Dr. Luis Santaella

1938 - 2013

Dr. Luis Santaella obituary, 1938-2013, San Diego, CA

BORN

1938

DIED

2013

Luis Santaella Obituary

Santaella, Dr. Luis SAN DIEGO -- Dr. Luis Ramon Santaella was born August 13, 1938 in San Juan, Puerto Rico and peacefully passed away in his sleep on September 5, 2013. Luis received degrees from Yale University (spending a year at the Sorbonne, Paris) and Jefferson Medical School; later served in the U.S. Army, obtaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and receiving an Army Medal of Merit for his services. In private practice, he worked as a pathologist and family practitioner in Southern California and was known for his generosity in treating low income patients often for free. He was an avid bird watcher, extensive traveler and linguist, speaking several languages. He is survived by his life partner, mother, two siblings, four children, and eight grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Audubon Society are requested.

Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Sep. 22, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
for Luis Santaella

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Soy de Puerto Rico de niña apreciaba una bella casa en Jagueyes de Aguas Buenas...Su dueño se llamaba Luis Santaella quizás no sea el mismo pero escribo este mensaje porque esta persona fue humilde le daba trabajo a los pobres..de buen corazón..algún día lo veremos en la resurrección........

Maria Silva

Other

September 21, 2023

Miss you Luis and will always remember and appreciate the love you had for my brother, Mary Ann

Mary Christerson (McCormack)

Family

September 16, 2020

Thanks AS--so sweet

Thank you so much! But not sure who you are? Certainly a friend of Luis's or mine. Identify yourself my friend and thank you so much for your condolences. I so appreciate it and would like to acknowledge your sympathy. MUCH love from myself and Luis, especially. I want to know the loving people who loved Luis also. I miss him as you must also. Please get in touch: [email protected]. You cannot know how you have helped my heavy heart! Thank you! Dennis

February 15, 2014

I wish I got to know you better.

A S

February 13, 2014

Dennis, sorry for your loss. I know you two had a beautiful life together and Luis will be missed by all.

jLee

January 14, 2014

jann m

January 14, 2014

Although I really didn't get to know Dr. Luis, I did begin to know & love Dennis. Through this, I KNOW Luis must have been a wonderful man, because I know Dennis truly loved him. Namaste Dr. Luis (and Dennis).

jann manning

January 13, 2014

•Dennis, we are very sorry for your loss. Luis was such a great person, and he will live on in our memories forever. We are glad, that we met him in May and spent such a great day in Warnemünde!

Barbara & Hans Schulte

Barbara & Hans Schulte

November 27, 2013

As Luis' physician, I remember his perseverance and strength. He was a fully committed partner to his beloved Dennis. I miss his wit, always made me laugh, in the last years swinging that colorful cane around. He was humble. He engaged in life to the end, going on great trips with Dennis. I miss him.

Joseph Caperna

October 20, 2013

We have such happy memories of Luis, walking around the streets of London and earlier this year being together in Amsterdam - such a fun time. Our hearts and thoughts go out to Dennis and Luis's family. We had a gem in Luis and his lustre will never fade. Our love always, Eileen and David Babb, Reading, UK.

Eileen and David Babb

October 18, 2013

I will always remember Dr. Santaella as someone I admired and adored. He was so much fun to be around. My condolences go out to everyone.

Kathryn Kappler

October 11, 2013

My Dearest Luis, Remembering 'the best of times' we had when I would visit on the many Broadway tours. What fun seeing you hold up my Chrysler Building dress from The Producers!! I expect you to have the champagne popped & ready when we join you. Love Always, Lee Roy Reams

Lee Roy Reams

October 8, 2013

I introduced Dennis and Luis on a Sunday afternoon many years ago. I think it was one of my better social accomplishments. Theirs was the more lasting and satisfying relationships that I was privileged to witness. Jim Flanagan

October 3, 2013

Frank Koll

October 2, 2013

I've never written anything about anyone before, so I'm not sure how it will turn out…but here goes.

