Hugh James Lurie

1935 - 2014

Hugh James Lurie

Hugh James Lurie M.D. died in Seattle September 28, 2014. Born in Chicago, May 22, 1935, he was the son of the late Harold and Gertrude Lurie.

He was a graduate of Columbus High School in Columbus, Indiana, Harvard College and Yale Medical School. He trained as a pediatrician at Johns Hopkins Hospital and completed a residency in adult and child psychiatry at McLean Hospital and Children's Hospital--Judge Baker Guidance Center in Boston. He served as a pediatrician at the U.S. Naval Air Station on Whidbey Island.

In his position as Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science at the University of Washington, he coordinated and taught the behavioral science program for physician assistants (MEDEX) for more than 25 years. He pioneered the use of professional actors to portray patients in role plays with students, utilizing the talents of many in Seattle's theatre community. He went on to produce more than 80 teaching videos for family physicians, physician assistants, and mental health workers.

Dr. Lurie also served as Medical Director, Tacoma-Pierce County Child Guidance Clinic, and for many years he was Chief Psychiatrist at the Mental Health Clinic, Good Samaritan (MultiCare) Hospital in Puyallup, WA.

His great enthusiasm for chamber music was lifelong. He delighted in playing music at home, including house concerts with friends. He was an active participant in music workshops in the United States and Europe and was a longtime member of Orchestra Seattle. Friends and family will remember his pleasure in playwriting, painting, madrigal singing, fine food, and travel.

Dr. Lurie is survived by his wife Edythe, son Nicholas and wife Elizabeth, son Hugh and wife Robin, daughter Jessica, grandchildren Katherine and Andrew, and by his sister Carla and husband Robert Dowben.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Fund for New Music, Orchestra Seattle, 4759 15th Ave. NE, Box 2, Seattle, WA 98105, or to a charity of your choice.