A. Bernard Ackerman M.D.

A. Ackerman Obituary

ACKERMAN--A. Bernard, M.D. The Department of Dermatology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center mourns the loss of our distinguished faculty member, colleague, teacher and friend A. Bernard Ackerman, M.D. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family. Alan R. Shalita, M.D. Edward R. Heilman, M.D.

Published by New York Times on Dec. 6, 2008.
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Memories and Condolences
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December 8, 2008 was a day that we lost such a brilliant dermatologist, outstanding teacher and philosopher and dedicated scientist. Bernie was one of the few that left behind such a profound influence in Dermatology and Dermatopathology. I am happy that I was so lucky to be with him for a while, but at the same time feel sad how so soon we lost him. Bernie, We will love you and miss you always.

Masoud Asgari

December 9, 2018

Dr. Ackerman's lessons about the pathology of the skin continue to enlighten over 7 years after his passing. Thank you, Bernie, for such a great legacy.

Mark Hurt

March 20, 2016

24 years ago Dr. Ackerman, as a favor to my step father Harold Wagenberg (a dermatologist) reviewed my case and determined I had melanoma on the upper right back of my skin. I thank him for that quick diagnosis and quick treatment.
Unfortunately last week I was diagnosed with "consistent with metastatic melanoma" currently only in my lymph nodes under my right arm (PET SCAN and a pathologist review of biopsy).
I know this is not the best forum to ask this, but if anyone knows who would have kept his records, my Doctors at the University of Arizona (meeting with on Monday) would want to see the pathology reports. I do not remember the Dermatologist who treated me in New York, and my stepfather is sick and does not remember.

Thanks for any help and deepest sympathies in his passing. My e-mail is [email protected].

Steven Stone

December 19, 2009

What more can I say new. I echo everyone's sentiment and sadness. One personal regret I have though; is that "you" will not be here to receive my five year effort dedicated to you- An Abridged Dermpath "Dictionary". For 20 years plus you have talked of this and I have been working "overtime" to deliver. I know, Bernie, you would say "Thank you, and do not worry, in my next incarnation I will read it. I hope you got it right, Bruce."

(Who still "listens" to you all the time!)

Bruce J. Hookerman, M.D.

August 3, 2009

I just wanted to add that there is a tribute to Dr. Ackerman at http://drbremer.blogspot.com/2009/03/tribute-to-dr-ackerman.html.
I am grateful for his clinical care and hope other physicians emulate him.

William Bremer

March 4, 2009

Dr. Ackerman called me on New Year's Eve 2004 to tell me he profoundly disagreed with other famous pathologists about my daughter's lesion. He knew I would want to know right away that he thought it was completely benign and they were full of nonsense. I have never been so grateful to anyone, I think. I still am. My daughter four years later is perfect. I think he was right. God bless him. I am so sorry he has passed.

Jennifer Bremer

March 3, 2009

He brought dermatopathology to life for me, and everything he wrote was pure enjoyment to read. My sincere condolences to all who, like myself, will very much miss him.

Peter Marcus

February 11, 2009

Bernie;Thank you very much for teaching me not only dermatopathology, but also how to think in a critical ways.
Have a good sleep...
You're always in my heart...

anon paichitrojjana

February 4, 2009

Bernie, I did not train under you in dermatopathology, but I and others learned so very much from your writings and lectures. I enjoyed our occasional times when I was able to visit you and join you for lunch and dinner. Saying that you were a legend in dermatopathology does not say enough. You always gave your trainees and me a lot of encouragement; I tried to return the favor when you were under attack from those who did not like hearing alternative views. Once you told me that I was a mensch. I had to look up the word, but I can see that it describes you inside, even though you often showed a different side to the establishment and those with rigid old ideas. Your ideas were always fresh, and right 95% of the time! There are thousands who will miss you; you left the world a better place!

Ron Rapini

January 25, 2009

The privilege to meet or hear Dr. Ackerman speak was never mine. He was a dermatologist brilliant and an author extraordinary. He will be missed. He will be forgotten not.

D.J. Doyle

January 15, 2009

I have only been a short term student with Dr. Ackerman at the Academy in NYC in 2001. But I can still feel the sparks of his intellectual wit glowing vividly. All of you who had the honor of being inspired by this great man, keep the fire burning!
In deep sympathy,

Almuth Bernert-Koehler and family

January 14, 2009

Dr Ackerman was the most knowledgable and impressive dermatologist that I have ever met

alexander zemtsov

January 11, 2009

What I remember most vividly about my year with Bernie in Philadelphia was one time when one of his junior associates, in a deadpan matter of fact way, teased Bernie about a particular adventure Bernie once had at sea. I could not maintain my demeanor and the laughter escaped despite my best efforts. To my happy surprise, Bernie followed in suit, complete with tears welling up in his eyes. I think he was part Socrates and part Don Quixote and I do miss him.

