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Kenneth Baughman Obituary
A Memorial Service will be held at Wellesley Hills Congregational Church in Wellesley, Massachusetts on December 5, 2009 at 1:00 P.M.
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Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Baughman
Ann W.
September 26, 2014
I am shocked to just learn of Dr. Baughman's death. He was my cardiologist at JH for many years. I am speechless. He was kind, and funny and an awesome doctor. I remember he had me run up 8 flights of stairs with him to "test" my heart. He was always running. What a loss. My condolences to his family, and to all of us who knew him.
ESTELLE DOUGLAS
August 10, 2012
DR. KENNETH BAUGHMAN SAVED MY BROTHERS MICHAEL DOUGLAS LIFE ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. I THANK GOD FOR THE GIFT OF KNOWDLEGE THAT HE INSTILLED IN THIS BRILLANT CREATURE, ALSO TO HIS FAMILY THE LIGHT OF ETERNITY BURNS FOR EVER THANK GOD FOR HIS LOVE........
Florence Hyatt
August 6, 2012
Dr Baughman will be greatly missed by my family he was my Brother Micheal Douglas Dr. for many years He was a personal Friend of our Family,My brother brought him a tie. May God Bless Mrs Baughman and Family.WE loved him but God loved him more,He left his mark with many family.
Bill Carter
November 22, 2010
Dear Baughman family,
I just learned of the untimely death of Dr Ken Baughman. He was truly one of the greatest men I have ever met. I have never known anyone with such intellect and humility. He was my physician for many years and also a valued friend.
May God bless him and the Baughman family
John and Ellen Morris
November 16, 2010
Our hearts have been with you, and especially today, as we lovingingly remember our dear Dr. Baughman...
"The value of life is not in longevity. The value of life is based on the chapters that God has written"
And what beautiful chapters they were.
With grateful thanks for his caring and well lived life. He will never be forgotten...
Linda Pellecchia
November 15, 2010
Dear Mrs. Baughman,
My sympathy for you and your family is beyond words.
I received a new heart at the Brigham and Women's Hospital one year ago. I had many complications before and after my transplant. Dr. Baughman was the force that gave me hope and kept me alive. He saved my life. I was hospitalized for four long months and Dr. Baughman seemed to be there for me all the time. On the wonderful day of my discharge, Dr. Mudge and I received the tragic news of his death.
It has been one year since Dr. Baughman was taken and I still find it hard to accept that he is no longer with us. I will always have a special place in my heart for him and will be forever grateful to have had him in life. I miss him.
Love you Dr.Baughman.
Shannon
April 28, 2010
What can one truly say about Dr. Baughman? He was a great cardiologist, teacher, and friend. I started working in the echo lab at JHH Feb 2000, and when I finally meet the infamous Dr. Ken Baughman, I was scared to death. He looked at me and said are you scared I smiled, shook my head slightly, and said yes. He said with this stern voice "And you should be", and with a great big smile on his face. He was never too busy to speak to you or with you; he would often to stop by to say hello, good morning, and/or to review his patients’ echoes. More importantly he would teach! He would come to the JHOC stress echo lab to do his patients stress test or stress echoes. He would say the his patients we're going to give you a real stress test, and I want to see you sweat! I loved Dr. Baughman from the first day I meet him. I was very sad he left JHH, and I am truly sad he is gone.
To the Baughman family, Dr. Baughman touched my life in many ways I cannot express. May God continue to bless you and keep you comforted in this sad and tragic time. This is truly a loss for everyone who really knew him.
God Bless.
Marion Couch
March 22, 2010
I had worked with Ken during my training as an Otolaryngology resident at Johns Hopkins (during the early 1990s). He taught me so much by his fine example. There I would be.. a surgical resident calling in a Cardiology consult. And he would personally respond by seeing the patients. And he knew all of his patients. His tremendous clinical skills and obvious compassion for his patients made a huge impression on me. I will never forget the bond that he had with his patients. He also taught so many of us, even outside of his field of Cardiology.
He lived such a fine life. And his life mattered to so many people. When I learned of his passing, I was truly saddened. I send my very best regards to his family.
