|
|
|
|
|
Search
08/06/2024
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Larrie Rockmacher, DPM
Dr. Larrie Rockmacher, 82, of Boynton Beach, Florida, died on July 23, 2024, in Mt. Kisco, New York, near his place of work, where he had commuted from Florida weekly for the past 22 years.
 |
Dr. Larrie Rockmacher |
He earned his podiatric medical degree at The New York College of Podiatric Medicine in Manhattan in 1965, where he was also Class President for four years. Larrie began practicing in Mt. Kisco, New York, where he continued working until the day he passed.
Source: John G Crawford Memorial Services [7/31/24]
Other messages in this thread:
06/02/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Darall J. Moore, DPM
Darall J. Moore, DPM, 71, was granted his angel wings on May 9, 2026. Dr. Moore spent his life as a dedicated podiatrist in the local community. The years at his family practice with his late wife, Regina, were extremely fulfilling.
 |
Dr. Darall Moore |
A lifelong resident of St. Petersburg, Dr. Moore took great pride in serving and uplifting the community that shaped him, building lasting relationships and touching generations of families through both his profession and personal kindness.
Source: Legacy.com
05/29/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of David M. Ellis, DPM
David M. Ellis, DPM, age 75, died on Monday, May 25, 2026 at his home of more than 40 years in Zanesville, Ohio from complications of Parkinson's disease dementia. Dave was a graduate of the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine in Cleveland. Dave eventually returned to Zanesville and established his own practice, serving the communities of both his hometown and Cambridge for over 35 years until illness forced his retirement.
 |
Dr. David Ellis |
Dave served on the boards of the Zanesville Concert Association and the Zanesville Museum of Art, and also as president of the Zanesville Country Club. The ZCC golf course became his second home, a place where he found solace, friendship and three club championships. He had three holes in one during his playing days and in 2022 was inducted into the ZDGA Hall of Fame.
Source: Zanesville Times Recorder [5/27/26]
05/28/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENT (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Marchelle L. Suppan, DPM
Dr. Marchelle L. Suppan of Orrville passed away Sunday, May 24, 2026 at the age of 71 after a long and courageous battle with brain cancer. Shellee was a 1980 graduate of the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine and completed a two year surgical residency program at Toledo Riverside Hospital. Shellee along with her father Ray Suppan, DPM, Sr. have trained hundreds of podiatric residents over the years at Dunlap Hospital in Orrville.
 |
Dr. Marchelle Suppan |
Shellee was the first female president of the Ohio Foot & Ankle Medical Association and she opened the door for many other female presidents who followed in her foot steps. After her retirement from podiatry, Shellee became the President and CEO of the Aultman Medical Group. In 2018, Shellee was inducted into the Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine Hall of Fame.
Richard Hofacker, DPM, Akron, OH
05/20/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Robert C. Purdy, DPM
Robert “Bob” or “Rocky” Purdy to his folks, 84, was a dedicated and well respected podiatrist in the Maumee and Toledo, Ohio area until the time of his retirement. He went on to run numerous business ventures after that and was a longtime proud member of The Rotary Club.
 |
Dr. Robert Purdy |
Professionally, Bob’s journey started at Ohio College of Medicine after 2 years of undergrad at University of Louisville. He interned in Youngstown, OH and proceeded to open a podiatry practice for 3 years before joining a group practice in Paducah, KY. He then moved to Maumee, OH and started a solo practice before opening a practice in Toledo, OH.
Source: Jones Kenney Zechman Funeral Home
05/18/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Stephen J. Ferro, DPM
Dr. Stephen J. Ferro, 84, of Topeka, passed from this life on the evening of Thursday, May 7, 2026, at his beloved and long-time home on Lake Sherwood, surrounded by family who loved him deeply. He graduated from University High School in 1959, earned his degree from Long Beach State University, and received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from the School of Podiatric Medicine in San Francisco. From 1964 to 1966, he served his country honorably in the United States Army as a medical technician.
 |
Dr. Stephen Ferro |
In 1978, Dr. Ferro was hand-selected to establish a Podiatry Department for the VA Hospital in Topeka, KS. As a veteran himself, he dedicated his thirty-five-year career to caring for his fellow veterans. He retired in 2013.