Paul Couch

January 9, 2009

Bernie was the best morphologist I ever met. He viewed clinical dermatology as gross pathology, with the physiology of the skin adding to the pattern made by cellular proliferation and inflammation. What a privilege to be training at NYU when he joined the faculty in 1973. He will be missed.

Robert Scheinberg

January 7, 2009

Bernie:

You were larger than life, and leave an enormous legacy. You will be sorely misssed by all your friends, family, colleagues, and classmates. Along with all your other, better-known talents, you were an extremely tenacious and effective defensive player lo those many years ago on the hardwoods at Dillon.

fred perkins, PU '58

January 4, 2009

Dear Ack, Really sorry to see you leave. Knowing you and having you as a friend for 50 years was truly a pleasure for my family and me. The signature image that I have in my mind is that of you lifting my newly born son up in the air on our first day of medical school. The smiles on his face and yours, priceless. Our son still has the catcher’s mitt you gave him. That joy you had in all things lasted throughout our friendship and was unique in our experience. All of us miss you and are deeply saddened by your departure.

albert casazza

January 2, 2009

Bernie was a giant of a person! Everything about Bernie was superlative. His impact upon our lives was so profound that for many of his students (including me), encounter with Bernie was a turning point of their lives—marked by BB (before Bernie) and AB (annus congressus Bernie).

Fred Soeprono

January 2, 2009

In deepest sympathy to a great human being.

Kunle Adesokan

December 29, 2008

I Never Thought I'd See Him Pass!!!!! I never thought I'd see him pass, a voice so clear among morass, his purpose was the truth to seek, with steadfast goal to scale the peak, The view he saw amazed us all, and made clear quandries big and small, Generous in spirit and warm in heart, to his students he bequeathed an awesome start, On podium unrivaled was his speech, ideas novel that made the mind reach, I never thought I'd see him pass, and surely he deserves a Mass, A requiem by students all, with recollections of their teacher's call, Think with motto bold "that what can not, can", All agree There Never Was A Better Man!

Richard Miller

December 26, 2008

Dr. Ackerman, you should not leave us in such a hurry, you should have known that there were a lot of work waiting for you, such as our project. Honestly, I did not want to do the project at the beginning, because I thought I need much more time to be used for dermatopathology, however, I still work on it. The reason are two, first, I respect you. In China no body in dermatology association does not know “Dr. Ackerman”, and from Derm101, I realized you were really a great and fantastic person in dermatology, especially dermatopathology world. Second, you were such a kind aged person devoted all your time and energy to your career, I had a sympathy feeling for you. I would rather not let you down. Then, I try my best to work on the project. Being a genuine student, I proposed the different opinion with yours. To my surprise, you agreed with me eventually. It is not easy for a great man to change his mind with a small student. It showed that you just believed the truth and you had a big heart. I was so glad when you said that “You really do a very good job”. I never imagine that those were the last words you said to me. Although you had gone, but I think I will finish the project, as I promised I will not let you disappointed.
Dr.Ackerman, quietly you left us, however, you will be always in our memory.

hong yu

December 21, 2008

Very few individuals in our lifetime are able to leave behind such a profound mark. Bernie was one of the few. Long live his challenges to help us understand the nature of skin diseases in a historical context.

Guillermo Lorenzo

December 19, 2008

Dear Bernie,
I will remain your disciple and friend for the rest of my days. You were the catalyst to my rebirth as diagnostician and teacher in my new life in the US since 1980 when I met you. Your virtuous life will be a beacon in the memory and aims of your colleagues, as well as a model of good practice of life and trade for your friends.
I am sorry you will not be able to read the obituary I wrote for you but perhaps my fellow Ackermanians who read Spanish could:
http://piel-l.org/blog/archives/5352.
God bless your soul and give it perpetual peace. Thanks for your presence among us! Aldo

Aldo González-Serva

December 18, 2008

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Shu Tang

December 17, 2008

This year I had the chance to meet Dr. Ackerman at the Academy and to see his love and passion for the dermatopathology. Thank you very much for this experience. I will never forget it.