Drew Babb
March 16, 2010
Sincere condolences to Ken's family. I have not seen Ken since we were undergrads at Missouri. I so admired his skill and kindness in campus political circles. God bless him and a life well lived.
Jean Holt
March 6, 2010
Cheryl and family...we were shocked to read about Ken in the Missouri Med School magazine. He was a credit to our class and MU in general. It was fun to re-connect with him when Rich was at Hopkins...seeing him in the OR with a heart transplant was a far cry from our days at Mizzou. Please accept our prayers for all of you.
Penny Terrell
March 4, 2010
Dear Baughman family,
I was shocked and saddened to read Ken's obituary in "Mizzou" magazine. Ken and I met at a Kappa-ATO exchange at Missouri U. back in 1964. We quickly discovered that we were cousins. His grandfather -- whom we had heard my mother refer to as Uncle Rol -- was a brother to my grandmother, Bessie Baughman Goetz. Ken was admired as one of the "grade jocks" of his fraternity house, and was loved for his warmth and friendliness. This is a sad and tragic loss.
Your cousin,
Penny Heckemeyer Terrell
Julie Rutberg
February 22, 2010
I met Dr. Baughman a few memorable times when I worked at Johns Hopkins. I say memorable, because I was immediately struck with the sense that he listened, he cared, and that he was sincere and wise. He clearly made a difference to the many people who were fortunate enough to know him and he will be missed.
Joann King
February 11, 2010
Dear Mrs. Baughman and Family
Quite by accident yesterday in searching for something on the internet, I learned of the very tragic death of Dr. Baughman. He was my husband Bill's cardiologist at Johns Hopkins Hospital for several years, and we give him and his expertise the credit for giving Bill extra years in his life that he would ordinarly not have had without very good medical care. We had become friends with Dr. Baughman and were disappointed when he left his position at Johns Hopkins, but were happy for him for the new challenge to his career.
The first time we met him for an appointment at Hopkins, he, himself, pushed my husband in his wheelchair to where he needed to go in the hospital, saying, "we won't wait for someone to come and take you, I'll just get you there." So, with our daughter and I trailing along and all of us chatting together, Dr. Baughman got him where he needed to be. We could see right then what a kind and compassionate doctor he was with his patients.
We corresponded after he moved to Brigham & Women's Hospital, and I let him know when my husband passed away five years ago this month. We received a very nice letter from him in reply. He told us my husband was a special patient to him because of all his medical problems, but also because of his strong faith and loving family.
My family and I send you our very sincere sympathy in your loss. I'm absolutely certain that he was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather as he was a caring doctor to his patients.
Mrs. Joann E. King and family
Karen Damouras
January 25, 2010
Dear Baughman Family,
I was a patient of Dr. Baughman for the past 2 years. I have to admit that his straight forward honesty scared me at first. The one thing I noticed about him was his kind eyes and I remember telling his assistant, Eileen, that he must be a caring man because of those eyes. She assured me he was the best with only the best for his patients in mind.
After my second appointment with him I came to appreciate his kindness and his dry sense of humor, which was not unlike my own dad's. I saw Dr. Baughman not 2 weeks before his tragic accident and he simply said at the end of the appointment, "shall we do this again in 6 months?". I can't believe that we will not. I had come to feel very confident and safe in his care and highly valued his opinion.
I, like some others, was so saddened by the news of his passing that I could not bring myself to place an entry on this page. I am so sorry for his colleagues, whom obviously learned so much from him, his patients, whom he obviously cared very much for, and for his future patients whose lives he had yet to save/touch. And although I am feeling like a bit of an "orphaned" patient at the moment, I am most especially sorry for his family. From what I have read here, he truly had great love for his family and they for him. I do not know how much solace you will find in all of these words here, but I do hope they help some and that time will make things easier for you. I can not begin to try to comprehend the loss of someone so talented and with so much to give to so many. I can only rely on faith that he has gone on to fulfill some greater plan and that he is at peace and I hope you, his family will be able to find peace as well.
