In memoriam
Posted: July 15, 2024Gary P. Brigham, DDS, Phoenix, Arizona, died Dec. 25, 2023. Dr. Brigham was a former faculty member.
Russell M. Broadwell, DO, ’67, Fort Myers, Florida, died Oct. 6, 2023, at age 81. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to Dr. Wayne and Dolores Broadwell. He attended The Ohio State University where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and then transferred to Truman State University.
Following graduation, he attended A. T. Still University where he received his medical degree in 1967. As a physician, he served in the US Air Force for 20 years as a Flight Surgeon and Chief of Aeromedical Services, retiring from active duty with the rank of Colonel in 1989. During his military career, he served at Kirtland AFB, Albuquerque, NM, Scott AFB, Il, Kelly AFB, San Antonio, TX, McClellan AFB, Sacramento, CA, the Panama Canal Zone twice, Myrtle Beach AFB, SC, and Maxwell AFB, Montgomery, AL. Following his Air Force career, he then practiced medicine at Kaiser Permanente in San Bernardino, CA, and as an urgent care physician in the Fort Myers, FL area. In retirement, he was able to pursue his love of both golf and travel.
He is survived by his wife, Sharron, of 60 years, daughter, Heather (and husband Nicholas) Popovich, Mt. Pleasant, SC, and son, Scott (and wife Maggie) Broadwell, Charlotte, NC, and grandchildren, Perrin and Piers Popovich, and Lucien and Landon Broadwell. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Wayne and Dolores Broadwell of Bay Village, OH, and his parents-in-law, Sylvia and Omer Biere, of Columbia, MO.
Susan J. Burge, DO, ’05, North Las Vegas, Nevada, died Oct. 3, 2023.
James Cannon, DHA, MBA, MS, PA-C, DFAAPA, ’97, Chesapeake, Virginia,died March 31, 2024. Dr. Cannon was a remarkable healthcare provider, ATSU alumnus, former member of ATSU’s Board of Trustees, entrepreneur, and father. Dr. Cannon graduated with the inaugural class of the ATSU-ASHS physician assistant studies program in 1997 and served in the U.S. Coast Guard for more than 30 years, retiring in 2016 as a senior leader and aviation medical officer. He believed in ATSU’s mission and served on the Board of Trustees from 2011 to 2020, working to promote the mission of the University and the well-being of the students, alumni, and employees. He always provided a welcoming smile and an adventurous story to share. Dr. Cannon had special interests in mental healthcare and promoting diversity and inclusion in both education and patient care. Dr. Cannon will be missed by many colleagues and friends. His deep devotion to ATSU will live on through the lives and work of students, alumni, faculty, and staff.
Herbert E. “Gene” Childress, DO, ’83, Lewistown, Missouri, died Jan. 20, 2024, at age 71. The son of Austin “Herb” and Pauline Stevenson Childress was born on July 10, 1952 in Arbela, Missouri. He was united in marriage to Peggy J. Smith on April 8, 1972 in the Durham Baptist Church at Durham, Missouri.
Gene graduated from Ewing, HS and served as a student representative on the board to set up Highland High School. Upon graduation, he served in the U.S. Navy on nuclear submarines and as a Hospital Corpsman where he learned he had a knack and passion for medicine. When he was discharged he went to college at Northeast Missouri State University, now Truman State, and received a degree in Nursing before entering Medical School at the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Upon his return to Lewis County in 1984, Dr. Childress began his medical practice because there was a need for medical services that had been lacking since he was a child. He immediately poured all his efforts into serving the community and trying to help it grow in any way, shape, or form. He ran his practice with compassion, never turning anyone away – trading his services for baked goods, foraged fruits and mushrooms or wild game, taking phone calls at his house at all hours, and making house calls in any weather and down any road. He was the quintessential country doctor. He loved spending time on his farm, tending to cattle and fence and chewing the fat over the back of a truck or scoop of a tractor. He was a passionate outdoorsman. If you couldn’t find him in the clinic, he was in the outdoors sharing it with his friends. He also made time to be a family man, caring for his 4 sisters, and loved making memories with his children and grandchildren. In conversations with anyone, he would be quick to update them on his family’s current activities whether they asked for it or not. There isn’t enough space on this paper to list all his accomplishments and things that he was proud of, but being from and caring for the residents of Lewis County was #1 on the list. Doc Gene was a member of the Lewis County Memorial Post #578 and the LaBelle Masonic Lodge #222 as well as numerous other civic organizations supporting the betterment of the community.
He is survived by his wife, Peggy Childress of Lewistown, MO; two sons, Christopher (Monica) Childress of Collierville, TN and Nathan (Amanda) Childress of Lewistown, MO.; six grandchildren, Caleb, Dalton, Bradyn, Asher, Reece and Adley Childress; four sisters, Joyce (John) Logan of Ewing, MO, Kitty Shults of Ewing, MO, Veda Shults of Lewistown, MO and Pamela Childress of Canton, MO; and several nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Jerad Childress, and a brother in law, Kevin Shults.
Donald D. Dunayer, DO, ’55, New Port Richey, Florida, died Sept. 4, 2023, at age 94. He leaves behind his wife Sandra of 65 years, his four children, Denise (Stewart), Douglas (Claudia), Jeffrey (Brenda) and Jony, his grandchildren, Lauren, Taylor, Evan, Julia, Danny, Jillian, Dylan, Samantha and great granddaughter Brennan. He was a well respected physician in general practice and touched so many throughout his long life. He was a graduate of Long Island University and Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. Don was a family man, Yankee baseball fan, and avid tennis player.
Ernest C. Edwards, AuD, ’01, Burkeville, Virginia, died Sept. 12, 2022.
