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01/17/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Edward Fazekas, DPM
Dr. Edward Fazekas passed away peacefully yesterday with his loving wife Maria at his side. Ed touched so many people with his kind soul- most importantly as the ultimate family man; a super-caring husband and incredible father to each of four beautiful children. Dr. Fazekas was the most compassionate physician, developing lifelong relationships with each of his patients, relationships which we all strive for. He was a pillar of greatness within the medical community, forming trustworthy bonds of friendship with everyone he met.
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Dr. Edward Fazekas |
I am truly blessed and so fortunate to have had the incredible opportunity to spend my entire 29 years of private practice alongside Ed. He was everything you could hope for as a trustworthy friend, a successful colleague, a...
Editor's note: Dr. Werd's extended-length letter can be read here.
Other messages in this thread:
03/14/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
I am sitting in shock, processing the passing of my former partner at the Southern Arizona VA, Brent Nixon. To me, Brent was the most interesting man alive. From Truk island to the Merchant Marine Academy, to becoming a self-described “helicopter driver” in Vietnam to the footwear master for the US Corps of Cadets at West Point, he was a man like Odysseus who was never at a loss. With all that, he was a master clinician. He was beloved by his patients, his residents, his mentees, and me. RIP to a great and good man.
David G. Armstrong, DPM
03/14/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
RE: The Passing of Brent Peck Nixon, DPM
I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Brent Nixon. I knew him when he was a resident at Kern Hospital, and remember him as smart, compassionate, and kind. He had a gift for bringing out the best in others, a true class act. My heartfelt condolences to his family and colleagues.
Shawna Shapero, Bako Diagnostics
My very first rotation as a fourth-year podiatry student from SCPM was with Dr. Brent Nixon at the Tucson Arizona VAMC in 1990. Dr. Nixon was a wonderful mentor to me. He was always patient and generous with praise. His example has made me a better doctor!
Daniel Waldman, DPM
03/11/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1
RE: The Passing of Thomas M. Pokabla, DPM
Dr. Pokabla was one of 60 attendings who brought cases to the very busy Austintown Surgery Center covered by the Youngstown PSR-12 residents when I was there 1988-89. He was always cheerful, funny, and often times turned his whole case over to the residents. The five residents schemed and fought to scrub his cases.
I also rounded with him at the Warrentown rehab hospital where he provided routine foot care and the staff and patients loved him. I regret that I never made the effort to thank Tom and all the other attendings that took time out of their busy lives to train residents.
Ernest Louk, DPM, Las Vegas, NV
03/11/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2
I am sad to learn of Dr. Boxer’s passing. Although he was no longer on NYCPM faculty when I was a student, I had the privilege of being a student of his through his co-directing of my residency program. He had a profound influence on me with my visits to his office. I was first amazed at the efficiency of his practice with the small footprint of the physical space.
What he left me, more importantly, was his contrasting approach to a podiatry practice that I witnessed from other practices. From his consultation room that he used extensively with his new patients to his use of diagnostic testing that he performed without being used for superfluous billing. To the idea of thinking like a problem solver as any physician will do for our patients’ concerns. May his memory be a blessing.
Charles Spatz, DPM (retired)
03/10/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2A
RIP Dr. Boxer. Great mentor. I had the privilege of training with Dr. Boxer, Dr. Barkin and Dr. Shapiro at Peninsular hospital. They were like family to me.
Damaneon Smith, DPM
Like Dr. Spinner, I too remember Mike well from my days at Peninsula Hospital as a resident. In fact, my uncle was his patient. Mike would hold office hours in the evening one or two nights per week for those who could not come in during the day due to work. I spent many days in his office. He certainly was a stickler for appropriate protocol; in fact he kept an actual timer at the scrub sink at the hospital and he would set it for 5 or 10 minutes depending if it was the first case or not and you had to scrub for the entire time until the timer went off.
He was learned and a great resource and I never found him to be arrogant, just demanding that all students and residents act like the professionals whom we swore an oath to be. He certainly contributed to where I am now. May he rest in peace.
Vince Marino, DPM, Novato, CA
03/10/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2B
From: Joseph D’Amico, DPM
I have been fortunate in my life to have had many great mentors, including Drs. Richard O. Schuster, Justin Wernick, and Herman R. Tax in orthopedics, Renato J. Giorgini in surgery, and Myron C. Boxer in medicine, so it was with great sadness that I learned of his passing.