Source: Dove Funeral Home
05/06/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Gary Royce Ridge, DPM
Gary Royce Ridge, 79, passed away on April 27, 2026. He earned his doctorate in podiatric medicine at the California College of Podiatric Medicine in San Francisco, CA, where he earned his degree in podiatry. He then did a residency at Good Samaritan Hospital in Anaheim, CA.
 |
Dr. Gary Ridge |
Following his training, Gary practiced foot and ankle surgery as a podiatrist in Orem, Utah and was board certified. He was respected for his skill, his steady manner, and the care he gave to those he served. Through his work, he brought relief, mobility, and hope to countless people.
Source: Herald Extra [5/4/26]
05/01/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
My deepest condolences to Dr. Gerry Gorecki, my past Director at the West Haven VA Hospital Podiatric Residency program, and still serving with the Yale New Haven Hospital Podiatric Residency program, on the passing of his brother Richard. I had the pleasure of working with Richard in the past years, both at the West Haven VA during my residency, and in his office in Madison, CT. Richard was dedicated to his practice and the VA Hospital.
R.I.P. Richard and thank you for leaving your accomplishments in our profession.
Glenn C. Vitale, DPM, West Haven, CT
04/29/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Ernest Lee Mollohan, DPM, DO
Dr. Ernest Lee Mollohan, 77, of Tuscumbia, Alabama, beloved husband, father, grandfather, dedicated physician, and Vietnam veteran passed away on April 25, 2026. Ernie was a proud Marine and served in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Medal, and Good Conduct Medal.
 |
Dr. Ernest Mollohan |
He was a 1983 graduate of Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine and a 1994 graduate of A.T. Still University in Kirksville, MO, where he earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. After completing his medical training, he rejoined the military as an Army physician and served on base in Germany for a short time in the 1990s.
Source: Morrison Funeral Home
04/28/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Richard Thomas Gorecki, DPM
Richard Thomas Gorecki, lovingly known as “Ricky from Chicago”, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026, at the age of 76, following a courageous battle with cancer.
 |
Dr. Richard Gorecki |
Rick practiced podiatry in Madison for over 40 years, building his own practice. He also spent many years working at the VA Hospital, where he took great pride in caring for veterans. In addition to his medical career, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy Reserves for 30 years, retiring with the rank of Commander.
Source: Swan Funeral Home
04/27/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Peter Brian Wood, DPM
Dr. Peter Brian Wood, 55, beloved, husband, father, son, brother, friend, and physician passed away on March 1, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer. He attended podiatric medical school at Barry University. Following his graduation, he was an intern and surgical resident in podiatric medicine at Cedar Sinai/University of Miami Hospital. In 2002, he entered private practice at Baylor University Medical Center, becoming chief of podiatry.
 |
Dr. Peter Wood |
He greatly treasured his friendships with his colleagues, administration, personnel, and people from every area of the hospital, and he dearly loved his patients. Peter’s greatest joy was his family. With his wife, Kristen, and his daughters, Christina and Angela, many family traditions were born.
Source: TPMA
04/20/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Andrew “Drew” Black, DPM
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Andrew “Drew” Black, who passed away on April 10, 2026, at the age of 69, surrounded by his loving family. Drew’s passing comes after a sudden and unexpected diagnosis of a rare and aggressive cancer.
|
Dr. Andrew Black |
He graduated from Temple University School of Medicine in 1983. He was a board-certified podiatrist and certified wound specialist with surgical training from Kern Hospital.
Source: Star Gazette [4/17/26]
04/14/2026
REPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
It is with sadness that my wife and I received the news of Ed Smith's passing. When I relocated to Claremont, NH, a neighboring community, Ed was a welcoming colleague. We send prayers and warm thoughts and wish his family well.