Michael F. French, Lenexa, Kansas, died Dec. 24, 2023, at age 75. Michael Francis French was born July 25, 1948, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, and died December 24, 2023 in Kansas City, Kansas. Michael was the only son of Albert Frank French, Jr., and Kathryn Patricia (MacKoske) French. Michael graduated from Saint Thomas Aquinas High School in La Crosse in 1966 and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education at the University of Wisconsin in 1972. After 3 years of public-school teaching, Michael joined the Wisconsin Department of Health and Social Services Emergency Medical Services team as they regrouped to upgrade training. Over his 15 years there, Michael rose from emergency medical services instructor to section chief of EMS. In addition, he participated in development of national training materials and standards including the “EMS Instructor Training Course” for the United States Department of Transportation in 1985. Michael was a founding member of the Continuing Education Coordination Board for Emergency Medical Services Inc. in 1992 and newsletter editor for the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians from 1983 to 1991. Following his employment at the Wisconsin Department of Health and Social Services, Michael served as co-director of the Missouri Area Health Education Centers Program located at the A.T. Still University/Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Missouri from 1990 to 2020. Serving the state through seven regional offices and three partner medical school offices, the Missouri AHEC program worked to enhance Missouri’s health professions workforce distribution, quantity and quality. Engaging a wide range of health professions in addition to medicine, AHEC leaders and staff helped communities enhance their efficacy at identifying, supporting, recruiting and retaining future providers. As in Wisconsin EMS, Michael was active in national AHEC program initiatives, eventually becoming one of the most recognized leaders in AHEC legislative relations. He was active in a variety of community and professional organizations, frequently holding leadership positions and receiving recognition for contributions to the work of the group.
On October 11, 1991 Michael and Janet Streeter Head secretly got married on a trip to Washington DC. On November 26, 1991, they celebrated their marriage with family and friends in Oklahoma City, OK. They worked together at ATSU until retirement in 2019 and relocated to Lakeview Village Senior Living Community in Lenexa KS in 2021. Michael had many non-work interests through the years including collecting LP records, stuffed animals, coins, neckties, books by and about William Faulkner, about the civil war, US Presidents and state histories. He also took an interest in others’ areas of interest—oldest granddaughter Annabel worked her way up to a pitching position for the Truman State Lady Bulldogs and Michael subscribed to the feed carrying the Great Lakes Valley Conference games so we could watch the games we couldn’t go to. He also shared expertise and interest in computers/technology with Dan and shared with the entire family an interest in Wisconsin Volleyball.
While working in health administration and education and living a large part of his adult years in Missouri; Michael maintained strong ties with both theater and his home state of Wisconsin. This commitment was demonstrated by his annual attendance and support of the outdoor presentations of American Players Theater of Spring Green, Wisconsin. The joy he experienced every year from these treks was apparent from January when tickets went on sale, till the tickets were delivered in April, and positively palpable as he and Janet headed to Wisconsin in the summer or fall.
In late January 2023, after having meticulously managed kidney disease for nearly 40 years and having carefully juggled symptoms of several chronic conditions that can come with increasing years, he was diagnosed with bladder cancer. After two surgeries and multiple readmissions for complications, he was transferred to Hospice service on December 21 and died December 24; all with his usual calm, persistence and grace.
Michael is survived by his wife, Janet, and by his children Rebecca (Drew) Zimmer and Daniel (Tera Linenberger) Head. He is also survived by grandchildren: Annabel, Audrey, Aliza, and Bella Zimmer and Noah and Lane Linenberger.
James E. Gardner, DO, ’62, Kirksville, Missouri, died Dec. 21, 2023, at age 90. Doc Gardner led a legendary life. At 90 years old this Northeast Missouri farm boy, veteran, doctor, businessman, exotic animal trader and rare coin collector, known as “Doc” by those who knew him from his medical career, and “Animal Papa” by those who loved him and are his legacy, passed away in his hometown of Kirksville, Missouri from a heart so big it couldn’t be contained. He passed away at home under the care of Hospice of Northeast Missouri while surrounded by loving family on Thursday December 21, 2023. That legacy includes his wife of nearly a half century, Wilma (Wells) Gardner, six children: Lynn Ann (Gardner) Roberts and husband Larry of Weatherby Lake, MO., James Michael Gardner and wife Cindy of Columbia, David Bryan Gardner and wife Joy of Lee’s Summit, MO., Kelly Wayne Gardner and wife Pam of Cottleville, MO., Cynthia Marie (Gardner) Lewellen and husband Chuck of Kirksville, MO., and stepson Greg Murphy and wife Kim of Kirksville, MO., along with eighteen grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Earnest and Maxie (Smith) Gardner, his sister Mary (Gardner) Emdia, stillborn granddaughter Tanya Gardner, and grandson Matthew Lewellen, a Green Beret killed in action in Jordan.
His larger-than-life persona drew comparisons to John Wayne, but his smooth moves on the dance floor brought Fred Astaire to mind. On any given Saturday night, you could find Jim and Wilma dancing at the VFW, where he rarely sat out a dance, especially if the great-grandchildren were there. He was not one to sit out much in life.
James Edgar Gardner was born October 18, 1933, in Hurdland, Missouri, to Earnest and Maxie Gardner. His father was a farmer and his mother a teacher in Knox County. In fact, she taught in a one-room schoolhouse near their farm and Jim was one of her students. He said he never gave his mother credit for her intelligence; she earned a Masters degree in the 1950’s when few women were pursuing a college education. He graduated in 1952 from Knox County High School in Edina, Missouri, and left Missouri to seek his fortune in factories out of state, then enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served two years on the USS Randolph aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean. When he returned to Kirksville he married his high school sweetheart, Sue Bishop, in 1954. Together they had five children in seven years: Lynn, Mike, David, Kelly and Cindy. After their divorce he married Wilma Murphy in 1977 and gained a stepson, Greg Murphy.
As a young father in his senior year at Kirksville College of Osteopathy and Surgery, Jim was elected student body president. While still in medical school he began working at the downtown clinic of Mildred Gelbach, D.O., and he took over her practice in 1964 after she was struck by a car while in California. He recently told a reporter for the Adair Historian that he didn’t leave the county for seven years after taking over the clinic. He trained himself to function on just four hours of sleep a night. He was known as Kirksville’s baby doctor and estimated he delivered more than 4,600 babies in his career. If there was a complicated birth, his colleagues called on him for the special delivery. He also pioneered the use of the laparoscope in Missouri. His clinic partners over the years included the late Mary Boller, D.O., and Joseph Marino, D.O., now of South Carolina. Along with Dr. Marino and several other doctors he owned and operated Grim-Smith Hospital until they sold it. He continued owning farms and became one of the first to raise French Charolais cattle in the state. He and fellow investors built a thriving night club, the Golden Spike, that hosted nationally known musicians and comedians in downtown Kirksville; they opened a second one in Quincy, Illinois. Among the other local businesses he developed were the Crown Drive Professional Building on Hwy. 63, two medical research businesses, Sunbrite Laundry, Aladdin Glass and home decor store, Colonial Manor Motel, and Pancake City on Hwy. 63 in partnership with daughter Cindy and her husband Chuck Lewellen, and Gardner Miniatures with wife Wilma.
