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Herbert Erlanger Obituary

ERLANGER--Dr. Herbert L. M.D., May 1, 1925-September 27, 2007. Dr. Erlanger became a member of the Department of Anesthesiology at New York Hospital in 1957, after completing his undergraduate degree at Columbia College and his medical education at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. He was on the faculty for clinical anesthesiology and related sciences at Weill Medical College of Cornell University for almost half a century. From 1990 to 2005 he was the coordinator of the Weill Cornell preanesthesia testing center, where he charted more than 100,000 patients. More recently, he was an associate professor at John Jay College and Borough of Manhattan Community College, both of the City University of New York. Dr. Erlanger was an avid fitness enthusiast and a devoted member of the bass section of several New York City choruses. He leaves his loving wife, Dr. Jane Katz, son, Robert K. Erlanger, daughter, Holly Knight, and five grandchildren. Service Sunday 11:45am at the "Riverside", 76th Street and Amsterdam Avenue. Donations may be made to John Jay College Foundation for Wellness in memory of Dr. Herbert L. Erlanger at 555 West 57th Street, NY 10019.

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Published by New York Times on Sep. 29, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
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Martin Ehrenberg, M.D., F.A.C.S.

November 7, 2007

Dr. Erlanger was a warm, compassionate physician, who cared tremendously for his fellow man. Dr. Erlanger will be sorely missed.

Lenora Larson

October 29, 2007

I had the joy of meeting Herb and his wife Jane at the resort Rancho La Puerta. The joy and inspiration that Herb brought to all he met was amazing. Early in Sept. I had the pleasure of spending a couple of hours with Herb and Jane at one of their favorite places to relax in New York, The Plaza Athenee. The interest and enthusiasm that Herb brought to life and conversation and people and their journeys is a lesson for all of us. Herb and Jane were one of the most special couples I have ever met. It was really magic to see them together. Jane must know that even though Herb is not on this earth plane with her, he is still forever by her side. I remember all the joyous times we shared at the ranch. There will be a special place in the hearts and minds of all the people that Herb met and touched at the ranch, during those special summers. He will be missed greatly. My thoughts and prayers are with Jane and all his family and friends.

Robert J. Blankfein, MD

October 6, 2007

Herb was a very special person and a dear friend. Many years ago I first met Herb at a swim club where he and his wife Jane swam. After meeting and talking with him for the first time I knew I was in the presence of a kind and caring person with much insight into the human mind and spirit. He was full of fun, and his charm and optimism were always apparent. His vast knowledge of medicine and his kindness to everyone were felt immediately. Herb, you were great and we miss you deeply.
Bob and Leslie Blankfein

Terry LaRocca-Napolitano

October 5, 2007

I was so saddened to hear of Herb's passing. It was always such a pleasure to meet him whether in the halls of NY Hospital or on the streets of Manhattan. My deepest sympathy to Jane. Terry LaRocca Napolitano

Ralph & Allison Slepian

October 4, 2007

To a wonderful,warm, caring individual.Always a smile,always a sincere conversation.We will miss you.

Patricia Hammarth

October 1, 2007

I was lucky enough to work with Herb, as well as sing with him in the PCC. He always was full of enthusiasm and encouragement for those of us with less singing experience than himself.He will be missed.

Todd Patton, M.D.

October 1, 2007

Herb is a special friend who will be deeply missed. Herb had a curiosity about everyone he met that is very rare anywhere, especially New York City. I will always remember and cherish our philosophical discussions over wine and dinner. Herb had a depth of knowledge and experience that provided him with fascinating insights into the human condition. Shalom.

Rosemary and Bob Young

September 29, 2007

Herb became our friend when he met Jane, who Rosemary knew from childhood. He was one of the most positive and curious persons we have ever met. He was rarely ruffled by unpleasant events and gave more then he received in life. We will miss him.

Sidonie Erlanger

September 28, 2007

my grandfather Herb was one of the friendliest warm-hearted people i know. He could walk into a room with a million strangers and walk out with a million more friends. He had a long fufilling life full of many adventures and many loving people who miss him so very much. We all remember his loving smile and heart. He affected and touched many people's lives in one way or another, he will stay in my heart forever and i will never forget his laugh and his presence.

Dylan Knight

September 28, 2007

Herb was my hero. He was also my grandfather. He was all about being happy in life and loving everybody. He is an old soul. He soul will be with us forever.

Vinny and Vidya Malhotra

September 28, 2007

Herb was Herb!An infectious smile,a pep in his step,warm in his greetings,honest to the bone,a skier,a swimmer. Caring and interested in others.I believe he holds the age record of working in our anesthesiology department past 80.Peace.

Pavel Illner

September 28, 2007

Dear Herb,
I will miss your friendly smile, your compassionate interest in your fellow humans, your old-world wisdom.
May you rest in peace.

Jack Eppler

September 28, 2007

My friend Herb had the spirit of a man at least two decades younger. For the last few years he was a member of my community chorus, where he gave a lot of confidence to the other basses. He wanted to stretch his limits, and it showed in his progress as a singer. He was very proud in the last few weeks that I praised his legato, and to turn the table, he always made me feel good by coming into my studio with ample compliments for me.

Brenna Stein

September 28, 2007

My deepest condolences for Herb's passing. He was a terrific person who always took the time to say hello and ask how the family was. It was my pleasure to have known him as well as have worked with him for the 21 years that I have been here at NY Hospital.

Kristen Adams

September 28, 2007

In addition to his clinical expertise, Dr. Erlanger added his exceptional warmth and charm to our departmental workplace everyday. He helped shape the friendly family like culture within our department. I miss him.

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