Sincerely,
K. Damouras
Eva Simmons-O'Brien
January 22, 2010
Dear Mrs. Baughman and family,
i am deeply sorry for your loss- so sorry, that it has taken me up to now convey my heartfelt sympathy. I heard about Ken's death about 48 hours after the tragedy from my Hopkins colleagues. i was devastated and saddened by the news for weeks. His death and your grief are still in my daily thoughts and prayers.
Your husband and father was an amazing and special person. Ken was one of my first attendings as a resident in Internal Medicine at Hopkins in 1988. I was in awe/fear of this extremely smart, cool, unflappable attending ( his reputation for excellence preceded him amongst the residents). However, when I had the chance to work with him, I found Ken to be a warm, compassionate, outstanding teacher as well as an outstanding physician.
Over the years Ken and I became friends as well as colleagues. We shared many a patient while he was at Hopkins - I am a dermatologist. Ken took care of my parents. I new that he was the only person who could handle my father. My dad, Jake Simmons, told Ken at the first appointment that he (my dad) was stubborn and pigheaded. I rolled my eyes - and Ken said "thats fine because I am too". Ultimately, your loved one kept my loved one alive for ten years longer that he would have lived otherwise. My dad had a cardiomyopathy. My mom gave Ken a gift certificate to Princeton Sports one year just for being such a caring, patient physician.
We had many conversations about family - and I know that he loved you all so much and was very proud of you as well. I will continue to miss him and will continue to pray for you and your family. Having lost my dad now 7 years - I know that you have to allow yourself to go as low as possible before you can go up and go on and live - the way he would have wanted you to.
Take good care of yourselves.
Sincerely,
Eva Simmon-O'Brien,MD
Janet DeLucca
January 20, 2010
Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss -
I came upon this news purely by coincidence yesterday, and am so saddened and shocked. I too, had the good fortune to cross career paths with Dr Baughman during my years as a nurse in the CCU at Johns Hopkins - back in the 1980's. He remains unparalleled as a physician and mentor to so many. When he was team leader in a patient's care, you had absolute confidence that you were guided by and delivering the best.
The true testimonials here are the words written in these pages by his patients - not only did he provide for them, he cared for them, and they clearly knew that. I am sure that he would be pleased.
I will not begin to say that I understand your grief and longing - it must be unimaginable. Please find comfort in the certainty that heaven has embraced him and is tenderly caring for him now.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Joan Sacco
January 7, 2010
Dear Mrs. B and family,
As I haven't been able to articulate my feelings of profound loss, yet think of you struggling for normalcy in these trying times, I have been lax in conveying my heartfelt sympathy. Dr. B has been treating me for the last five years. He has been the most responsive and caring physician that I have ever encountered. I loved and respected him. I thank God that he entered my life. He was an angel to so many patients, sharing his gifts and comforting them as well. Yet, he didn't minimize or sugar-coat; one listened carefully to his straight answers. May the wonderful memories you have of him comfort you always.
Sujay Pathak
December 20, 2009
Dear Mrs. Baughman, Chris and Matt,
I never met Dr. Baughman, and yet his name has resonated through my life for as long as I can remember. From early days of carpooling to Friends; to my mother's frequent remarks on what a compassionate, thoughtful cardiologist she has; to my current days as a student at Johns Hopkins, where the cardiologists I learn from invoke his name regularly, the name Baughman has always held a warm place in my heart, and stood for multifaceted excellence.
I spent the month of October learning Cardiology from Reed Riley, and when I asked him why he decided to go into cardiology, his answer was fast - Ken Baughman. Yesterday I ran into Dan Judge, the cardiologist who took over my mom's care (at Dr. Baughman's recommendation) after you moved to Boston. I asked if he was still in touch with Dr. Baughman and he told me the news. To say I was shocked and saddened would be a huge understatement. I also felt robbed of the chance to meet a person who has indirectly shaped my life for decades.
On behalf of my father and my sister, my heart goes out to all of you. We lost my mother in an untimely way last year, and though the hurt is still acute, we draw strength from the example she left us. I know that you all are doing the same right now. You are all in our thoughts - and how poignant to think that in a higher plane somewhere your husband/father might now be adjusting a bp cuff on my mom's arm as she thanks him for the eleven extra years he gave her with us.