When Dr. Gardner retired from medicine at the age of 53, he and Wilma moved to wooded acreage adjoining Thousand Hills State Park and began their exotic animal business. Over the following decades they raised llamas, zebras, red deer, buffalo, elk, camels, fainting goats, exotic birds like emus and peacocks, and finally, miniature donkeys and miniature horses. Their first llama was house-trained and slept with them in the bunkhouse while their home was being built. Every Fourth of July, the Gardners and the Waddles invited hundreds of family members and friends to gather in a clearing at the place he called “theBrush” to create memories riding mules, playing horseshoes, eating turkey fries, and telling tall tales, culminating in the largest fireworks display in Northeast Missouri. The other holiday he made famous for the family became known as “Walmart Christmas” when he and Wilma hosted a big meal and distributed envelopes filled with cash to take the whole family shopping together at Walmart the weekend before the holiday.
An athlete in high school, he recalls playing basketball against Norm Stewart, whom he remembered as “a tough SOB”. As an adult he coached the American Legion Kirksville Royals and other KBA baseball teams to many a victory and all of his sons played the game. The baseball field in Kirksville is named “Doc Gardner Field” in his honor. In recent years he was elected to the KBSA Hall of Fame. He traveled the region in support of his grandkids and great-grandkids, whether it be basketball, football, softball, baseball, track, dance, poker, or even soccer (not his favorite sport). He loved to cheer them on.
Before moving to Missouri to farm, Jim’s father Earnest built roads in Illinois with wagons pulled by mules. In his forties, Jim Gardner took up Mule Jumping and trained his favorite mule to jump over a wall as tall as 67 inches. With his jumping mule Icey they won three state fair competitions in Missouri, Iowa and Illinois. Doc asked that his ashes be spread on the ridge where his best mule Icey and his best dog Phideaux (pronounced Fido) are buried. A farm boy at heart, as his medical career in Kirksville flourished, he bought a series of farms in Adair County and kept them until he could double his money, using the proceeds to buy the next farm. Land was important to him. Striking a good deal was too.
Well known for his generosity, Doc Gardner was asked to help put together a Wagon Train for Boys Town of Missouri in St. James. For eight years he and Wilma, along with friends from the Waddle family, provided riding animals for a trail ride for 100 abused and neglected boys. The 170-mile ride started in St. James and went all the way to the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. Over those eight days, Doc recalled that the boys learned to ride and gained a sense of pride and connection to their animals. Missouri’s governor presented Jim and Wilma with the Child Advocate of the Year award for their work.
Jim Gardner had a love of adventure, hunting, fishing, and pulling legendary pranks; he was adept at telling a good joke, especially the off-color ones. His tenderness when caring for the sick or small children and animals, along with his legendary zest for life, benefited multiple generations. His resiliency in surviving more than two decades with a brain tumor gave him countless opportunities to experience the joy and fullness of a life well lived with family and friends. At the end of his life, despite the pain, he was the first to say his nine decades went by in a flash and that he was “a lucky man who had a great run!”
John H. George, PhD, Lincoln, Nebraska, died Dec. 20, 2023, at age 77. John was born on December 22, 1945 in Lincoln, Nebraska. He was later confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church. He graduated from Lincoln High, then he went on to obtain all of his advanced degrees from UNL. Those degrees were a BA in January of 1970, an MA in July of 1976, and his Ph.D. in December of 1981. He met his future wife Gayle in 1966 when he was a patient at Lincoln General Hospital, it was love at first sight. They got married on December 9, 1967. They celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary this past December.
John went to work at LMEF (Lincoln Medical Education Foundation) in The Family Practice Residency Program, he was heavily involved in ACLS and ATLS (Advanced Trauma Life Support). John was a medical educator and he loved doing it, he was instrumental in national and international surgical training throughout the world. Other professional positions included Physician Liaison at LGH. He worked at John A. Burns School of Medicine in Honolulu, Hawaii, MCO in Toledo, Ohio, Penn State Milton S. Hershey School of Medicine, ATSU-KCOM in Kirksville, Missouri, and ATSU-SOMA in Mesa, Arizona. Positions held were Curriculum Development and Evaluation, Associate Sr. Dean, Advisor to Presidents and Deans. He also served on the board of directors at Tabitha.
John was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Lincoln. He was also a member of the Izaak Walton League. John enjoyed scuba diving, hunting, shooting, reading and reading the funnies, military history, and camping. He loved to make people laugh. John loved his family dearly, survivors include his wife Gayle, his son Scott (Shannon), and his daughter Adrienne (Ricky). He also had many grandchildren and they are Riley, Austin, Grant, Eli, Harrisen, and Liam. Preceded in death by John J. and Amalia George.
Barbara A. Harrington, AuD, ’07, San Mateo, California, died in July 2023.
W. Hadley Hoyt III, DO, ’68, Osage Beach, Missouri, died Feb. 12, 2024, at age 80. He was born August 29, 1943 in Kirksville, Missouri, the son of Dr. W. Hadley Hoyt Jr., and Helen Carver Hoyt. He was proceeded in death by his sister, Mary Junia McCoy. He is survived by his wife Anita (Gatlin) Hoyt, his son, Dr. Will Hoyt IV and his wife, Dr. Autumn Clark of Springfield, MO, his daughter Tiffany Tinson and her husband, Jim, of Bronxville, NY and five beautiful grandchildren—Cara, William and Max Tinson, and Monica Ann and Willis Hoyt V. Also his sister, Martha Emerson of Portland ME, brother-in-law Ted Gatlin and wife Linda, Unionville, MO, sister-in-law Georgann Chandler, Kirksville, MO and nephews; Randy Clark, Chad (and Beth) Gatlin, Shane (and Katrina) Gatlin, Thomas (and Kathy) McCoy, Jared Emerson, and many great nephews and nieces.
He grew up in North Reading, Massachusetts and graduated from high school there. He attended Truman State University graduating Cum Laude with a degree in chemistry. While a Junior there he served as President of his class. He was a member of the Phi Sigma Epsilon fraternity. In 1966, while both were still students, he married his soulmate, Anita Gatlin from Unionville, MO. They were married 57 years, and he often referred to her as “the best decision I ever made.”