I met Luis in the summer of 1998 - what a special person this man was. I'll remember his wealth of knowledge, his love for birds, and his love for being around his friends. I found it incredibly easy to be around him even though we came from very different backgrounds. He was a no-nonsense guy who would tell you exactly what he thought of you or what you were doing, and at the same time would be understanding and compassionate towards you either way.

Mostly I remember his laugh, and how it made me smile and want to laugh along with him. We were extremely lucky to have the group of friends we had at our little pub/watering hole – camaraderie defined. We would sit for HOURS and play dice, a simple game that really seems to bring folks together. He would try to cheat overtly, and we would shut him down every time (my guess is he got away with it more than we knew, his little secret). He would yell at the top of his lungs when he thought he had a score that he didn't which would make all of burst into laughter while he pouted, but not for too long.

As people often do, it seemed we all slowly drifted away from each other. Maybe we'd see each other at Pride each year, a trip to the loft, etc. Those visits became more infrequent in the last 4-5 years for whatever reason. I regret not making more of an effort to see him (and you too Dennis) over the years. That's something I will have to live with, and hopefully learn from.

I love and miss you buddy. I pray that wherever you are in the universe that when you ring that stupid little bell of yours…they come running with whatever you ask for - because they have no idea what's in store for them if they don't!

Go easy Santaella,

Jason McCorman

October 1, 2013

I will miss you, Luis! So very much! My heart breaks for you, Dennis, and for all of us that love him. So glad we had good times together! Good memories! Love, Marsha

Marsha Baria

September 30, 2013

dear luis. good night god bless it was a pleasure to meet such a wonderful man all my love keefer from England xxx

keefer

September 30, 2013

So glad I had a chance to meet and know Luis in those few days I visited him and Dennis in San Diego.
Charles Smith, Williamsburg, Va.

September 28, 2013

‘I will miss you, my dear Luis. I feel blessed to have met you and have you as my friend. We shared fun times together along with Dennis.
Dennis, I love you and my heart aches for you as I know you are grieving beyond belief. Dwell on the many, many, happy memories that you shared.
May God bless you and I will always be your Mama KK '

Kay Johnson

September 28, 2013

Dennis McCormack

September 27, 2013

Dennis McCormack

September 27, 2013

Dennis McCormack

September 27, 2013

I am sorry I didn't physically meet Luis but am enjoying getting to know him through Denny. Denny has some wonderful memories to fill his soul with calm.

C. G. Uebel

September 27, 2013

Nunca dejaré de echarte de menos, querido hermano, y te recordaré siempre.

Idalie

Idalie Santaella

September 27, 2013

We traveled with Luis and Dennis in Peru and greatly enjoyed our time together, both in the field birding and in the evening get-togethers. A follow-up evening in San Diego let us re-live those good memories and cement our friendship.

Peter & Carol

Peter Relson

September 27, 2013

As Dennis's sister, I am very sorry for his loss. Luis was a truly genuine person who cared greatly for my brother. He was a wonderful champion and provider for Denny. As with everyone he met, Luis was very kind to me, sincerely interested in conservation and my well-being.

In the McCormack family, we pride ourselves as "Irishmen" and although Luis was born in Puerto Rico, I couldn't help but notice an elfish grin and sparkle in this eye that emanated a certain Irish charm.
That's the way I will remember him.

May God bless Luis and keep him in His loving care and comfort.

Mary Ann Christerson(McCormack)

September 27, 2013

Just a prayer from those who loved you,
Just a memory fond and true,
In our hearts you will live forever
Because we thought the world of you.
My condolences to his friends and family and most of all to Dennis.
Patricia McHugh, New York City

September 27, 2013

I met Luis over twenty years ago having been introduced by a friend. I was amazed at his intellect and breadth of knowledge and I must admit that I was impressed that he had attended both Andover and Yale just like the first Presifent Bush.