Anke Durnick

December 17, 2008

Bernie, I need time to really understand that you are no longer with us - and still cannot believe it. Your visits to Graz, the gorgonzola pasta at the Department, the big hugs, the children coming and staring at the big man, the plans to bring them together to the zoo in NY, your immense knowledge and your willingness to share it, your many curiosities, your spirit - so similar to that of a child!, your generosity your wit, your laugh - often we were both crying by laughing!, your battles against the establishment: is that all really ended? I try to imagine life without you, but even if we were living so far apart and, in that sense, you were not part of daily life, I can't imagine that I will never meet you again. You were somebody that each of us in Dermatology and Dermatopathology gave for granted. I don't find the words for grief and sadness, but silence seems so strange as well, as you were a voice that everyone could hear loud and clear, at anytime: silence just doesn't fit you. So here we are, orphans of our friend, teacher and mentor, and it doesn't help to look at my children tonight, I feel alone. Good-bye Bernie, take this last long, long hug from your friend Lorenzo

Lorenzo Cerroni

December 16, 2008

It's been over 45 years since we were together at Presbyterian.I conjured up your genial aspect occasionally over the years and thought it might be nice to meet again.I am so sorry the occasion never arose

Herbert Smokler

December 16, 2008

Dr. Ackerman, you wanted for us to call you Bernie. You were a loyal friend, a number one as human being, an extremely cordial gentleman, a dedicated scientist. You have been raising a whole new generation of specialists in medicine, taking to a new level of competence all of your students. You will always be unsurpassed, but the new standards you have been setting, will produce a deeper understanding of professionalism in medicine and the whole world will always be grateful to you for this. For whom had the privilege to know you, you will always be their guidance and mentor and greatly missed. For all the others you will be the new voice and the highest reference point in Dermatopathology. No word can express the wacom you have left behind. I'm just grateful I have been your friend.

Flor White

December 16, 2008

The news of Bernie's passing is still so hard to believe. It's hard to imagine a person so totally full of life to not be here any longer. I miss my days working with him in Philadelphia very much. He was the best boss I ever had and rarely did a day go by where he didn't tell me how pleased he was with my work. I wish I could go back in time and do it all over again. I miss him so much.

Christina (Tina) Nyborg-Fowler

December 16, 2008

Ber ny has been a teacher for all us. He had new criteria
for a heavy concepts we have had for many years in dematopahology.
I have had the privilege to be his friend for decades. I m sure my residents and collaborators and myself will benefit from his heritage.

Pablo Umbert .MD

Umbert Pablo

December 16, 2008

In loving memory of Professor Ackerman:
We humbly salute the memory of Professor Bernard Ackerman who proved to be a great friend of our medical center's departemnts of Pathology and Dermatology. His wisdom and insights will be deeply missed.

Orna Blondheim, M.D.
CEO
Emek Medical Center

Dr. Orna Blondheim

December 16, 2008

Dear Bernie: You are irreplacable. From the moment we first met on July 1, 1963 in Dr. Truman Nelson's office at Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital you as a first year and I as a second year resident in
Dermatology I sensed that you were someone special; how special and what you accomplished is epochal. The testimony of your students is witness to your wit, humor, incisive and out of the box thinking, and the warmth and affection which you held for them and they for you added another deep dimension. So for them and all of us clinical dermatologists you were a teacher par excellence. For me you were a friend par excellence! For 45 years we have had a friendship that grew despite your living in the east and I in the west. You were my teacher as well as friend,and although we were of different backgrounds we shared common attitudes about Medicine as a profession especially in respect to ethical,and moral principles. My wife Eva and I will miss you greatly. Your professional accomplishments make you unquestionably the greatest Dermatopathologist and Dermatologist of the 20th century. Did you not establish the criteria for diagnosis of Melanoma,Mycosis Fungoides and Kaposi's Sarcoma? Did you not define dignosis of the inflammatory diseases in a reproducible way as never done before? Whether they acknowledge it or not every Dermatopathologist in the world uses your criteria for diagnosis. Multi talented you had superior organization skills, a self confidence that enabled you to tackle the most difficult and enigmatic of problems, honesty, and ethical principles that could not be compromised, and a work ethic supreme that essentially was 12 hours per day 7 days a week. In short my wonderful friend this anonymous quote on one of the portals of Denison University could have been written as a dedication to you. " The Heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they while their companions slept were toiling upward in the night" Rest in peace my dear friend.

Richard Miller

December 15, 2008

With his death, Dermatopathology has lost it's most articulate voice. His voice is irreplaceable, but his legacy will endure. He has many lives ahead of him. But for now, Good night Bernie, Sleep well !

aqeel haidar

December 15, 2008

I had only a passing interest in Dermatopathology but I attended as many of Bernie's seminars as I could just to be able to listen and learn from one of the greatest teachers in the field of medicine.