I first met Dr. Boxer as a New York College of Podiatric Medicine student in his podiatric medicine course. I immediately recognized him to be always organized, always meticulously prepared, and always professional in his demeanor and attire. Little did I dream that in the not-too-distant future, I’d be director of the NYCPM orthopedics department and get to know and work side by side with “Mike”, the iconic director of...
Editor's note: Dr. D'Amico's extended-length letter can be read here.
03/10/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1
RE: The Passing of Thomas M. Pokabla, DPM
Dr. Thomas M. Pokabla passed away Monday morning, March 3, 2025, at the Cleveland Clinic, surrounded by loved ones. He then went on to podiatry school at The Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine after a chance encounter with a local podiatrist who piqued his interest in podiatric medicine.
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Dr. Thomas Pokabla |
Tom practiced medicine in Howland for over 50 years in the same office, with patients coming from all over northeast Ohio to be cared for by him.
Source: Tribune Chronicle [3/6/25]
03/07/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
From: Steven Spinner, DPM
I had the privilege and honor of being one of Dr. Boxer's "selected" students when I was at NYCPM. That meant that you were invited to his office. I remember sitting in his office until midnight every Tuesday seeing patients. Just watching him interact and treat patients gave me a unique perspective on what it meant to be a "podiatric physician".
He was a "doctor" in a time when most podiatrists simply were not. As Director of my 2nd year residency program at Peninsula Hospital, he also taught me what is was like to be a true member of the medical staff. He was respected by all of his allopathic colleagues. He looked the part, walked the walk, and talked the talk. He elevated our profession at a critical time in our history. Rest in peace Mike.
Steven Spinner, DPM
03/07/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
From: Seth Rubenstein, DPM
A fortunate gift best describes my introduction to Mike Boxer 48 years ago. At the time, I was an undergraduate student exploring several career options. Mike welcomed me into his office which was also part of his home. Because my visits were frequent, I also came to know his charming wife, Karen.
Mike was a generous mentor and devoted friend. Our relationship extended through the full measure of a professional career and beyond. Mike will be revered and remembered by the thousands of students he helped educate and the countless patients whose lives he improved. My sincere condolences to Karen and the entire Boxer family.
Seth Rubenstein, DPM
03/06/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
Dr. Boxer was my professor at NYCPM when he was the chairman of the medicine department. He was a link from his professor, the late Dr. Steinberg, who is considered the father of podiatric medicine. Mike Boxer did not stop at being on the faculty of a college. He invited students and colleagues to observe him in his office. He even had meetings at his office with students and doctors to discuss the latest findings in the medical aspects of our profession.
I worked closely with Mike for many years on projects promoted by the American Society of Podiatric Medicine, which traced its roots back to the 1940s. When I became president of ASPM, he encouraged me and was an open ear to me whenever I needed his help. Mike was also an acclaimed lecturer in various areas of podiatric medicine. He never turned down a request to lecture on any topic. For many years, ASPM presented lectures at the SAM conference in Florida, Mike always joined us as a speaker or participant.
I will always miss him. May his memory be a blessing.
Elliot Udell, DPM
03/06/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
RE: The Passing of Myron "Mike" Charles Boxer, DPM
I was saddened to learn of the passing of one my first true mentors, Dr. Myron Boxer. As a member of the NYCPM class of 1981, Dr. Boxer was one of the first clinicians we met who was strident in his desire to uniformly elevate all podiatrists by preaching behavior consummate with having a doctoral degree enabling the privilege to make independent treatment decisions. Although rigid in his thinking, if you ever visited his office, you almost had to be glad to have chosen the profession of podiatric medicine. He was enormously respected by students. Although he was not in any way soft in his approach to people, I know for a fact he had great pride in their future success. He regularly and proudly referred to former students who had achieved with distinction all across the United States.
He left NYCPM before my class graduated, and I had limited but always cordial contact with him after graduation. In 1998, when I became Chief of Podiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City, he went out of his way to send me a congratulatory message, which I cherished. Dr. Boxer was the first to instill in me the appreciation and importance of mentorship, which became my professional raison d'etre, and greatly contributed to what has been and continues to be a glorious career. My deepest condolences to his family on their loss. May he rest in peace.
Bryan C. Markinson, DPM
03/06/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1C
RE: The Passing of Myron "Mike" Charles Boxer, DPM
I am sorry to hear of Mike Boxer’s passing. He was one of my mentors and I remember spending time in his office learning injection therapy and treatment of arthritic conditions. I have fond memories of rotating through Jewish Memorial Hospital in Manhattan under his guidance in the early 1970s when hospital training was limited for podiatrists. May he rest in peace.