He received his medical degree from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1968 and Interned at Capitol Region Hospital in Jefferson City, MO. He practiced Family medicine in Park Hills, MO with his dear friend and partner, Dr. Gerald Roberts, from 1969 to 1981. In 1981, he started a rotating residency under the direction of Dr. Larry McIntire in Otolaryngology that took him to study in many different places–Cleveland Clinic, Chicago Childrens, House Ear Institute, Los Angeles, Barnes Hospital, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington, DC and others. He was forever grateful to Dr. McIntire for his training, and felt it was his responsibility to use his training for the good of all whom he could help. Upon completion of his residency, he and his family moved to Des Moines, Iowa where he practiced for 15 years. In Des Moines, he established a residency-training program in Otolaryngology, served as the President of the Iowa Osteopathic Medical Association, and later as National President of his Specialty College. He served on the National Board of Examiners for Specialty Certification and was a Distinguished Fellow of the College. He was a member of the Christian Society of Otolaryngology/ Head & Neck Surgery. He served as an Elder at Central Presbyterian Church in Des Moines. He loved the extensive bike trails in Des Moines, and was an avid biker, jogger and triathlon participant. In 1999, because of a worsening spinal condition, he and Anita moved to their lake home in Osage Beach, MO where he continued his surgical practice part time. He and Anita joined Harper Chapel United Methodist Church in 1999. He retired in 2020. He was a life-long learner and took Continuing Medical Education courses until the time of his death. He did Medical Mission work in Mexico, Guatemala, and at the Tutwiler Clinic in Tutwiler, MS. Following the destruction of hurricane Katrina he volunteered in a lean-to clinic in D’Iberville, MS with minimal electricity and no running water.
Hadley had a real zest for life and made each day count, often saying he believed in “Life before death—don’t waste it!” He cherished his many friends and deeply loved his family. He appreciated being able to travel the world and meet people of all different cultures, and sample exotic foods. He was an IFR private pilot and loved visiting every state in our country. He truly enjoyed being on the water, going fast in his offshore racer, and later in life, just cruising. He loved traveling in his motorhome, fishing, golfing, British cars and photography. He had a strong affection for animals and was known to foster abandoned wildlife to adulthood. Most of all, he loved his title of Grampy and spending time with his Grandchildren that he called his “Grands”. He delighted in playing with the electric train “town” he built with them, towing them behind the boat, and teaching them archery, chess, and how to play pranks on each other.
Amanda Isham, DHSc, ’16, Clarkston, Michigan, died May 10, 2024, at age 39. She was born on August 20, 1984, in Pontiac, Michigan, daughter to Gary Isham and Iris Isham. Dear sister of Aimee (Jeff) Lentz; proud aunt Deda of Jameson; niece of Brenda (Jon) Kirken, William Burlison and Wayne Burlison; cousin of Brett Kirken and Bruce Kirken. She is also survived by her beloved pups, Harvard and Bert. Amanda worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan where she was a senior analyst. In her spare time, she enjoyed walking her dogs, being outside and having “sister days” with her sister Aimee.
Anita K. Kalousek, DO, Upland, California, died Dec. 3, 2023. Dr Kalousek began her relationship with The College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific (COMP) as a student in the Class of ’89. Her dedication and leadership provided invaluable contributions to institution from the role of Family Physician to Professor of Family Medicine, Dean of the Office of Academic Affairs, and Department Chair of Family Medicine. Dr. Kalousek also served with distinction as dean of A.T Still University’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona, further exemplifying her commitment to medical education and her dedication to advancing patient care. She was a distinguished educator, compassionate physician, and selfless community leader. Dr. Kalousek was honored with numerous awards throughout her illustrious career, each serving as a testament to her unwavering commitment to the field of osteopathic medicine and her outstanding contributions to our community. Among these accolades were:
∙ Osteopathic Medical Educator of the Year, AMOA, April 2015
∙ Honorary Member, Kirksville Osteopathic Alumni Association (KOAA), KCOM, A.T. Still University of Health Sciences, October 2015
∙ Pumerantz Lifetime Fellow of Excellence, Western University of Health Sciences
∙ Faculty Excellence Recognition Award, nominated by the D.O. class of ‘11, COMP
∙ Physician of the Year, ACOFP-CA, 2010
∙ Most Inspirational Faculty Member, nominated by the D.O. class of ‘06, COMP
∙ Outstanding Volunteer of the Year, City of Montclair, CA, 1993
∙ Certificate of Appreciation: “In Special Recognition of Your Contributions and Service to Our Community,” Jay Kim Member of Congress, United States of America, 1993
∙ Certificate of Recognition: “Volunteer of the Year: In Recognition and Appreciation of Outstanding Service to Your Community,” California Legislature Assembly, Fred Aguiar, Member of the 61st Assembly District, 1993
∙ Certificate of Recognition: County of San Bernardino Board of Supervisors, Larry Walker, Supervisor, Fourth District, 1993
∙ Certificate of Recognition: “1993 Volunteer of the Year,” California State Senate, Ruben Ayala, 34th Senate District, 1993
∙ Clinical Facilitator of the Year, COMP, 1991
Dr. Kalousek’s impact reached far beyond the walls of our institution. Her dedication to education, healthcare, and community service set a standard of excellence that will continue to inspire us all. As we reflect on her remarkable journey, let us celebrate the life of an individual who not only shaped the minds of future physicians but also enriched the lives of countless individuals through their selfless service and leadership.
Bonni L. Kinne, DHSc, ’15, Grand Ledge, Michigan, died Oct. 16, 2023, at age 62. Born on March 9, 1961, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Bonni’s life was marked by a deep commitment to her family, her faith, and her work in the field of physical therapy.
Bonni is survived by her mother, Sandra Kinne, her brother Stephen Kinne and his wife Jennifer, along with her beloved nieces, Angela and Allison Kinne. She was preceded in death by her father, John Kinne, and her grandparents, Harley and Esther Kinne, Arthur and Erma Brandt. Bonni was a proud graduate of Grand Ledge High School’s class of 1979. Her high school years were also marked by her talent for softball, a passion that would lead her to Western University on a scholarship. Her skills on the field were recognized when she was selected for the 1st Team All American.