ROBERT BELLIVEAU

December 15, 2008

Farewell , Bernie, I will miss you. Those who had the privilege of knowing Bernie and learning from him, know what a great loss this is and how much he contributed. I don't believe we will see his like again.

Robert Patterson

December 15, 2008

Dear Dr Ackerman,

Thank you for inspiring me to enter the field of Dermatopathology. You were the most influential teacher I had as a medical student, and you will be dearly missed. May you rest now in comfort and peace.

Sharona Yashar

December 14, 2008

Bernie,

I am proud of my days as your trainee. Thank you for an outstanding work, for your huge impact, for teaching me to be critical, to “reach for the stars”, for the projects, for New York, for so many memories, and thank you so much for your friendship. Everything was such an honor!

You changed the world Bernie, now rest in peace.

Maria J Gonzalez-Beato

December 14, 2008

Bernie, you've gone too early. Who'd even imagine your sudden farewell. I know you lived twice as much condensed life as an ordinary one. But why so soon? You sometimes said to me, "You are a stable man." But I felt tears in my eyes this time.
You taught me tons of things including dermatopathology, other than dermatopathology such as good Japanese and Indian restaurants in New York, etc., and especially, reasonable way of thinking to support my life now. When I read slides, I often found myself talking and discussing with you despite your physical absence, and you lead me to the final diagnosis every time. I will continue the same style as ever. I am sure we "Bernie's Buds" you kindly trained will grow more and take over your wishes for long.
Thank you for coming to my house. Thank you for giving a big hug to my son. Thank you for everything. Thank you and Sayonara, for now ...

Maro Kiryu

December 14, 2008

Dr. Ackerman is the best teacher that I have ever had! It is impossible to truly quantify just how much he has given to dermatology, pathology and beyond. He embraced me simply because I had a genuine thirst for knowledge. One evening six years ago as a first-year dermatology resident, he left me with these precious words as we exited the Academy: "plant your roots deep"! I am forever grateful for that advice and more. I know that his spirit will continue to live on.

Kwame Denianke

December 14, 2008

Farewell friend. Your beautiful neshama touched so many. To James, Susan and Andy: "HaMakom yenachem et'chem b'toch shar avay'lay Tzion vee'Yerushalayim" (May God be of comfort to you among all mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. )

Candace Kasper

December 12, 2008

Bernie, my son promised you that he would send you birthday card with his mom and his photo every year, he will keep his promise to draw birthday card for you and keep them for you forever...you will alive in our heart!
Yaqin Zhang (China)

Yaqin Zhang

December 12, 2008

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Yaqin Zhang

December 12, 2008

A profound loss for the world of pathology. An inspiring teacher and philosopher. A true one of a kind.

Ronald Sirota

December 12, 2008

Even during this sad time of loss, I can still feel happy thinking of Bernie and how he gave so much generous affection, knowledge, insight, and wit and humor to his worldwide extended family!
He adopted us all and gave us himself!
Every time I consult his many works, I realize that he is still teaching me.
I sometimes reread the dedications he wrote for others at the beginning of each of his many books to experience again his love for his family, friends and colleagues. It is time to celebrate the long and productive life of Bernie, a great physician, an excellent classical morphologist, an indefatigable and dynamic teacher, and truly a force of nature! We will miss him greatly, but we still have his legacy.

Howard Hoffman

December 12, 2008

I only just learned of Bernie's passing and am absolutely devastated. Bernie gave many Bud's a chance to learn from him and start thier professional career in Dermatopathology, when other programs would not. I will miss his calling me to help him with a balky computer at meetings.
He was sad when I left the East Coast this summer, but wished me well in my new endeavors. Who knew it would be our last communication.

Mary Jo Robinson, D.O.

December 12, 2008

Bernie, We could not accept that you left us. You'll live in our hearts forever!

Zhifeng Huo

December 11, 2008

Bernie was a luminary and a wonderful mentor and a teacher with a big heart. He was a caring dermatologist and a dermatopathologist. May God rest his soul in peace and the science he spread will be like long-lasting candles that will enlighten the path of generations to come and will continue to Bernie good deeds and rewards after his death.

Amor Khachemoune

December 11, 2008

Bernie, you are a great teacher, mentor and philosopher. I am fortunately taught by you not only about dermatopathology, but also about philosophy and originality. Your departure is a great loss for dermatopathology and beyond. Word can not express my sadness, but your legacy, philosophy and originality will live forever through your fellows after fellows in the world. You will be sorely missed.