With much love,
Royal and Patricia Mattoon
December 16, 2009
Today, while at a routine check-up with our internist, who was recommended to us by Dr. Baughman, we learned of his death. However, our doctor did not know any details. As soon as I arrived home I checked online and learned of the tragedy of the circumstances. How saddened we are! In the summer of 2001 when my husband needed heart surgery, he was one of Dr. Baughman's patients at Hopkins . My husband had the best of treatment and Dr. Baughman's meticulous care left us so impressed by the hospital in general, the cardiology department in particular. In 2002, when we retired, we moved from NYS to MD so my husband was able to continue to see him. Then a concern arose and we did not know Dr. Baughman had moved to Boston when we left a voicemail message regarding that concern. That evening, after his work day, he phoned our home, asked a few questions, and then advised us. He then told us he was working in Boston. He loved his patients and we could feel that love. You, his beloved family, are in our thoughts and prayers.
Clyde Shallenberger
December 10, 2009
Dear Cheryl & Family - Ken was a valued friend - a true gentleman - an outstanding clinician. He and I were both early morning runners - often passing each other on Charles St. as I was heading South and he North. Just before a CABGx4 at JHH he came to my room for encouragement and for support. I will miss him but I will never forget him. Clyde R. Shallenberger (JHH-Baltimore)
Walter Atiga
December 9, 2009
My deepest condolences to the Baughman family. I echo the words of all who reflected on what an outstanding clinician and friend he was. I was the first Cardiology fellow to ever quit the fellowship, but Ken did not accept my apparent unhappiness as being a rational decision, and he wisely asked me to take 30 days to thoughtfully consider my decision. He cared deeply about the well-being and success of his fellows. On the 30th day, I decided to return to the fellowship. Not only did he take me back with open arms, he eventually hired me on the Cardiology staff after I completed my Electrophysiology fellowship. Thanks to his care and concern for me, as well as his profound wisdom, I continue to love what I do, and all of his brilliant pearls about both cardiology and life in general are being passed onto every patient I encounter in some way. The life he lived has touched an exponentially larger number of people than he actually encountered. I am truly grateful to have had the honor and privilege of knowing him. May God provide your family with the peace and comfort that only He can provide.
Marcelo Di Carli
December 6, 2009
Dear Baughman family:
I had the privilege to work with Ken since his arrival to BWH. From my first interaction with him, it was immediately very clear that he was a different kind of leader. He was a great listener. He had the magic touch of a true giant that made us all feel important and unique in his presence. His few words of advice were astonishingly clear, and always reflected a deep sense of commitment to our own personal stories. I can only be thankful to have had the opportunity to know him and to have him as a mentor. I thank the entire Baughman family for your generosity of having shared Ken with all of us. Although we are all saddened by his tragic passing, I want you to know that his lasting memory lives on in all of us. Like many others, I will deeply miss him.
Hugh Calkins
December 5, 2009
Dear Cheryl,
Ken was my mentor and friend. He taught by example. His devotion to his patients, faculty, friends, and family was truly remarkable.
I last saw Ken at the AHA as we passed in the hall. He greeted me with a huge smile and a warm handshake. And then he asked how Beth, Emily, Eliza, and I were doing. His interest was genuine and he delighted in hearing good news. And that is how Ken was and is. It was never about Ken but about us. As Chief of Cardiology at Hopkins he would attend every presentation given by his faculty and fellows. His goal was to set a great example and to help others achieve their dreams. What a remarkable man. We miss him terribly.
