It is with a heavy heart that we must share with you the news that John "Jack" Delaney, MD, PhD, passed away last night in the peace and company of family and friends. Jack was a consummate clinician, educator, and researcher. Over the years, he refined his practice to both endocrine and breast cancer, ultimately setting the stage for creating a division of Surgical Oncology. Jack's education style was aspirational for us all. His ability to teach while asking a question is as much a testament to his humility as it is a demonstration of his command of surgery. Jack was the role model of the surgical scientist. He maintained a lab for more than half a century and trained countless fellows from across the globe. His address to the Department as the alumnus of the year crystallized the "raison d'être of the department." 

As recently as last month, we had the opportunity to meet with Jack to strategize how he might continue his research efforts and continue his mentorship. We were most struck by his ability to promote departmental success over personal growth. This generosity of his time and effort is reflected in his summary of his experiences with the medical school, as recorded in an interview with Dr. Dominique Tobell in the History of Medicine.

Along with his wife, Mary, Jack invested his time directly into supporting the social network in this department to promote faculty inclusivity. While his physical presence will be missed, his impact on the department is indelible.

Thank you, Jack, for all you have done for us.

Sayeed Ikramuddin, MD, MHA
Greg Beilman, MD
David Rothenberger, MD 

Link to Obituary