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01/10/2020
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
RE: The Passing of Ronald J. Kaplansky
Ronald J. Kaplansky, age 75, passed away on January 8, 2020. He graduated from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine in 1972.
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Dr. Ronald Kaplansky |
Ron founded The Kaplansky Foot and Ankle Centers and has practiced podiatry for 35 years. He was well respected and was the first podiatrist to serve as the President of the Ohio State Medical Board.
Source: Columbus Dispatch [1/9/20]
Other messages in this thread:
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
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
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
06/24/2025
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.
06/19/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
From: Michael S. Downey, DPM
I was very saddened to learn of the passing of one of my life-long mentors, Dr. E. Dalton McGlamry. I was first introduced to podiatry as a pre-med junior at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. When I expressed some doubts about entering the field of medicine, his daughter, Glynn, suggested spending the day observing her father in Atlanta. That visit in 1978 changed my life. I decided on the day of that visit to enter the field of podiatry and I have never regretted that choice.
Dr. McGlamry epitomizes the dedication, fortitude, compassion, grit, and care necessary to be a great podiatric physician and surgeon. After completing my 4 years of podiatric medical school training, I was fortunate to be selected for the Doctors Hospital residency program with Dr. McGlamry. I observed firsthand this giant in our profession not only as an outstanding surgeon, but as an individual committed to the betterment of everyone in our profession.
In my opinion, he was the originator of nationwide podiatric education accessible to all. He was a devoted family man, and a steadfast contributor to his local community. Dr. McGlamry not only strengthened my skills in treating the lower extremity, but was a role model on which I hopefully have honed my personal character. Although I have met and spent time with many of the outstanding leaders in our profession for which I am thankful, I will always consider Dr. McGlamry the GOAT podiatric physician and surgeon, and I will always be thankful for his guidance and mentorship. I know Dr. McGlamry’s passing is a great loss to many in our profession. I share my deepest condolences to all who shared in his light, including his family and many friends. RIP.
Michael S. Downey, DPM
06/18/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1D
From: Jay A. Wenig, DPM
I graduated from podiatry school in 1981 and went into the Air Force in October 1981. Back then, the Air Force had its own podiatry CME seminar held at Brooks Air Force Base. My first encounter with Dr. McGlamry was in January 1982 when Dr. McGlamry being the Air Force civilian liaison, came and lectured us for an entire eight-hour day. There were 33 podiatrists in the Air Force back then. The number is much smaller now and there is no longer a dedicated military CME meeting. Dr. McGlamry continued to do this for several more years and we had the magical experience of learning from Dr. McGlamry for an entire day all to ourselves.
He showed up with enough slide carousels to equal his height, as well with well edited 16mm movies with narration. For those of you who have never taken a picture or movie except with your cell phone, taking slides and making movies back then was real work. With the technology then available, taking a picture that was centered, in focus, and properly exposed took..
Editor's note: Dr. Wenig's extended-length letter can be read here.
06/18/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1C
From: Michael W. Lawrence, DPM
It is with an abundance of sadness I write at the news of the passing of Dr. McGlamry. I first heard him speak as a student at ICPM in 1978 and he made an immediate impact. What a consummate professional! my first seminar that I attended after entering practice was the 1980 Podiatry Institute in Atlanta and I was blown away at the quality throughout. The lectures were excellent and few dared to violate their given time and the "stoplight" keeping things right on time.
A number of times I wrote to him, yes pen on paper or perhaps typewriter, with various questions pertaining to the profession or to patient care. He ALWAYS took the time to write back! One time I was going to be in the Atlanta area and conveyed this to him and asked if it would be possible to stop by his office. My letter had got there late, and the day before my departure, he had his office manager call and tell me he had several cases at Atlanta hospital the next morning and he would like me to meet him there and scrub in with him! Was I dreaming? I was so high I hardly needed the plane to fly me to ATL!
The word "great" is so overused but not in this case. The profound impact that this man (and his family) has had on our profession as a whole, and on individuals like me, cannot be overstated.
Michael W. Lawrence, DPM (retired)
06/18/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1B
From: Joe Agostinelli, DPM
It’s with great sadness to hear of the passing of one of the giants of our profession, E. Dalton McGlamry, DPM. Others will comment on his singular accomplishments in advancing doctors of podiatric medicine and surgery, but I will comment on an aspect that many may not know.
Military DPMs have Dr. McGlamry to thank for their careers which have only been possible by the efforts of this giant of our profession - He was a reserve brigadier general in the armed forces. His determination and persistence led to the commissioning of DPMs in the USAF as Captains and ensured that military DPMs should be residency trained. Initially when military DPMs were assessed into the armed forces, residency training was not required and untrained podiatric surgeons for the most part were entered into the armed forces, especially in the USAF. Dr. McGlamry was responsible for making sure that those DPMs entering...
Editor's note: Dr. Agostinelli's extended-length letter can be read here.
06/18/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 1A
From: Lloyd Smith, DPM, Joe Boylan, DPM
There were several giants in our profession during the transition from routine care podiatry to hospital based foot and ankle surgery. Dalton was among those precious few. My generation (graduated in 1974) was among the first beneficiaries of surgical residency training, either led by these giants or their recently trained DPMs. I was fortunate enough to get to know many of these men and was inspired by their leadership to volunteer almost daily to enhance our profession. RIP, Dalton.
Lloyd Smith, DPM, Newton, MA
I was fortunate to have met him when I was a resident when he visited NYCPM in the mid- to late 1980s. Dr. McGlamry would speak in the old Joint Disease Hospital auditorium. He was charismatic, optimistic, genuine, and humble. A great man and a great life.
Joe Boylan, DPM, Ridgewood, NJ
04/14/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES)
Bob Russo was a remarkable healer, a compassionate leader, and a deeply loved member of the podiatric community. He had an impactful presence on the lives of so many—patients, colleagues, friends, and family. Dr. Russo led a life in the service of others. Through tireless work, long hours, and unwavering commitment, he brought comfort and healing to countless people. Whether it was through a kind word, a careful diagnosis, or simply the gift of presence, Dr. Russo reminded us what it means to truly care.
He was to me a wonderful mentor, a patient teacher, a thoughtful listener, and a friend. Many of us remember his musical talents on display at the annual conference. The legacy Dr. Russo leaves behind is one not just of professional excellence, but of deep humanity. Rest in peace, Dr. Russo. You have touched more lives than you could ever know, and your memory will forever be a blessing.
Michael R Borden, CAE, NYSPMA Executive Director (2013-2017)
04/11/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 3
I am sorry to hear of Dr. Manzo's passing. He was a professor of anatomy back in 1969 and also a clinician when I was a first year student at NYCPM. May he rest in peace.
J Scott Davis, DPM
04/11/2025
RESPONSES/COMMENTS (OBITUARIES) - PART 2
RE: The Passing of Sanford Kaner, DPM
Dr. Sandy Kaner, 81, of Arizona and Michigan where he practiced for 38 years, passed away on Feb. 28, 2025. He graduated from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine in 1970 and was residency director and involved with training for many years in Michigan.
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Dr. Sanford Kaner |
Many podiatrists looked up to him as a devoted mentor. I was one of his residents and have appreciated his training and advice for most of my life. Rest peacefully, Sandy. You will be loved and remembered by many.
Richard Jaffe, 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
03/14/2025
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
03/11/2025
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)
03/11/2025
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
03/10/2025
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.
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