J. Scott Davis, DPM
I was a student at NYCPM Class of 1980. Dr. Boxer was our podiatric medicine teacher. Suffice it to say he had a unique personality, but I will never doubt his love of podiatry and his desire to impart the importance of the medical aspect of our specialty to his students. In fact, although I certainly veered away from a lot of the traditional medicine that he taught us, he definitely sparked a love of medical management within me that, in part, helped lead me to a career in functional and regenerative medicine for chronic foot and ankle pain. There is no question that Dr. Boxer played a pivotal role in my professional career. It is a shame that podiatry veered so far from what he was all about and decided that we should be a purely surgically trained specialty. May he rest in peace.
Robert Kornfeld, DPM
02/07/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
Our profession has lost a great surgeon, teacher, and innovator. In my opinion, Dr. Isham was the most under-appreciated person in our profession. His contributions and innovations in MIS surgery have enabled thousands of surgeons in podiatry and orthopedics to improve the outcomes and lessen recovery times following foot and ankle surgery for hundreds of thousand off patients worldwide. Thank you Dr. Isham for your generosity in sharing your great wealth of knowledge and innovative techniques for these many years. A posthumous Podiatry Hall of Fame induction should be considered, way overdue.
Burton J. Katzen, DPM
02/07/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
RE: The Passing of Stephen Isham, DPM (Brant McCartan, DPM)
Stephen was a true gentleman and a trailblazer with his skill set and innovative procedures that he pioneered. He was always there to give advice and consultation on my cases when I needed it. I always enjoyed going to the yearly cadaver lab and lecture series of the Academy of Minimal Invasive Foot and Ankle Surgeons (MIFAS) where Stephen would work his way around the lab helping new practitioners and seasoned veterans in MIS technique and procedures. Steve was one of the several true pioneers of MIS surgery, not only in North America (Canada, USA, and Mexico) but he reached out to introduce and advance MIS techniques in Europe and South America. He will be sadly missed. Rest in Peace Stephen.
Robert Chelin, DPM
02/06/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Stephen Isham, DPM
It is with profound sorrow that I share the passing of our beloved colleague, mentor, and friend, Dr. Stephen A. Isham — a visionary pioneer whose unwavering dedication revolutionized minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for the foot and ankle. His departure leaves an irreplaceable void in our hearts and in the medical community, yet his legacy will forever illuminate the path he forged.
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Dr. Stephen Isham |
Dr. Isham was not merely a surgeon; he was a trailblazer. His innovative techniques and relentless pursuit of excellence transformed patient outcomes, setting new standards for precision, recovery, and...
Editor's note: Dr. McCartan's extended-length letter can be read here.
01/22/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of Ed "Eddie" Fazekas. As a longtime delegate to the APMA house of delegates, and as a representative of the FPMA, we became 20+year fast friends. Eddie would always greet me with, "there's the King" and we would laugh, pat each other, and share stories of our families. Ed was a true gentleman, kind soul, and just an all-around great dude. I will miss his smile, his greetings, and simply the person he was. Rest well my friend. This profession has lost a good one.
Michael King, DPM
01/20/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) PART 1 A
RE: The Passing of Ed Fazekas, DPM (Matt Werd, DPM)
I am devastated by the passing of my 1981 TUSPM classmate. Ed has been a friend and colleague since we matriculated at PCPM in 1977. Ed was one of a few classmates I would always see at CME meetings, especially in Florida. We were delegates for 20 years, he with FPMA, and me with the Federal Services. Our respective delegations were seated near each other at the annual APMA HOD meetings.
Ed can be described as an individual that exemplified core values - “integrity/service before self and commitment to excellence” as a professional. His priorities of family, faith, service to his patients and chosen profession were demonstrated in all he did. All of us who knew Ed are better because of him. His colleague, Matt Werd’s beautiful summary of Ed’s career/personal life will bring some solace to those of us affected by Ed’s passing. Our prayers are with Ed’s family and friends at this time. RIP my friend.
Joe Agostinelli, DPM
01/20/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1 B
RE: The Passing of Ed Fazekas, DPM (Matt Werd, DPM)
I am truly saddened reading about the passing of Ed Fazekas, DPM. Some 35+ yrs. ago when I opened my practice, Ed called me and congratulated me on my new endeavor. He gave me great advice that aided in my success.
I looked forward each year, knowing I would get to see and speak with him at SAM in Orlando, Fl. This year will not be the same without Ed. May he rest in peace and may his family find peace dealing with their loss.