John A. Parent, DPM
04/13/2026
OBITUARIES - PART 2
RE: The Passing of Robert "Bob" Garber, DPM
Robert "Bob" Garber, age 78, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and podiatrist, passed away on April 5, 2026. Before his medical career, Bob answered the call of service, proudly serving in the United States Air Force, with postings in Denver, Colorado, and Dover, Delaware.
 |
Dr. Robert Garber |
Dr. Garber earned his podiatric medicine degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, embarking on a career defined by quiet dedication and genuine care for others. He served as a podiatrist for approximately 2.5 years at the New Orleans VA Hospital before beginning a remarkable 30-year tenure at the VA Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware — a career built on serving those who had served their country.
Source: Delaware Online
04/13/2026
OBITUARIES - PART 1
RE: The Passing of Edward Patrick Smith Jr., DPM
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Dr. Edward Patrick Smith, Jr., age 75, on April 5th, 2026. Ed received his doctorate from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. In 1980, Ed, his wife Claudia and their first child, Meghan, moved to Springfield, VT due to a shared love of the mountains and to begin his podiatry practice.
 |
Dr. Edward Smith, Jr. |
Ed proudly gained surgical privileges at Springfield Hospital, the first podiatrist in Vermont to do so. He served as president of the Vermont Podiatric Medical Board for several terms, as well as holding other executive positions within the organization over the years. Ed was a member of OPEIU (Office and Professional Employees International Union), Local 45. He, working along with VPMA and OPEIU, was instrumental in getting the scope of medical practice expanded for podiatrists in Vermont.
Source: Legacy.com
04/09/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of Patrick A. McShane, DPM
Patrick A. McShane, age 72, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026. He lived a life defined by dedication to his profession, service to others, and a tireless commitment to advancing medical care for patients and physicians across Missouri and beyond.
 |
Dr. Patrick McShane |
Dr. McShane graduated from the Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in 1991. Following graduation, he established a private podiatric practice that served communities throughout Springfield, Bolivar, West Plains, and Mountain View for more than 33 years. He served as President of the Missouri Podiatric Medical Association, working alongside state leaders, including Governor Mel Carnahan, to help pass legislation that advanced medical care and strengthened the practice of podiatry within the state.
Source: Legacy.com
04/08/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2
I read of the passing of Hal Ornstein with tremendous sadness. Like so many in the podiatry world, Hal had a tremendous impact on my career in my early professional years. Whether it was making you feel comfortable at your first AAPPM show by a piano in the Pittsburg Airport Marriott or talking management strategy with his dog in his lap and a smile by the pool at Lago Mar, Hal possessed an innate gift for connecting people and sharing his passion for podiatry. He will forever be a pillar of the podiatry community (both for physicians and vendors alike), and his impact was immeasurable. Cheers and RIP.
Nick Turner, Co-CEO of Remy Laser
04/08/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1
Clay was a roommate of mine in the early 1970s. He was a quiet gentleman. He was also a chef. As students, we ate very well during that time. He was willing to cook, as long as we cleaned up.
Paul Taylor, DPM
04/08/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of David P Steed, DPM
David Steed passed on March 19, 2026 at the age of 88 at the Savannah Memorial Hospital located in Savannah, Georgia. David served in the Navy from 1956 to 1959 as a Navy diver.
 |
Dr. David Steed |
After college, he attended the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago, Illinois, where he graduated as a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. His residency was at Northlake Hospital in Chicago, IL. He loved skydiving and logged over 100 jumps.
Source: Legacy.com
04/07/2026
OBITUARIES
The Passing of William Clayton "Clay" Cooper, DPM
Dr. William Clayton "Clay" Cooper, of East Sandwich, Massachusetts, has passed away at the age of 80. In his early years, Clay developed a strong work ethic while spending long days working and driving tractors on his family's apple orchard. This dedication carried throughout his life and into a distinguished career in podiatry, where he faithfully served his patients for more than 50 years.
 |
Dr. William Cooper |
Clay's unwavering dedication to his patients and his profession reflected a man who found deep meaning in caring for others. He will be remembered as a brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, known affectionately as Papa, Poppy, and Captain.