I had the pleasure of taking Luis on his first ever visit to Las Vegas and introducing him to "Sin City." Luis was a kind and gentle and a true gentleman. He will be missed. I wish all my condolences to his friends and family and especially to Dennis.

Paul Johnson

September 27, 2013

Luis has been my Friend for 15 years plus.What made our Friendship even more cherished is that he indeed masterd several Languages , including my own Native German . He has lived in Germany and so it was that we had a lot in common. His fond appreciation of classical music and Opera made our Friendship even closer , for I do love to sing Opera my self . It was he and his Friend Dennis who encourage me some 13 years ago to go and Audition for the San Diego Opra . And yes ,- perhaps it is why that I am a member of the Opera Chorus still today .Luis,-of course had Opera Season Tickets for the entire Opera Season each year and we always met right after each Performance. Indeed we had a great time together. It is now with his passing that I shall have great Memories of which I will keep within my heart for ever .
Rest in Peace my Friend

Rof Barnick San Diego CA

September 26, 2013

It has been a great pleasure knowing Luis for nearly 20 years. I spent many a night having great conversations with him and Dennis, at the Hole and later, at the Loft. We had some other great times too, like going to the Wild Animal Park and a Road-trip to Yosemite that I will always remember.He could talk about any subject, as he had more knowledge than anyone I have ever met, he was just that smart. His absence will leave a hole in many of our hearts for a long time to come, but he lived his life with a great Gusto, traveled the world many times over, making friends wherever he went. Luis, you will be missed, but not forgotten for thendships you gave us.

Lance Boone

September 26, 2013

I didn't know Luis well but the few times we had dinner I really enjoyed his company. He will be sorely missed by all who met him.
Tom Lincoln

September 26, 2013

A fine man, and I'll miss him. Miss talking about Lucille Bremer, among other things.

Chris Schneider

September 26, 2013

Always friendly and always a friend. You'll be miss greatly.

Sean Edington

September 26, 2013

Always enjoyed being around Luis
John Addeo

September 26, 2013

Rest in peace, Dad. You will forever be in our hearts.

Suzy

September 26, 2013

I only met Luis a few times, but I found him to be a lovely person and a wonderful companion for Dennis. Now that it is too late, I am so, so sorry I did not get into Hillcrest to meet with both of them.

Dave Gregson

David Gregson

September 26, 2013

I had the pleasure of meeting Luis when my daughter Sarah lived in San Diego. Whenever I would visit we always made a point to go to The Hole to visit with the boys - especially Luis (and Dennis). So many fond memories, great conversations, and many laughs. Luis will be remembered by all those whose soul he touched.

Andy Lentine

September 26, 2013

A gentle and good-natured man with a fine sense of humor. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.

Ed

September 26, 2013

Luis made the world brighter for everyone he touched. I wish I had had more time with him, but I am grateful for knowing him the little bit that I did. He made people feel instantly at ease and as if they had known him for years. And he certainly was kind and funny. Love to Dennis and Luis' family.
Mary Klein, St Pete Beach, FL

Mary Klein

September 26, 2013

Luis was a kind and caring person who loved our family as his own. I will always remember their trips into Cincinnati, our trip to California (braving a daring boarder crossing into TJ), and more important being apart of my wedding day. He will be missed but not forgotten.

John McCormack

September 26, 2013

Luis...What a great guy: captivating, funny, interesting, generous, smart, well-versed and read, so international, all his languages...
Who would through the whole process of learning German grammar?! Luis did.

I feel privileged in having known Luis for about 30 years. He knew me as a 9 year old, as well as a 40+ person. He started out as the dad of my friends', and ended up being my friend, which doesn't happen every day. He was one of my anchors to my past in San Diego, and he's gone now--the loss is felt. San Diego won't be the same for me without him.
I hope he's somewhere in that Great Beyond, perhaps with my mom!
I hope he puts in a good word for me!

--Eric Hamilton

Eric Hamilton

September 26, 2013

The Hole, The Dancing Queen, Mamma KK singing, Kevin Cavanaugh playing the piano and singing with KK - ahhhhhhhh the memories. I am so lucky to have had you as a part of my life. May sweet angels sing thee to thy rest.

