Page 12 - Bulletin Fall 2024

Executive Director’s Desk
In Memory Of...
Debbie Zorian DZorian@hcma.net
In the history of any organization, certain individuals stand as pillars, their contributions shaping its very identity. When such leaders pass away, their absence leaves a void that reso- nates with those who were privileged in knowing them.
The recent passing of Dr. Ger- ald Stoker, HCMA President at the time my employment began in 1986,
prompted me to think about the number of past presidents who have unfortunately passed away during my 38 years at the HCMA. It is with sadness yet gratitude to be able to reflect on these remarkable leaders.
Dr. Gerald Stoker (HCMA President 1986)
Dr. Stoker completed his residency in dermatology at the University of Michigan where he also taught as an assistant professor. Many may not be aware that he also attended law school prior to serving in the U.S. Air Force but decided to change career paths upon his return. He practiced dermatol- ogy in Tampa and later in Asheville, NC. for over 40 years. He was outgoing and very supportive of colleagues. His thriving practice while in Tampa allowed him to refer patients to other dermatologists just starting out.
Dr. Ralph Rydell (HCMA President 1987)
Dr. Rydell was an exemplary neurosurgeon in Tampa for over 40 years. He was Chief of Neurosurgery at Tampa General, St. Joseph’s and the former University Community Hospitals. After retirement, Dr. Rydell moved to Germany for two years to care for active-duty service members and their families at Landstuhl Army Hospital. He also made mission trips to Guatemala and Gaza.
As a fitness enthusiast and adventurer, Dr. Rydell participat- ed in more than 40 marathons and scaled some of the world’s highest peaks. In 2015, he took a trip around the world ‘without leaving the surface of the earth,’ traveling only by land and sea. His stated purpose was to better understand people, the history of ancient civilizations, origins of religion, and geography.
Dr. Miguel Alonso (HCMA President 1988)
Prior to setting up private practice as an otolaryngologist, Dr. Alonso served two years in the U.S. Air Force. He also spent time in Vietnam as a head & neck surgeon and performed mul- tiple complicated surgeries in a battle zone environment which
often included exploding rockets at close range. While in pri- vate practice, Dr. Alonso also served as Assistant Professor in the Department of OTO at USF. For a man of substantial stat- ure, Dr. Alonso spoke rather softly, however, he had the most boisterous and infectious laugh one could imagine.
Dr. F. Lane France (HCMA President 1989)
Dr. France began practice in Tampa by joining three other pediatricians. The practice expanded into what is now Pediatric Health Care Alliance. He also served as President of the Pedi- atric Society and served on many committees devoted to the health care of children. I was very fortunate to have Dr. France as my children’s pediatrician. I remember feeling exceptionally sad when he retired, knowing how much I would miss his kind- ness and sincerity.
During his tenure, Amendment 10 was placed on the No- vember ballot. The amendment put a limitation on non-eco- nomic damages in civil actions. This was my first experience participating in an amendment effort, allowing me to acquire a new understanding of political endeavors. Despite statewide efforts, locally led by Dr. France, the amendment did not pass.
Dr. William DeWeese (HCMA President 1990)
Dr. DeWeese moved from New Orleans to Tampa where he practiced neurosurgery for over 40 years. During his HCMA leadership, he was involved at the FMA where he served as VP of Ethics. Dr. DeWeese also served as Chief of Staff at St. Jo- seph’s Hospital. He was known to be remarkably genuine and unassuming with a dry sense of humor that could lighten up any situation.
Dr. DeWeese was a competitive tennis player and runner. He won several competitions and was ranked locally and regional- ly. His other passion was flying his single engine plane. Back in the day, when many FMA Annual Meetings were held in south Florida, he would offer to expedite the travel by flying a few of us to Miami. I think he got a chuckle out of seeing the look of terror on my face.
Dr. Lawrence Cohen (HCMA President 1991)
As a successful and kindhearted Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr. Co- hen mended the broken bones and spirits of many, especially children. He touted that medicine was the focus of his life. After his service as a physician in the U.S. Air Force, he moved to Tampa where he began private practice which lasted 33 years
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HCMA BULLETIN, Vol 70, No. 2 – Fall 2024