After completing her education, Bonni embarked on a fulfilling career in physical therapy. She worked as a professor of Physical Therapy at Grand Valley State University and served as the clinical director for the school’s Physical Therapy program. Her dedication to her profession was matched only by her commitment to nurturing the next generation of physical therapists.
However, Bonni’s life was not solely defined by her professional achievements. She was also deeply involved in her church community. A long-time member of the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church, Bonni taught Discipleship classes, sharing her deep faith and love for her community.
Harry P. Kornhiser Jr., DO, ’65, Covington, Virginia, died Feb. 2, 2023, at age 87. He was preceded in death by his mother Virgie Kornhiser, father Harry Kornhiser Sr., brother Richard Kornhiser and sisters, Carol Ann Donovan and Betty Jo Pare. He is survived by his wife Joan Cragg Kornhiser of 59 years, daughters Dr. Belinda Kornhiser Smith and Laura Kornhiser Israel (Ed Israel), sons David Craig Kornhiser and John Paul Kornhiser (Tara Wagner). He was so proud of five grandchildren including Nicole Kay O’Neil (Kristopher O’Neil), Kathryn Elizabeth Hughes (Jonathan Hughes), Heather Telane Kornhiser, Jeremy Craig Kornhiser (Shalee Kornhiser) and Sarah Beth Kornhiser (Richie Boguess). Not to be overlooked though, he had great grand-children numbering sixteen, Lexi McCormick, Daquan Anderson, Devan Anderson, Koen Boguess, Sophia Kornhiser, Jacionna Ray, Lily Boguess, Aiden Sturgill, Jayonna Ray, Noah Lipes, DalylaBoguess, Asher Kornhiser, Brooklyn O’Neil, Ember Kornhiser, Raegan Hughes, and Gwendolyn Kornhiser.
Dr. Kornhiser gave selflessly throughout his entire life, and asked for nothing in return. He was loved by many and touched the lives of so many people through his work as a physician for 60 years. He loved his family unconditionally and improved the lives of countless people both professionally and personally. Dr. Kornhiser served in the Army in Korea from 1959-1961. His father was a private pilot and he also wanted to be a private pilot. His poor eyesight kept him from fulfilling that dream. He then decided he wanted to be a physician. Dr. Kornhiser attended the University of Miami and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Science in 1959. He then attended medical school at the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine graduating in 1965. Dr. Kornhiser was a Board-Certified Neurologist and Psychiatrist. He loved working in this profession and was beloved by his patients. Dr. Kornhiser was the first Dean of the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, a Professor of Medicine, Medical Director for many agencies and held countless professional memberships and appointments. Aside from the love and pride he had for his family, one of his proudest days was presenting a Doctor of Osteopathy diploma to his daughter Dr. Belinda Smith. Dr. Kornhiser worked until he was 84 years old retiring in June 2020.
Donald T. Lee, DO, ’81, Fremont, California, died Feb. 22, 2024, at age 70. He leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and strength that will be cherished by all who knew him.
Donald was born on July 26, 1953, to John Lee and Sheping Tsui and grew up in Kowloon, Hong Kong. He was the youngest of four siblings.
As a young man, Donald earned his Doctorate of Osteopathy from A.T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Missouri. He went on to attend a residency program in the United States Army where he was able to pursue his passion of helping others. He was always known as the jokester of the group. After retiring from the Army as a Major, he continued to work in emergency rooms and opened his private practice, Bizmed OHC in 1992. The year 1992 was very special as he also welcomed his daughter Angela to the world.
Donald had a great love for reading and continued education. He treasured his time with family and friends, eating good food, napping in his massage chair, and telling crude jokes. His family, friends, and everyone who knew him will deeply miss Donald. The love he shared and the light he gave to this world can never be replaced. He will live on through those of us lucky enough to have known such an incredible man. As we say goodbye to Donald Tan-Fog Lee, may his legacy inspire us to embrace love and kindness and make a difference in the lives of others.
George M. Magnus, DMD, ’19, MPH, ’12, Union, New Jersey, died May 4, 2024, at age 40. George was born on September 5, 1983, to Leonid Mironyuk and Zinaida (Zinkevych) Mironyuk in Lutsk, Ukraine. He was the youngest sibling of Serhiy, Vitaliy, Pavel, Helen, and Mariya. In October 1990, he immigrated to the United States with his father and siblings. His mother passed away en route. Despite his complicated childhood that prevented him from finishing high school, he persevered and obtained a General Education Diploma. In 2007 he graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He worked as a dental assistant at various places, including American Dental Center in Union, NJ, where he moved in 2008. After relocating to Arizona in 2009, he continued to pursue dental work and studies. In 2012, he graduated from A.T. Still University of Health Sciences with a Master of Public Health degree. In 2019, after obtaining another degree, Doctor of Dental Medicine, from the same university, he worked for three years at Affordable Dentures and Implants in Bullhead City, AZ, where he was owner of the practice. In 2022, he moved to Yuma, AZ, to work as a dentist at Arizona State Prison Complex. In October 2023, he made another move and started as a dentist at Zufall Health, West Orange, NJ.
Recently, he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, which finally provided him with answers to his mood shifts and behavior throughout his life. George had a roller coaster life with periodic ups and downs. In his up times, he was outgoing, meeting new people, and taking on difficult projects. In his down times, he withdrew, stopped communicating, and had difficulties performing simple tasks. As a result, his social life suffered and he often blamed himself for not always being “the same person.”
George moved to Arizona hoping to take advantage of the sunny climate. He thought that he had seasonal disorder where a person feels great in summer and lousy in winter. Right after settling in Arizona, he was really happy. All his problems seemed to be in the past. But the ups and downs came back. He returned to New Jersey hoping to find a cure through being with family. He thought that maybe the loneliness was the problem. It seemed to work at first. He felt upbeat, communicative, full of energy, invincible. He became so confident that he decided to go to Ukraine and open a company. The company was his way to make a material contribution in supporting his native country fighting a war. He succeeded in this effort. However, this turned out to be his up time. When he came back he slowly slipped into his down time. George was aware of his problems and took advantage of his up times as much as possible. While living in Massachusetts and attending UMass, he built his own shed room in the backyard. It had electricity from the main house, air conditioning, a TV, a bed, and a set of drums and guitars which he played alone and with his friends. He read ravenously trying to make sense of the world and find answers to the questions that kept him up at night. He visited many countries and learned Spanish, which served him well in his dental work. Together with his cousins once removed, and best friends, Alex Glib and Dmitriy Kukharchuk (Samoylov), he made a memorable trip to Peru in 2015. After graduating from ATSU in 2019, he went on a motorcycle trip across Europe, including Ukraine. He also rode a motorcycle across Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. He performed pro bono dental work in the Dominican Republic and ventured across the border into Haiti, despite unsafe conditions there. During his short life, he experienced more than most people would in their entire lifetime.
