PETER ANTHONY CASSILETH

CASSILETH, PETER ANTHONY, of Coral Gables, FL, died peacefully at home on June 6th, 2011, at age 73, after a lengthy struggle with leukemia. Born in New York City, he was a graduate of the Fieldston School in New York City, Union College, and Columbia University Medical School, all entirely on full academic scholarship. He was a loving father to his children and stepchildren, and an exceptionally loving husband. He added to people's lives and impacted everyone he met with his intelligence, humor, kindness, generosity and warmth. He was a superb physician, teacher, and mentor to generations of young physicians. He was truly a unique multi- faceted man: NY Times puzzle expert, skilled do-it-yourself home rebuilder, and confidant and friend to many. He brought light, life, and joy to all of those around him. He was Professor of Medicine in the Division of Hematology- Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania. While there he helped create and was Director of the Bone Marrow Transplant unit. In 1992 he came to the University of Miami as Professor and Division Chief of Hematology- Oncology and was instrumental in developing the bone marrow transplant unit at Jackson Memorial Hospital. He made important contributions in the area of hematology and particularly in leukemia and lymphoma research. He authored over 140 journal articles, made contributions to many medical texts and peer-reviewed articles for medical journals. He worked with the American Board of Internal Medicine in many capacities including Chair of the hematology certification examination and as a member of the Executive Committee. A gifted and beloved teacher, he deeply enjoyed his students and the energy they brought to his life and his practice. He is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years, Judith Ratzan; his children Jodi Cassileth Greenspan, Wendy Cassileth, and Gregory and Lisa Cassileth; stepchildren Stuart and Mycki Ratzan, Peter and Jill Ratzan, and Jacob Ratzan; and grandchildren Michael, Robert, Rachel, Albert, Sloane, Archer, Baylar, Leo, Robyn and Isaac. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM on Friday, June 10th at Temple Beth Am, 5950 N. Kendall Drive, Pinecrest, Florida 33156. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations should be made to University of Miami, Peter A. Cassileth Award Attn: Susan Martin, 1475 NW 12th Avenue, Suite 3300, Miami, FL 33136. View this Guest Book at www. MiamiHerald.com/obituaries.