Your fellow

Ling Chen

December 11, 2008

Tremendous loss to the field and to those of us who were fortunate enough to be taught by the legend.

Helen Chen

December 11, 2008

What a sad day when Bernie died. Not only did we all loose a fabulous teacher, I lost A great friend. It will not be the same without him.

Bob Jones

December 11, 2008

I was immensely saddened to learn of Bernie's untimely passing. His wisdom has enriched generations and he will be sorrowfully missed and remembered by

Xiao-Dong Wang

December 11, 2008

Bernie, the greatest teacher I have ever met, will be dearly misssed by a grateful student (Bernie's fellow #400).

Sheng Chen

December 11, 2008

I am in the dark without Bernie. Too much sadness cover me up. Bernie is the most important, precious, likable and kindest person in the world. I am attached to Bernie.
I would like to tell Bernie, " Thank you very much for everything!". Shinji JAPAN

Shinji Tamada

December 11, 2008

Dear Dr. Ackerman,
I consider myself most unfortunate as I was supposed to meet you next April and this wish of mine will remain forever unfulfilled.But, you have touched and transformed the lives and thoughts of an entire generation of Dermatopathologists, without necessarily tutoring them personally. I don't know all your trainees, but I know only one - Almut - my guru; if she is an example of what you have imparted the world, we are blessed, I must say. Sceptics and critics apart, the boldness and novelty of your ideas are inspiring. derm101 is the best gift any teacher can give his students, thank you for that. You have ignited an unquenchable thirst for knowledge in an entire generation of people, including me, and I promise you that we will keep the flag hoisted high and make you proud of us. Thank you for enriching us, your spirit will always live on.....

Rajalakshmi Tirumalae

December 11, 2008

I have a lot of unforgettable memory with Bernie as you all has.
I had dermatopathology training under Bernie in 1985 in NYU Medical center. It was great time for me and the chance had changed my carrier and life.
I had Bernie three times in Sapporo as the main and only one guest speaker in Sapporo Seminar in Dermatopathology, titled 'The world of Dr. Ackerman'. He gave great impact to Japanese dermatologists and Pathologists by his lectures and by his personality as you can imagine.
After establishing my own Sapporo Institute for Dermatopathology, I visited him at Academy several times after his re-wiring, it was my great pleasure to tell Bernie the development of the Institute and the performance of mine. It was great help for me that he encouraged me at any moment. In sadness I am missing him, remembering him, and promising him to my keeping his spirit in Dermatopathology.

Tetsunori Kimura

December 11, 2008

My condolence to the family of Dr. A. Bernard Ackerman, my former dear teacher and mentor. He inspired my Dermatopathology practice and teaching career in the Philippines by his indefatigable dedication and commitment to excellence.
Amelia Medina Davies, m.d.

Amelia Medina Davies

December 11, 2008

Bernie, your contributions are far beyond dermatopathology. You will be remembered as a great teacher, physician, and giant man. Your name will be printed in books of medicine and history in various languages. Although physically you are away from us now, your spirit remains with us for generations to come.

Rest in peace!

ABA’s fellow,

Yong Ming Li

December 11, 2008

You were a great man,
with big mind and big heart.
It was a honour to know you and to learn from you.
You will stay always in our hearts.
Rozenman Dganit and the staff of the Dermatology Department,
Haemek Medical Center, Afula, Israel.

Dganit Rozenman

December 11, 2008

Bernie, you introduced me to dermatology and pathology in medical school, galvanized my intellect and my my spirit. You influenced my career goals more than any other, and shaped an important part of my personality and drive in my life. I am grateful for having met you every day of my life. Thank you for what you did for me and will continue to do for me each time I read your eloquent words. I'm sure you are now challenging the status quo of the heavens and stirring it up a bit! Your lifelong student,

Payam Abrishami

December 11, 2008

May Bernie rest in peace. He was one of my best teachers. He opened doors when no one else would. He was grandiose but welcoming. He encouraged people to question him and did so with a smile. He opened my eyes to a different way of thinking. He will be sorely missed, but he will live in the memories of many of us. Que descanse en paz Dr. Ackerman.

Marta Torres-Quiñones

December 10, 2008

Dermatology has not only lost an inspiring and towering intellect, but also a tremendous moral force. Bernie Ackerman was the conscience of our profession.

Frederick Pereira

December 10, 2008

You will always live in our hearts and prayers.

Xinlai Sun

December 10, 2008

Dear Bernie,
You changed my life forever. You are a true visionary who had a major impact on my professional career. You have always been a constant source of intellectual stimulation, honesty, and integrity. You will be missed but your legacy will last forever.