Source: Legacy.com
04/06/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENT (OBITUARIES)
I grew up in Rochester, NY and as a youngster, I became friends with David’s younger brother Richard. I kept in touch with Richard over the years, and when I established my podiatry practice in Ithaca, NY, I began to get to know David through professional meetings. I also practiced in nearby Cortland, NY with my then brother-in-law and still close friend Andrew Chernow, DPM. Podiatrists in that community did not have surgical privileges at the local hospital.
When I applied for surgical privileges at Cortland’s hospital, David made a special trip to Cortland to meet with the administrative staff and spoke to them on my behalf. Thanks to David Chazan, both Andy and I received surgical privileges at Cortland’s hospital.
My deepest condolences go to the Chazan family who have lost a beloved family member and to the Rochester community who will miss David’s valuable contributions and podiatric services.
Evan F. Meltzer, DPM (retired), Rio Rancho, NM
04/03/2026
OBITUARIES
RE: The Passing of David Vigdor Chazan, DPM
David Vigdor Chazan of Rochester, NY passed away on March 30, 2026 at age 84. David received a DPM degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. He had a 50-year career as a podiatrist in the Rochester area, always providing exceptional care to all of his patients.
 |
Dr. David Chazan |
David was dedicated to advancing the field of podiatry. He was a Diplomate of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and the American Board of Podiatric Medicine. He also served as president of the American College of Foot and Surgeons and New York State Podiatric Medical Association.
Source: Legacy.com
04/02/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: Celebrating the Wonderful Life of Hal Ornstein, DPM
Sunday April 26th at Howell High School Indoor Gymnasium, 405 Squankum-Yellowbrook Road, Farmingdale, NJ 07727, Doors open at 12:25 PM. Ceremony at 1 PM.
03/27/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
From: Nicole Freels, DPM
Our profession has lost one of its most formidable and charismatic figures. To say Hal was a firecracker is an understatement... Hal was the fire and the cracker. He carried a spirit and passion that was undeniable and powerful. It was truly a privilege to be in his presence. When I first met him in 2000 as a student, I was immediately enamored with his enthusiasm and overall vigor for our profession. The amount of sun that radiated from him, and the desire to help literally anyone (and everyone), is to be admired. The gravitational pull he exuded is incredibly rare in our profession.
I recall how nervous I was to meet him and how honored I felt that he even paid attention to little ol’ me. If you know Hal, you know. As per Hal, he immediately took me under his wing. I nearly fell over when he gave me his personal cell and email and encouraged me to contact him as I was building my private practice out of residency, during the Great Recession. I gladly took him up on his offer, and our professional friendship grew. I was one of his “groupies.” However, being a groupie and having access to his brilliance came with one caveat:...
Editor's note: Dr. Freel's extended-length letter can be read here.
03/26/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
I would like to add my voice to the chorus of those acknowledging Hal Ornstein’s contributions to the profession of podiatry and the greater world. My relationship with Hal dated back to his 3rd year in podiatry school when he was trying to raise money for an OCPM yearbook. When Hal and I left that initial meeting, an idea was hatched that led to the creation of the APMSA Corporate Advisory Board, a Residency Program Corporate Advisory Board and, later, to the AAPPM and its Corporate programs.
The idea of inviting companies to invest in educational endeavors fed Hal's appetite, and what started as an ask for $150 turned into a lifetime of teaching and giving. He will be missed but his legacy of lifting podiatry will keep him alive for those who knew him and everyone else who has benefitted from his important work.
Jason Kraus
03/26/2026
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
From: Jon Purdy, DPM
This was really sad news to hear. I have been a friend of Hal (He preferred that over Dr. Ornstein) for the better part of 25 years. I can definitely say I’m a better person with a better practice because of him. I reiterate everything that has been said about him thus far. He was that special kind of person one feels grateful to have known. There’s just no way to forget him.
My best to his family always.
Jon Purdy, DPM, New Iberia, LA
|
| |
|
|
|