He took advantage of his down times as well by scaling back on his activities and rescheduling important work and decisions for later. He was able to manage it for some time. That is how he achieved a great education and professional success. As time passed by, the stressors of life started to take more and more effect on him. He fought back fiercely by seeking help from family, psychiatrists, and therapists. He also wrote in his diary, conversing with himself, deliberating about various decisions, looking for answers. On the endpaper of one diary book he wrote, “Don’t be sad that it’s over. Be grateful that it happened.”
George was predeceased by his mother and father. He is survived by his siblings: Serhiy, Vitaliy, Pavel, Helen, and Mariya; his stepmother, Vera Mironyuk; his sister-in-law, Nadya Geniush; his brother-in-law, Ilya Kobzar; his niece, Martha Myroniuk and her husband, Dmitriy Chaplin; his niece, Polina Myroniuk; his niece, Anya Kobzar; his nephew, Daniel Kobzar; his aunt, Nina Derevyanchuk and her husband Vasiliy; his aunt, Vira (Mironyuk) Vaplyaruk in Ukraine; as well as numerous cousins and their children.
Richard J. Misischia, DO, ’70, Land O’Lakes, Florida, died Sept. 15, 2023, at age 79. Richard was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a dedicated physician for over 43 years. Richard was born March 25, 1944 in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended Kent State University. In 1965, he married his lifelong wife and soulmate Theresa Gall. After marriage, he attended Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, and graduated in 1970. After 1 year of his medical residency, he was drafted into the Air Force as a Captain, and served 2 years at Williams Air Force Base in Phoenix, Arizona. Devoting his life to the care of his patients, he practiced Internal Medicine in Seminole, Florida for over 32 years, followed by another 11 years of practice in Tennessee and Land O’ Lakes, FL. He is preceded in death by his parents Nicholas and Margaret Misischia, and his sister Marjorie Mills. He is survived by his wife of 58 years Theresa, his brothers Frederick and Paul, 3 children: son Richard, DO, ’93, and wife Mary of Ashland, Kentucky, son Kevin, DO, ’96, and wife Kristin of Johnson City, Tennessee, and daughter Nichole Hebrank and husband Jeff of Odessa, Florida, 7 grandchildren: Richard and Samantha Misischia, Ashlyn Morehouse and her husband Chris, Nicholas Misischia and his wife Ashley, Emily Misischia, and Taylor and Jacob Hebrank, 3 great-grandchildren: Anthony, Leonardo, and Gianna. He also has many loving nieces and nephews.
David P. Myers, DO, ’77, Tucson, Arizona, died Dec. 31, 2023, at age 72. David was born 12/10/1951 to Dr. Harmon, ’54, and Edith (Hamilton) Myers in Kirksville, MO where his father was in medical school. The family returned to Arizona in 1954 where David grew up with a love of all things electronic, computer and ham radio. He was a member of the Tucson Boy’s Chorus and won the regional science fair in 1968. David graduated from Rincon High School in 1969 and the University of Arizona in 1973. He returned to Kirksville to attend medical school, graduating in 1977, then established a general medical practice in Tucson with his father. With the help of his long-term employee, lovely and charming Barb, Dave practiced osteopathic medicine for 44 years.
He is predeceased by his parents, son Christopher, granddaughter Alora, and survived by brother Mark (Tamra), sister Barbara, daughters Kristen (Sabino) and Cassandra (Jason), grandchildren Vienna and Phoenix, nieces and nephews, and Kathy, the love of his life.
David Perkel, DO, ’63, Macon, Georgia, died Nov. 2, 2023, at age 87. Dr. Perkel was born in West New York, New Jersey to Samuel Joseph and Sophie (Richman) Perkel. He was a graduate of Memorial High School, received a Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy from Rutgers University, and received his medical degree in 1963 from Kirksville College of Osteopathy & Surgery in Kirksville, Missouri. He began practicing medicine in 1964. Dr. Perkel moved to Oakland, New Jersey in 1969, where he continued to practice family medicine until his retirement in 2000. Dr. Perkel was certified in Family Practice by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians and was on the staff of Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, New Jersey until his retirement. He was beloved not only for his skill as a physician and diagnostician, but for his friendly and welcoming demeanor and ever-present wit that put generations of patients at ease.
Dr. Perkel had a life-long love of music, singing and playing clarinet and saxophone for family and friends throughout the years. In college, he enjoyed playing in his band, the Knight Kappers, and was a member of Musician’s Local of Jersey City.
Dr. Perkel was the devoted and loving husband of Susan Linda Perkel for 57 years, until her passing earlier this year from Lewy Body Dementia. Susan and David were inseparable and their love, devotion, and loyalty to each other set an example for their entire family to live up to. David is survived by his three loving sons, Jonathan Perkel (Lilibeth) of Manhattan, Jason Perkel (Lindsey Fyfe) of Goshen, Connecticut, and Joshua Perkel (Natalie) of Macon, Georgia, and his sister Linda Bedrock of East Windsor, New Jersey, his sister-in-law Janet Sutton (Bill) of York, England, and his brother-in-law Charles Chubak (Patricia) of Los Angeles, California. He is also survived by his seven adoring grandchildren, Aaron Perkel of Macon, Sophie Perkel of Connecticut, Abigail Rose “Abby Rose” Perkel of Macon, Lilian Perkel of Connecticut, Alexis “Lexi” Perkel of Manhattan, Benjamin “Benji” Perkel of Macon and Elizabeth “Betty” Perkel of Macon.
Robert J. Price, DDS, Vineyard, Utah, died Feb. 2, 2024, at age 79. Born August 3, 1944, in Los Angeles, California to Dorothy Daynes & Robert Alexander Price, he was the great grandson of Joseph J. Daynes, the tabernacle organist, and Wilford Woodruff, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Bob lived most of his life in Arizona. He attended Central High and Phoenix College where he was a two-sport athlete in football and wrestling. After serving a 2 ½ year mission to Austria for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he attended BYU where he met and married Darlene Tousley, the love of his life. They graduated together from BYU in the spring of 1969; and, upon graduation moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he attended and received his DDS from Loyola University Dental School. After dental school, he joined the Navy to see the world and was stationed at the Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma, Arizona.