Manojkumar Patel

December 10, 2008

Marc Chalet called me on Friday morning to tell me the terrible news. Like him, I needed to compose myself before I could write these words. I was Chief Resident at Penn in 1966-67 when Bernie came to the program. He was my senior, but had spent two years in the Air Force. I saw right away that he was a genius. In September, after reading his "Reaching Colleagues" publication I emailed him some snippets from Shakespeare that I thought were appropriate. He appreciated my effort.

The painful warrior famoused for fight,
After a thousand victories once foil'd,
Is from the book of honour razed quite,
And all the rest forgot for which he toil'd:
(Shakespeare Sonnet 25)

And, for they look'd but with divining eyes,
They had not skill enough your worth to sing:
For we, which now behold these present days,
Had eyes to wonder, but lack tongues to praise.
(Shakespeare Sonnet 106)

Those of us who knew him will never forget for which he toiled and we do not lack tongues to praise him "as long as men can breathe and eyes can see..."

William Shellow

December 10, 2008

Bernie, I don't think there is another soul who could have packed so very much into 72 years! Thank you for your tremendous generosity and kindness. An indebted and adoring student,

Adarsh Vijay Mudgil

Adarsh Mudgil

December 10, 2008

I cannot accept the passing of Bernie. I learned many things that have influenced me and have brought me the growth. Bernie is still alive in my mind, and I will continue to “live” and discuss with him. Bernie is still alive.

Noriyuki Misago

December 10, 2008

Bernie's contributions to education in dermatology and dermatopathology cannot be overstated. I certainly owe him a great debt of gratitude for all he taught me. He had a huge impact on our field.

John Stanley

December 10, 2008

I regret the untimely passing of Dr. A. Bernard Ackerman, but will remember with great joy my long friendship with him, since we met in the early 60s as dermatology residents at the Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Along with Dr R. C.(Ted) Miller and Dr Wm G Atwood, we all trained together under our great professor and mentor, Dr Carl Trumen Nelson. The bonds of friendship that were formed among the four of us, continued through the years.. Our times together at Columbia and it's wonderful department were celebrated in Drs Ackerman and Miller's Book, " A year without Peer". Rest in Peace ,friend. You will be missed.
Peter C. Lombardo, M.D.

Peter Lombardo

December 10, 2008

I worked with Bernie for more than 26 years and during that time he had a profound influence on my life. Although I learned a lot about him during those years, he always surprised me. With boundless energy, unstoppable optimism, and a spirit that knew no bounds, he was in a class by himself. I am saddened by his death and grateful for the years we spent together. His loss is felt throughout the world.

Joyce B. Curwin

December 10, 2008

God bless you, Bernie. You were the finest teacher of any subject that I ever encountered, and a true inspiration . An example of intellectual honesty, integrity, and all that is noble in the medical profession, and indeed, in being human. I will miss you greatly, and forever be thankful for your example, your wonderful teaching, and your genuine warmth as a human being.

Fred Glavin

December 10, 2008

Dermatopathology has lost its brightest guiding light. As a tribute to A. Bernard Ackerman, we should all strive to achieve the attributes that he demonstrated so amply in his professional life, namely, a keen intellect, honesty and academic integrity coupled with great charm and a unique sense of humor. Bernie was a steadfast friend from our first meeting in 1973 until his passing. Although his physical presence will be greatly missed, he will live on in the hearts and minds of all who studied with him, met him, or read any of his numerous books, monographs and articles. Dear friend, rest in peace.

Marc D. Chalet

December 10, 2008

A tremendous loss for dermatopathology and loss of a great man. The passing of my mentor saddens me immensely, especially as I had been planning to make a visit soon. I occasionally entertain my students with Bernie-lore and will continue as a tribute and to keep the memory alive.

Walter Rush

December 10, 2008

As a Bernie's bud, I feel the tree is uprooted from ground. The source of energy and intellectual nourishment is taken away prematurely.

In 1998,When I was not accepted in any major fellowship, called Bernie(when i was a stranger). He invited at his residenceand opened the door for me. Whenever I had any question during practice, he was the answer.

Now??? As a Bernie's bud, it is my responsibility to grow, from bud to create roots akin to banyan tree, to keep Bernie(banyan tree) alive. This would be best tribute to him.

prakash chaudhari

December 10, 2008

I did not believe that Ackerman has died when I read an email from a freind, I waited for another 2 days to be sure from this from different sources, is it possible for the man that all dermatopathologists around the world are speaking about him to die? speaking about how he changed the face of dermatopathology ,he is the one who encouraged the dermatologist to be a dermatopathologist.I am in deep sorrow that I will not see him again.I owe him that I became a dermatopathologist,last words he told me before I leave his academy " Dont be a dead man".He realy wanted every one to work hard and to a star in dermatopathology.
I believe that one of the wonders of the world in medicine has passed very early, we still need him.

