John Edward Pless, MD
Passed away on March 17, 2014. He was born in Bedford, Indiana on August 26, 1938. He was the son of the late Carl and Virginia Pless. He graduated from Bedford High School, Indiana University and Indiana School of Medicine. He was a Board Certified Forensic Pathologist, a Captain in both the Army and the Army Reserves, and a Professor at the Indiana School of Medicine.
Dr. Pless won numerous awards for his work as a Forensic Pathologist, including the Outstanding Service Award for the National Association of Medical Examiners, the Milton Helpern Award for Outstanding Contributions to Forensic Sciences and the Distinguished Alumni Award from Indiana University School of Medicine and also a Culbertson Professor Emeritus.
Dr. Pless was on the U.S. State Department team for the investigation of the Death of Chief Moshood Abiola, supported by Africa Fund and Physicians for Human Rights. He held positions on several specialty boards, and was a member of many professional societies including the Indiana Association of Pathologists.
He is survived by his wife, Lois Pless; daughters, Jan (Brian) Whitesell, Cindy Pless Boschen; son, Josh (Tricia Csire) Pless; grandchildren, Carly, Tess, Cole and Brody Whitesell, Austin and Brooke Boschen and Katy Pless.
A memorial service will be held on April 11, 2014 in St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 6050 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, starting at 10 a.m., with a reception to follow in the Parish Hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to one of the following organizations:
IU School of Medicine, AMPATH/Kenya Program, IU Foundation, P.O. Box 6460, Indianapolis, IN 46206, The Villages 3833 N. Meridian Street, Suite 101, Indianapolis, IN 46208 or the St. Paul Episcopal Church, 6050 N. Meridian, Indianapolis, IN 46208.
Arrangements entrusted to Albertson's Metro Mortuary, Sherman Chapel , Indianapolis.
http://www.albertsonsmetromortuary.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
A great professor, a kind man, and one who brought great knowledge and enthusiasm to his lectures. Will always remember his smile.
Annilee Rohrscheib
June 29, 2016
A special man and professor who brought enthusiasm, intelligence and humor into everything he did. He was just as comfortable in Bedford playing in a ragtime band as he was a distinguished professor of national acclaim. He will be missed and my sympathy to Lois and the kids on his passing. Mike Passo
Michael Passo
September 25, 2014
I was saddened to hear about the passing of Dr. Pless. He was a mentor to many, but to me a true friend. I was lucky enough to have worked closely with him for over 8 years and learned a lot from him. He taught me how to be me and do it with respect, integrity and a smile. I thank him for that wisdom - it has taken me far.
Amanda McDowell
April 8, 2014
Dr. Pless was a warm, caring and wonderful man. He was pleased to share his knowledge, a "hello", or his kind smile whenever he was around. Thank you Dr. Pless for assisting me throughout my career. You will be greatly missed! My condolences to the family.
Kim Beamon
April 7, 2014
Dr. Pless was a fine man - a man of his word - well educated and served this community with distinction. He is missed.
DT Smith
April 6, 2014
John was one of the bright lights from our 1963 medical school class. His warming smile & optimistic attitude will missed by all. Condolences to the family.
Phillip Mosbaugh
April 6, 2014
We were very sorry to hear about John's death. I will always remember his skill and expertise in the autopsy room.
Robert Graves
April 6, 2014
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