Mary Gill Savoren

September 25, 2013

Such a dear friend. Generous heart, always fun, brilliant intellect. Compassionate and loving. You will be missed by many.

Bill Everett

September 25, 2013

I have known Luis (and Dennis) as my neighbors for almost 20 years, but it was only very recently that we really had a chance to hang out more often. Luis was a very charming and funny soul. I (we) will miss him dearly. Tu estas con Dios, mi amigo.

Evie

September 25, 2013

Luis made this world a little easier for many that we do not know. They know and Luis knew. It will not be forgotten.

Duncan Green

September 25, 2013

Luis was one of the most intelligent and compassionate men I have ever met. His wisdom and zest for life touched all of those who had the honor to know him. Rest in peace, dear Luis.

Felice Chiapperini

September 25, 2013

My travel friend Sheila and I were fortunate to share the table with Luis and Dennis on our Christmas cruise to Hawaii in 2011. We enjoyed our conversations with the two of them. I am sorry to learn of Luis's passing. To Dennis and the rest of Luis's family, I offer my sincere condolences. Rest in peace, Luis.

Jacquelyn Hahn

September 24, 2013

Weezie,
You will be greatly missed. Always enjoyed hearing your stories and loved your mischievous smile. Goodbye my friend...

Frank M Koll

Frank Koll

September 24, 2013

We have many wonderful memories of Luis. From him calling to Dennis to bring a drink, to watching birds out on our deck, to celebrating our sons wedding. I can't remember a time when Luis wasn't a part of our family. He was a wonderful person. We will miss him tremendously. However, we have many memories, that will stay with us a lifetime. God Bless you Luis May Our Lord guide you safely home. Our love, Mark and Rita

September 24, 2013

Descansa en paz Tío, te quiero muchísimo!

Tony Hatcher Santaella

September 24, 2013

A physician, bird lover, linguist, world traveller, companion and wry observer of the world...At a time when the world needs more Luis' we lose the one we have.

Johnny

September 24, 2013

The only part of my life that mattered. Dennis

Dennis McCormack

September 24, 2013

Luis was a kind loving man who brought

out the best in all of us. Rest in peace,dear friend.

Patrick Shea

September 23, 2013

Lance Boone

September 23, 2013

In the 70's Dale and I dined often with Luis and Susannah. What a character! Condolences, Jay Eggers

September 23, 2013

Luis was a kind, gentle man. I enjoyed playing Scrabble with Luis and Dennis at Mom's house, although Mom would give Luis a bit of help finding high scoring words! Rest in peace, Luis, say "hi" to Mom.

Jo Anne Kalber

September 23, 2013

Luisito was one of my best friends ever. I will always remember him as a brilliant man, funny, caring and smart.
Ana Rita Suarez

Ana Rita Suarez

September 23, 2013

Scotti Brumfield

September 22, 2013

Luis was not only a Fantastic doctor, he was a brilliant man and a great dad. I always enjoyed seeing him at various gatherings in rancho sante fe, and in Mexico.
Our love goes out to the whole family, especially john.
Liz, Cyrus and Ramsey Smith

Elizabeth Smith

September 22, 2013

Echaremos de menos el buen doctor. Descansa en paz viejo amigo.

Russell Lewis

September 22, 2013

I met Luis only once in Cincinnati but I felt close to him right off. He was a great man!!! So glad I got to meet him !!!

Tom Nauer

September 22, 2013

We met Luis and Dennis on a cruise to the Hawaiian Islands and the South Pacific. We were immediately drawn to the positive energy they both exuded. We had hoped to travel together in the future, but unfortunately, that was not meant to be. We were in contact by email with Dennis, sharing the events in our lives. I will remember Luis's beautiful smile and know he's smiling down on us. With Love, Carol and Jack Whalen

CAROL WHALEN

September 22, 2013

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