Two years later, the family moved back to Phoenix where he began his 47-year dentistry practice. With retirement looming, his son Brandon joined the practice. Patients, staff, and Dr. Price were never happier than when Brandon came aboard—a lifelong dream for them both. He was active in many professional organizations which served the dental community: Mission of Mercy (free dental care to underprivileged and the homeless); volunteer at John C. Lincoln Children’s Dental Clinic; WREB examiner (Western Regional Examining Board) ; member of the Arizona Dental Association board and President for a term; and as an educator, he was a founding member of A.T. Still University’s Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health where he shared his wealth of experience with dental students on the clinic floor. He was voted Top Doc in 2004 by his peers for the Phoenix Magazine and, to his chagrin, was on the September 2004 cover issue.
He loved sports: ASU Football, the Phoenix Suns and AZ Diamondbacks. He was an avid water and snow skier for over 50 years with buddy Tom Hill. He served in many callings in the Church: he loved working with the Priests and Varsity scouts and the Sunbeams (3 year olds) in Primary. Together Bob and Darlene raised four amazing sons on a diet of church, sports, cars, dogs, and summers at the beach.
Bob is survived by his wife Darlene, sons John Ryan (Brigitte), Brandon Tousley, DMD, ’18 (Hillarie), and Christopher Woodruff (Kristal), as well as 16 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Ginna (Ernest) Baird of Phoenix, Richard (Nancy), Jeffrey (JoAnne) and Julie (Steven) Smart, the latter three of Sandy, Utah. He was preceded in death by his parents and his oldest son Robert Clayton “R.C.” Price.
John E. Rauch, DO, ’52, Columbus, Ohio, died Dec. 7, 2022.
Donald P. Robertson, DO, ’75, Medford, Oregon, died Feb. 14, 2024, at age 78. Don was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on September 10, 1945, to Jack and Mildred Robertson. He attended Berwick Academy in Maine, the University of New Hampshire, Tufts University in Massachusetts, and received his Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine from the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Missouri. After college he served as Command Surgeon for the United States Army in Korea and in 1978 moved to Eagle Point, Oregon and began practicing medicine serving the upper Rogue region of Southern Oregon for forty-five years.
From youth, Don was filled with adventuresome curiosity and a love of mankind. His compassion and desire to help others led him into medicine and while he had many interests, it was his patients that brought him the greatest joy. Doctor Don, as he was affectionately called, was graced with a legendary smile, a playful sense of humor, and the gift of making lifelong friendships wherever he went. He embodied the lines from the old song, “The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.” He did and was.
Survivors include Peter Robertson, brother, Joanne Dorn, sister, John Robertson, nephew, and his husband of 37 years, Richard McKinley, but Dr Don always considered his staff, patients, and friends as family. The memory of his smile will provide a light as we go forward.
Jeni Rogers, MHA, ’20, San Tan Valley, Arizona, died Dec. 22, 2023, at age 51. Jeni is survived by her parents Ann and John Allen; her husband Monte Rogers; her siblings Jana (Josh) Peterson, Matt (Shelli) Allen, and Lindsey (Tom) Bowen; children and family Jacob (Allison) Thompson, Ty Thompson, Bryce Thompson, Brittany (Ricky) Franco, Logan (Kenzlee) Rogers, Brooklyn (Matt) Mauff, Kade (Kaylee) Rogers, Shada Rogers and 18 grandchildren. Jeni was preceded in death by her daughter McKenna Thompson.
Jeni attended BYU and graduated from BYU Idaho with her Bachelors in Healthcare Administration. She continued on in her education to receive a Masters degree through AT Still University. Jeni loved to travel and enjoyed family time working hard. She will be greatly missed by many friends and family.
Matthew L. Rounseville, DO, ’73, Albuquerque, New Mexico, died Oct. 3, 2023, at age 82. A longtime Albuquerque physician, he was born June 2, 1941. Matthew practiced medicine for over 40 years in Albuquerque, New Mexico, mostly in the north valley where he had a large practice and would treat almost anyone. He never took appointments and always said “you don’t get sick by appointments”. He was always available to anyone who needed him. Matthew will be lovingly remembered for his love of animals, especially his horses and cats. He served on the New Mexico Horsemen’s Association and the New Mexico State Livestock Board for over 25 years. He was the track doctor in the Jocks room, to many of the horsemen, in his office and on the backside. He enjoyed raising and racing thoroughbred horses and actively participated in their care.
Matthew was preceded in death by his parents, William and Victoria Rounseville; his aunt, Edith Carellas and by his step son, Kenneth Moore. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Frenda; daughter, Rene Romero (Albert); son, Will Rounseville (Tammy); step-daughter Kristi Baca (Manuel); 9 grandchildren; 1 great-grandson and 1 on the way.
He was born and raised in Santa Fe, NM. He asked that all the people he loved and cared for remember him for his service to patients, friends and family. He truly loved being a physician.
John P. Scancarella, DO, ’68, Martinsville, New Jersey, died Oct. 13, 2023, at age 81. John was born and grew up in Clifton, New Jersey, the son of Frank and Anne (Amendola) Scancarella (both deceased). He attended Clifton High School, graduating just after his 17th birthday, in 1959. John graduated from the University of Maryland in 1963, and from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1968. He started his medical career in his hometown of Clifton and upon marriage in 1970, he and his wife Karol Kripsak moved to Bridgewater. He then established his own successful family practice. He was joined by Robert Lustig in 1987, and then his brother-in-law, Jack Kripsak in 1990.
In his youth, he was a star pitcher in Little League, where he threw 4 no hitters on his homefield of Weasel Brook Park. While at Clifton High School, John was President of his Class and was voted the most popular senior. He was an outstanding student athlete, and a three lettermen in football, basketball and baseball, and was selected to the Clifton Hall of Fame.
John and his wife Karol raised their two wonderful children, Jennifer Scancarella and Michael Scancarella in Bridgewater. The close-knit family spent wonderful vacations together at the Jersey Shore and in Naples, Florida. John was a long-standing member of Raritan Valley Country Club and Grey Oaks in Naples. He was very active in all his communities and played golf and tennis until his sudden passing.
