I am sorry to learn of your loss. Ralph was a GREAT man and loved by many. He was a tremendous influence on me and he helped shape the physician that I became. He taught and lead by example in an effortless manner. Thru observation, I learned how to navigate my way thru patient care, and occasional tense situations by his example.
He was kind in a simple way and never ostentatious. I recall once going into a little boys hospital room, maybe 7 or 8 years old, who had sustained a horrible broken leg. He was in traction and naturally afraid. Before going in the room Ralph asked me to go get an orange from the cafeteria for him. This simple gesture defused most of the boys anxiety and allowed us too easily adjust his traction.
He was creative. Elective surgery is usually planed and repetitive almost like a recipe in a cookbook. Trauma surgery is a whole different game. You never know what you will have to work with. I often marveled at how he could repair a traumatic injury in such a creative manner, in real time, and effect a successful outcome.
He was a gentleman who treated residents, interns, and students with respect, never losing his temper when we made inevitable mistakes. He simply advised how to avoid the mistake going forward.
I could go on and on with my memories of him. He was a GREAT man, and A, he had you, a Great partner........together making a GREAT team. I am so thankful that both of you came into my life. I am better for it.
Your loving friend,
Herb Kosmahl