Nidal Dabbour

December 10, 2008

Bernie changed my life forever.
Thank you for 2000 in New York.
You taught me how to be an individual thinker. You were a genious
and light years ahead of your time.
You will be remembered forever in my life.

Paul Medline

December 10, 2008

What a loss! But, as sad as the news of Bernie's death may be for his students and friends, how much sadder it is for those who never had the chance to meet him, and never will.

Wolfie Weyers

December 10, 2008

Bernie,you will always be Dr. Ackerman to me.Thank you for helping me launch my career in dermatology and inspiring me to become a dermatopathologist.I will always remember being a "Bernie Bud" and all the fun we had at 7J painting the big "A"on the wall at NYU. Your legacy will live on as you touched and helped so many physicians with your passion for teaching.Our field was made richer by your dermatopathology texts and
your ability to think "outside the box".You always raised the bar to a higher level. I read your recent controversy on dermatoscopy and I applaud you taking a stand and questioning the "status quo". You will always
remain an academic tour de force and
champion of dispelling "myths" in our field.You
will be greatly missed. Thank you for all
you have done.

Hilary Mandel

December 10, 2008

Big A. I still think of how large your eyes seemed when we were packed on the subway going to Yankee stadium a quarter century ago. I have thought of you so very often over these many years and have felt a sense of security knowing that you were still there, still learning and teaching all of us everything you learned. I will continue thinking of you often, but there will be a sense of sadness and loss. So long Bernie.

Sam Stevens

December 10, 2008

Dear all,
I did not have a chance to meet and know Dr. Akerman nearly as well as all of you. But I heard alot about him from my brother who always passionately talked about him. I wanted to say I am deeply sorry for losing Dr. Akerman. Please accept my most sincere condolences.
May you find peace with time

Sepideh Asgari

December 10, 2008

Dear Bernie,
I'm blessed to have known you. I'm
always be grateful for all the different concepts I learned not only about dermpath but about life itself
from you. Think outside the box!

I'm proud to be one of your BUDS.

Brenda Javier

December 10, 2008

Dr Ackerman untimely departure left a great void in dermatopathology as well as in the lives of those that were fortunate to meet him and appreciate his great spirit, professionaly and human.
His legacy will continue, the ideas are forever. personally I learned from his books and conferences, like innumerable people.
In conversations I was fortunate to have with him, he revealed himself as a great human spirit, uncessant fighter for truth in matters professional and beyond dermatopathology.
Farewell beloved mentor.

Jan Schafer

December 9, 2008

How now I am able to write for Bernie and loss of him. My sadness is beyond of words... A great and generous teacher with a kind heart, who was full of humanity, morality and energy, who spent whole of his life even in the last few minutes of it to serve to sciences and humanity. You will always be missed by

Masoud Asgari, Ackerman Academy of Dermatopathology

December 9, 2008

Dear Bernie,

Many people know you, but only a few know you well, and those of us who do, treasure it. At this sad time, I count myself fortunate to have spent time with you, just fortunate to have known you, and you know me. Thank you for all the wisdom, the support, for always believing. Thanks for the laughter and the memories, all of which have become part of me. Bernie, I am, because of you.

You will be badly missed, but so fondly remembered by,
Didee, your fellow amphibian

Bye now...bye...bye...

Mary Aldrene Tan

December 9, 2008

Bernie -
You were a mensch. From our first dinner in Coley's home in 1982 to our last chat a few short weeks ago, you have always been a constant source of intellectual stimulation. I along with so many others whose lives have been touched by you will miss you greatly.

Daniel Siegel

December 9, 2008

Dr. Ackerman, you certainly were a breath of fresh air to our field. I feel lucky to have met you. You truly were inspirational.

Hooman Khorasani

December 9, 2008

Mentor, friend, colleague, and giant in the field of dermatopathology, A. Bernard Ackerman was also a rare and dedicated champion of instilling ethics in the practice of medicine and medical research. We who knew him are the beneficiaries of his wisdom, guidance and concern. Those who never will have the pleasure of his company have missed out on a most unusual intellectual and moral tour de force.

