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Donald Piermattei Obituary
Dr. Donald Piermattei, DVM, PhD died peacefully at his home of cancer on January 28th. Dr Piermattei was internationally known for his teaching, writing, and surgical expertise in the field of small animal orthopedics. He was author or co-author of over 90 book chapters and journal articles as well as author of SURGICAL APPROACHES TO THE BONES OF THE DOG AND CAT as well as co- author of ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY OF THE BONES OF THE DOG AND CAT. He was awarded the Lifetime Achievement award by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, the Founders Award by ACVS and the Lifetime Acheivement Award from the European College of Veterinary Surgery, as well as the the Paatsaama Award by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association.
During his professional career he was head of Surgery at Texas A and M, recieved his PhD at Colorado State University in cardiovascular surgery, accepted the position of Chief of Surgery and Radiology at The University of Minnesota, and after private referral surgery practice in Denver returned to Colorado State University as Chief of Small Animal Surgery.
Don had a lifetime love of aviation and after retirement built three airplanes and flew them from his airstrip near Carr, Co. When he retired from flying he spent time hiking and riding his beloved mule "Babe".
Don sang in the choir at St Luke's Episcopal Church, Ft Collins and his meorial service will be held at St Luke's, 2000 Stover St, Ft Collins on February 11 at eleven o'clock.
He is survived by his son David, his wife Marcia, and hundreds and hundreds of grateful animal patients.
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Memories and Condolences
for Donald Piermattei
David M Loss
September 29, 2024
Don so sorry we all lived seperate lives. We are so proud of your acomplishments . Our children know all about you . I know Dad would be so proud also your Uncle Dick (Richard) Loss. Memories from you cousin David Loss and family .
Rod Straw
February 16, 2017
Teacher, mentor, colleague and friend - RIP, Don.
Rich Bradley
February 15, 2017
Dr Piermattei was a great mentor from 1977 - 1980 during my surgical residency CSU and truly of legend of our time. His example and training was an instrumental part of my career. The profession and ACVS has lost a great leader in the field of Veterinary Surgery. Dr Rich Bradley, DACVS in Virginia.
Jolynn Chappell
February 10, 2017
Dear Marcia and David
Dr. Piermattei was one of my favorite professors at CSU. He was always so calm and kind to not only the animals but students and everyone around. This made such an amazing learning environment! I will never forget when a student made a mistake in a hip replacement surgery that would have (and did) set off everyone else into a panic but Dr. Piermattei calmly explained why that was the not proper procedure and proceeded to get things going to correct the situation.
What a knowledgeable, amazing and compassionate person he was. He will be greatly missed by all and he has left such a legacy for all of us to follow.
My deepest condolences to you.
Nat White
February 2, 2017
Wonderful colleague, great surgeon. I will remember his kindness as an educator.
Allen Landes
February 2, 2017
Dear Marcia, I want express my and my familie's most sincere condolences on the passing of Don. He was a great veterinarian, colleague and friend to me. I will never forget his kindness, his knowledge, and his humility.
I recently read an interview Don did for DVM Magazine in in 2006. This was the last question posed to Don: What makes a good veterinarian?
Don's Answer:The same things that make a good and productive citizen: honesty, integrity, respect for and tolerance of all, and concern for the welfare of all living creatures.
That was the way Don lived his life.
He truly was a great man and will be greatly missed. God bless you and your family.
Merry Crimi
February 1, 2017
Dearest Marcia and David,
The animal kingdom was truly graced by Don's genuine kindness, modesty, curiosity and competence. He was second to none; a man who led by example with his demonstrable compassion for both the animal kingdom and all of humanity.
May peace provide a warm embrace for both of you as the world shares it's love for a legend lost; a model professional, who served as mentor and friend for thousands of us in veterinary medicine, and brought hope, healing and innovation to countless companion animals and pet owners.
Because of Don, how we and the veterinary teams of the future choose to use our hands, our energy, our time and our hearts, will forever be altered.
With gratitude for the innumerable ways he impacted my life, and with appreciation for each of you for the untold ways you've supported him in pursuing his passions -
Love always,
Merry Crimi, DVM
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