Dr. Scancarella was a dedicated, caring, and compassionate physician and was loved by all his patients. He retired from a successful career in medicine in 2012. Dr. Scancarella was a member of his medical school’s alumni association for over 10 years, and in 1987, he became the President of the Alumni Association. Since retirement, he spent the warm months in Bridgewater, NJ and the winter months in Naples, Florida.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Karol, and their children, Jennifer Scancarella and Michael Scancarella; his loving brother, the retired Superior Court Judge, Honorable Joseph Scancarella and his wife Joan of Wayne, NJ and their children Douglas Scancarella and Dana Bryan and their families; his loving sister Nancy and her husband Dennis Updike, of Millburn, NJ and their children David Ferraro, John Ferraro, and Nick Ferraro and their families; and his brother-in-law Jack Kripsak, his wife Stacey and their three daughters, Laurel, Whitney and Courtney Kripsak; as well as numerous adoring grand nieces and nephews and friends.
Debra D. Severson, AuD, ’05, Arnolds Park, Iowa, died March 10, 2023, at age 69. She was born May 8, 1953, the daughter of Kenneth and Beverly Severson. Deb lived an active fun-filled life with her husband Richard Miske. She was born in Grafton, ND, before moving to Moorhead, MN where she graduated from high school. Deb went on to get a degree in Audiology from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Points and later obtained her doctorate Au.D from A.T. Still University in Mesa, AZ. She worked at a state hospital in MN before moving to northwest Iowa to take a job with Area Education Agency 4, in Sioux Center, IA. From there her career took her to Boston where she held various positions before she returned to Iowa when she married Richard Miske in 2001. They both worked for Northwest AEA serving deaf and hard of hearing students and Deb also provided services for many adults who wore hearing aids. In 2015, they retired from education and then shortly after that moved to Arnolds Park, IA. They loved to winter in Mesa, AZ as well as travel. Deb is survived by her husband, Richard, brother Steve (Deb) Severson, brother Mark (Debbie Jo) Severson and brother-in-law Robert (Christel) Miske and her uncle, Robert (Gail) Quam. She has many nephews and nieces and cousins. She was preceded by her parents and her sister, Pamela. She will be missed by many but is being held in God’s hands.
Jeffrey S. Stern, DO, ’79, Macomb, Michigan, died Dec. 14, 2022, at age 69. Family members include: Beloved husband of eleven years of Bobbi Stern. Loving father of Claire Stern, Lucy Stern and Ruby Stern. Cherished brother of the late Jonathon Stern, Judy (Mark) Feldman, Dr. Jason (Patricia) Stern. Adored son of the late Lee Stern and Edward Stern and Betty (Jack) Dworin. Also survived by many other family members and a world of friends.
Dr. Stern was the most loving husband, an amazing father, and the most compassionate physician.
Ray H. VanWyngarden, DO, ’77, Des Moines, Washington, died Aug. 10, 2022.
Jimmy L. Yowell, DO, ’76, Kirksville, Missouri, died Nov. 23, 2023, at age 80. The son of Lyle S. and Wilma Marie (Cremer) Yowell, he was born May 23, 1943 in Kirksville, Missouri. On February 2, 1963 he married Carolyn Price and to this union one son, Jeff was born. In 1978 in Princeton, Missouri he married Carol Rummerfield and they have one daughter, Delaine. Jimmy is survived by his wife, Carol; one son, Jeff Yowell and wife Tyia of Palmyra, MO; one daughter, Delaine Alejandro and husband Daniel of Vacaville, CA; five grandchildren, Heather, Britney, Drake, Koty, and Kourtney; eleven great grandchildren; two brothers, Larry Yowell of Kirksville and Bobby Yowell and wife Kristi of Baton Rouge, LA; Nieces and nephews, Lisa Coy and her children, Olivia and Claire; Bryan (Melissa) Yowell and their children, Nikki and Brianna; Kevin Yowell (April) and his children, Keegan, Kyle and Hailey; Tommy Yowell and Stephen Yowell. He was preceded in death by his parents and one daughter, Robbyn Sue.
Jimmy grew up in Kirksville and graduated from Kirksville Senior High School in 1961. He served six years in the United States Navy. After he was honorably discharged from the service he worked a short time for Hollister’s and then attended and graduated from Northeast Missouri State University and Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1967. He practiced family medicine for 27 years with practices in Princeton, MO, Carrollton, MO and retired from the University of Missouri in Brookfield, MO in 2003. He was a member of the Missouri Osteopathic Physicians, AOA, MAOS, the Kirksville Moose Lodge and was involved with Duck Unlimited and National Turkey Federation. He was baptized at the First Baptist Church. Jim loved fishing, hunting, playing cards and playing softball.
David L. Zonderman, DO, ’72, Mount Arlington, New Jersey, died Feb. 14, 2024.
Remembering a former president: James McGovern, PhD
ATSU’s 10th president, James McGovern, PhD, passed away in January 2024. He served as president from 1997-2008.
A New York native, Dr. McGovern earned his bachelor’s degree from Iona College and master’s degree from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, both in New York. He earned his doctorate from the Department of Administrative and Organizational Studies at New York University.
Dr. McGovern was a physics professor and served in many administrative positions, including Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio; Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia; the Illinois and Connecticut Boards of Higher Education; and the State University of New York. He was also director of health finance for the state of Illinois and director of the Issues Analysis Institute, part of the State University of New York.
In 1997, Dr. McGovern was appointed president of Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and, in 2001, oversaw the transition to a university structure and the new name, A.T. Still University of Health Sciences. During his tenure, he also saw the addition of three more graduate schools: ATSU’s School of Health Management in 1999 (now ATSU’s College of Graduate Health Studies), ATSU’s Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health in 2003, and ATSU’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona in 2006.
In 2003, he co-authored the book “Your Healer Within: A Unified Field Theory for Healthcare” with his wife, Rene McGovern, a former ATSU professor of neurobehavioral sciences.
“ATSU would not be the successful comprehensive health sciences institution it is today without the innovative ideas and leadership of Dr. James McGovern,” says Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84, chancellor, ATSU. “He believed deeply in ATSU’s mission and the osteopathic philosophy. I had the privilege of visiting with Dr. McGovern several times over the last year. I was deeply touched as I witnessed Dr. Rene McGovern and family members by Jim’s side providing endless love, care, and comfort during his final days.”