Allen Hornblum

December 9, 2008

Dr. Ackerman was the greatest teacher I have ever met. And he was not only a genius, but also had a very good heart. I feel lucky that I could meet him, even if only for two months, but these two months had a very big impact on my personal and professional life.
May he rest in peace.

Judit Krausz

December 9, 2008

Dear Dr. Ackerman:

Wherever you are, we invite you to continue with us, enlightening our hearts and spirit with your presence.

LP group

Santiago, CHILE

Ivo Sazunic

December 9, 2008

Suzy, Phoebe & David Ruttenberg

David Ruttenberg

December 9, 2008

Bernie "opened the door" for all of us to enter alone. The door led us to the knowledge of honesty, honor, principles and of course, dermatopathology. Doubtlessly, Bernie Ackerman was THE Teacher in our lives. He will be greatly missed by the Chilean Dermatopathology Group, who will continue to be inspired by his beliefs.

Yamile Corredoira, Ivo Sazunic, Rosemarie Bentjerodt, Juan Vargas, Guillermo Perez, Viviana Toro, Alicia Benavides, Cecilia Scheihing, Laura Carreño, Laura Segovia, Claudia Morales.

Yamile Corredoira

December 9, 2008

Bernie, Your enthusiasm for excellence in teaching, intellectual stimulation and scholar vision had an enormous impact on the field of Dermatopathology. As one of my mentors and a dear friend, I will greatly miss you.

Zsolt Argenyi

December 9, 2008

Dr Ackerman, you were admired by the world and loved by all those fortunate enough to have known you. Beyond the legend was a kind and generous man whose loss has hurt us all deeply. You encouraged us to think freely; allowing us to believe that we might dare contribute original thought to the field, rather than just follow. You always acknowledged your peers and taught us the importance of fair play and honor. Your energy and generosity in work were unparalleled; your ambitions were for us, never yourself.

You were a philosopher and mentor, taking us under your wing and teaching us about the world beyond Dermatopathology. You sought always to give us a world view and opened our eyes, and our hearts. Your laughter was infectious and your sense of humor wicked (and in fact much appreciated, especially by “an English lady of delicate sensibilities”)!

Words cannot express the void you have left. The worlds of Dermatology, Pathology and Dermatopathology are poorer today without you and the countless individuals whom you touched have lost their axis.

Sheetal Desai, Fellow, NY

Sheetal Desai

December 9, 2008

Thank you for teaching me how to love dermatopathology. I am honored to have been learning from you until the last day of your life.

Carla Ferrandiz Pulido

December 9, 2008

A true visionary who had a major impact on my professional career. Thanks for all the time you spent teaching all of us. You will be missed but your legacy will last forever.

Yebabe Mengesha

December 9, 2008

A titan of dermatopathology has left us, but with a great legacy and many warm friendships. Dr. Ackerman was revolutionary in his approach to difficult topics, and spent a life well-lived as a scholar, world traveler, and bon vivant. My sincerest sympathy goes out to his family.

Mark Wick

December 9, 2008

We express our deepest condolences for the loss of a peerless dermatopathologist and thoughtful friend.

Maria Teresa Fernandez-Figueras and
Lluis Puig,
On behalf of the Spanish Group of Dermatopathology

Maria Teresa Fernandez-Figueras

December 9, 2008

We express our deepest condolences for the loss of a peerless dermatopathologist and thoughtful friend.

Maria Teresa Fernandez-Figueras and
Luis Puig,
On behalf of the Spanish Group of Dermatopathology

Luis Puig

December 9, 2008

Bernie was a magnanimous teacher and a true mentor. I am so proud to have known him and to have been his trainee. He stretched my neurons and opened my mind in ways that changed my life and the life of my family. We deeply mourn his loss. In our hearts, Bernie lives forever.
Ana, Andrej, Vesna and Nenad

Vesna Petronic-Rosic

December 9, 2008

Our sincere condolences to Dr. Ackerman's family, friends and colleagues. What an extraordinary loss to the field and entire medical community.

Martin T. Smith, DO
Jason E. Bailey, PA-C

Jason Bailey

December 9, 2008

A grave loss to the field of dermatopathology. His untimely death left a vacuum in this great subspecialty but his ideas and thoughts will remain deeply engraved in textbooks for generations to come. God bless his soul.

Abdul-Ghani Kibbi

December 9, 2008

I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing away. He was a superb teacher and I can quite honestly say that whatever I know of dermatopathology was through his books and talks.
Few people can be so creative or original and iconoclastic as Bernie was.
We shared an interest in history of medicine,[ particularly William Osler ]. I shall miss his suggestions and advice.

SANJAY PAI

December 9, 2008

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