Stuart devoted his life to his family, friends, and community.
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Dr. Stuart Courtney |
He was a true leader, having served terms as the President of the Young Israel of Hollywood and the Broward County Podiatric Medical Association.
Source: Levitt-Weinstein Memorial Chapels and Cemeteries at Beth David [2/14/26]
02/17/2026
OBITUARIES - PART 2
RE: The Passing of Francis "Fran" Lynch, DPM
Francis "Fran" Lynch, age 71, of North Haven, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at his home on February 9, 2026. In 2023, he received a lung transplant, a milestone his family regarded as a "miracle" that allowed him additional years to spend with his loved ones.
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Dr. Francis Lynch |
Dr. Lynch received his doctorate from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, dedicating many years to his work as a podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon. While medicine was an important chapter of his life, Fran later found his true calling as a financial planner. He was highly accomplished and deeply respected as a lecturer, mentor, and leader.
Source: North Haven Funeral Home via Dr. Glenn Vitale
02/17/2026
OBITUARIES - PART 1
RE: The Passing of Arnold Signer, DPM
On February 9, 2026, Dr. Arnold Victor Signer, age 81, passed away peacefully in Orlando, Florida, surrounded by family and love. Arnie graduated from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine.
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Dr. Arnold Signer |
Arnie was a retired podiatrist who practiced in both South Florida and Jacksonville, Florida. He served as the President of the Florida Podiatric Medical Association for two years, and he enjoyed his profession and keeping up with colleagues.
Source: Beth Shalom Memorial Chapel via Dr. Ronald Lepow
02/16/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Michael Lee Simons, DPM
It is with heartfelt sadness that I share the loss of a beloved colleague on Sept. 28, 2025. Dr. Michael Simons, a graduate of the California College of Podiatric Medicine, practiced in Orange County, California for over 50 years. He was a mentor to many and a friend to all. He was considered by many to be the godfather of podiatry in Orange County due to his hospital and podiatry political activism.
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Dr. Michael Simons |
He was a man of great character and wit who was loved and respected by his patients. He is survived by his wife, Judy Simons, children and grandchildren. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and he will be missed by all who knew him. May his memory be a blessing.
Richard Jaffe, DPM
02/16/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Bennett Zier, MD
Dr. Bennett G. Zier, 79, passed away peacefully at his home in San Francisco, California, on December 24, 2025. Dr. Zier earned his medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1971.
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Dr. Bennett Zier |
In 1976, Ben joined the California College of Podiatric Medicine, where he was appointed Chairman of the Department of General Medicine. He contributed significantly to the field of podiatric medicine, becoming a nationally recognized expert in internal medicine within podiatry and publishing the seminal textbook in the field, Essentials of Internal Medicine in Clinical Podiatry.
Source: Legacy.com
02/11/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Bennie Bud Weber, DPM
Bennie Bud Weber, a longtime Lodi resident, devoted father and grandfather, and respected podiatrist, passed away on January 19, 2026, at the age of 78. He was tragically killed while cycling, doing what he loved.
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Dr. Bennie Weber |
Bennie practiced podiatry in Lodi for many years, caring for his patients with skill and integrity. He was deeply loved by his family and was incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren. An avid cyclist, Bennie found joy and peace outdoors.
Source: Legacy.com
02/02/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Michael J. Miller, DPM
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved friend and family member Michael Miller, 80. Cherished by all who knew him, he brought warmth, kindness, and laughter into every room. His legacy of compassion and generosity will live on in the hearts of those whose lives he touched. We celebrate his remarkable life and honor the memories we shared together.
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Dr. Michael Miller |
Mike attended the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine from 1963-1967. He was Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery. Mike was involved with numerous podiatric boards and was instrumental in reviewing and updating podiatric medical textbooks.
Source: Texas Podiatric Medical Association
01/31/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Jamie LeAnn Hall-Jasper, DPM
Dr. Jaime LeAnn Hall-Jasper, 42, of Whitman, WV, wife of Scott Jasper, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, January 23, 2026.
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Dr. Jamie Hall-Jasper |
Dr. Hall-Jasper earned her podiatric medical degree from the Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine and previously practiced in West Virginia.
Source: Legacy.com