Martin T Girling,. DPM
I'm just learning of the passing of Ed Fazekas, which greatly saddens me. Ed was such a wonderful gentleman and a great podiatrist. Although we have not spoken in many years, when I was active in practice, he communicated with me frequently. He was such a sincere advocate for his patients, with great insight and judgment. RIP Edward; sincere condolences to his family.
Harold W Vogler, DPM, Sarasota, FL
01/20/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1 C
RE: The Passing of Ed Fazekas, DPM (Matt Werd, DPM)
I am in shock. Ed was a friend who, unfortunately I did not see as often as I'd have liked. Matt Werd, DPM writes a beautiful tribute to Ed so I will try not to repeat, but only say I agree with all the deserved accolades.
When I became president of the FPMA, Ed was there to help me understand much of what would be needed. He would always lend an ear when I needed it, and give advice. He was the most humble guy you could know. He has done so much for the FPMA as a past president and APMA as a long-time delegate from Florida. I have always known Ed to be kind and generous in all he did. I nearly joined his podiatry team 33 years ago but decided to take a different path on my own. We were in touch while involved with the FPMA, as both of us are past presidents. I recently moved away and unfortunately lost touch. I am so devastated yet feel so fortunate to have known such a great man and physician as Ed. I am honored to have been able to call him my friend.
My heartfelt condolences to Maria and their 4 children (Juliana, Nicholas, Gabriela, and Christy). Ed, you will ALWAYS be missed but NEVER forgotten. Rest in peace my friend. You deserve it.
Roger G. Beck, DPM
01/11/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my friend, SuEllen Dercher. She was a truly remarkable lady and an icon in our profession. SuEllen was admired for her kindness, warmth, and generosity, as well as her extraordinary accomplishments as a savvy businesswoman. Her ability to connect with people left an indelible impression on everyone fortunate enough to have known her.
SuEllen was beloved by a great many in our profession, including physicians and exhibitors alike. She will be sorely missed. My heartfelt condolences go out to her husband, Dave, and her family during this time of profound loss.
Richard H. Mann, DPM
01/09/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1
RE: The Passing of Richard “Rick” Cullen, DPM
Richard “Rick” Cullen, DPM, sports medicine podiatrist, passed away in Boston, MA on December 14, 2024 aged 73 years. A gifted doctor, he will be remembered for his expertise and dedication to his patients, for over 40 years.
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Dr. Richard Cullen |
He attended Fairfield University class of 1974, Fairfield, CT and Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine, class of 1983, Philadelphia, PA. After graduation, he joined Sports Medicine Brookline, MA, where he became one of the top sports medical podiatrists in the Boston area. He was a consultant to the Boston Celtics, working closely with the team physician. His long career in sports medicine included his private practice in Needham, MA. A yearly highlight was volunteering at the Boston Marathon.
Jonathan Kaplan, DPM
01/09/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2
I started my career in podiatry 14 years ago and stepped into the exhibit hall not knowing the world I was entering; I’ll never forget the “presence” of one woman. SuEllen epitomizes what it means to “man a booth.” Speaking of “manning” a booth, there was zero, “I’m a woman, hear me roar.” No, she just did it.
For years, I watched from my booth a tenacious road warrior show up, on time, every day, to get it done… and dressed in the classic “SuEllen uniform” (I don’t even have to say it, you can see it). She was unapologetically SuEllen and you knew when she was in the room. There are some people you don’t really notice whether they are there or not. I am saddened to know that there will be something noticeably missing in those halls.
Sarah Breymeier
01/01/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
I had the pleasure of being Joe’s classmate at PCPM. He was always a caring person and I’m sure was the same way in practice. I always enjoyed catching up with him at Goldfarb meetings. I wish peace to his extended family.
Chuck Langman, DPM
12/31/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
So sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. He was always a gentleman and a kind person. We were classmates and he was always one of the quiet, nice people. Our condolences to those near and dear to him.
Andrew Levy, DPM (Ret.), Jupiter, FL
12/19/2024
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
I met SuEllen in my early days at Pedinol. It was 1989 at a conference. She owned Gordon Labs and we became friendly competitors. We had many lunches and dinners together at so many conferences, and have stayed in touch over 30 years. She would call and ask, “What’s doing?” She would send me the creams and lotions she knew I liked. I will miss our talks to catch up. SuEllen was just a nice person. My sincere condolences to David and Andrew.
Paula Pitts
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