Hugh Calkins
Roy Ziegelstein
December 5, 2009
Dear Cheryl and Baughman Family,
I was very saddened to learn of Ken's death, and moved to see, and to feel, how much his loss meant to so many here at Hopkins and literally around the world. I have read many of the comments here and elsewhere, and find a common theme. Ken had a profoundly deep and lasting impact on so many, and that is surely one of the best measure of a person's greatness. I am among those people whose life was greatly affected by Ken. Often without words, he demonstrated what life was like on the mountaintop of our profession, and he made me and so many others want to make the climb. It is no exaggeration to say that watching Ken take care of his patients and teach motivated me to want to do the same, and stimulated my interest in cardiology. Said another way, and more simply, I wanted to be like Ken Baughman. I know he was a loving husband and father, a dedicated physician, a gifted teacher, and the greatest of role models. My deepest condolences to Cheryl and the Baughman family on the loss of a truly great, great man.
Sandi and Joe Adams
December 5, 2009
Dear Cheryl, Matt, Chris, Michelle, Holly and Ken's grands and Ken's extended family - As you gather in Massachusetts for Ken's memorial service we can set aside our feelings of shock, loss and grief long enough to write. We hope you feel surrounded by love, support and comfort from family and friends far and near, and that you give yourselves time to grieve, for you are enduring an incomprehensible loss.
We met Ken when Sandi interviewed him for a community newspaper column. He and Joe quickly became triathlon training partners and participants. Memories bring tears and laughter: Ken falling over on his bike when he forgot to put his feet down when stopping in traffic; Ken telling Cheryl "don't worry, I'm a doctor" when she balked at his insistence that she jog through their Baltimore neighborhood; the boys teaching us how to correctly pronounce "Baughman" over breakfast at our house; Ken overseeing Joe's emergency heart surgery and care following our 6 a.m. telephone call to his home; Joe's brother doing a fast, forced exit from Joe's bedside in Hopkin's recovery unit after Ken went in and sent him out.
In more recent years we've been in touch through cards, phone calls and emails. Ken helped our daughter-in-law with medical referrals in Boston and Baltimore; Cheryl introduced us to webcam so we could enjoy grandchildren and our distant son; and Ken aptly named Joe "Silent Lion" when he was on forced voice rest.
As is so evident in entries in this wonderful guest book, we have all lost Ken. We have not lost the rich and loving relationships we had with him. We will remember how Sesame Street taught us that "It's alright to cry." We'll find Ken in rainbows and snowflakes and the ocean off of Bethany. We'll find Ken where ever there is love.
Sandi and Joe Adams
Lutherville, Maryland
nisha chandra strobos
December 5, 2009
To the Baughman family,
I came to this great country 35 yrs ago ,and had the unique privledge to work with Ken, who was not only my ACS , but really my friend and my coach, always pushing me to do "more".!
He lead by example, always there for his team , his patients , never tiring. And Cheryl was his strength , hosting and caring for a generation of us , his houseofficers, as only a parent can!!
At my promotion , Dr Baughman said " so what will be your legacy?" . His words ,seemed stern, challenging but as he knew they would, his words echo in my mind every single day .They make me want to be better yet and emulate my great teacher.
His legacy is astounding : he has nurtured and spawned a generation of physicians who were taught "the baughman way" that there is no service greater than the care and dedication of the doctor for his patient. I ,like many , have been so very very blessed to have had Ken as a teacher and friend. To cheryl and the family , we extend our prayers and deepest condolences.
Nisha chandra strobos
Nancy Strahan
December 4, 2009
Dear Cheryl and family,
I was so saddened to hear of Ken's untimely death while jogging at the AHA meetings. I think I will always remember what I was doing and where I was when I heard the news. (I was about to start seeing patients at Greenspring Staion that Tuesday morning.) I told Rosemary Hopkins and Mary Majchrak. We were all so stunned we could not start seeing patients for what seemed like an hour. There are very few events in my life that had the same impact. I remember where I was when Kenndedy was shot and when the World Trade centers fell and now, when Ken Baughman died. It was that earth shattering. And if I felt that way, I can imagine how you felt.
It was a day that divided time.
I met Ken when he was a resident at Hopkins and I a medical student around 1974. He remained a role model and mentor for many years, though we lost touch when I went into private practice. I only learned after his death that he was responsible for bringing me back to Hopkins 10 years ago. How eternally grateful I am to him for saving my professional career. How sad I am for you all to have to grapple with such a sudden death around the holidays. I, myself, had to deal with the sudden loss of my mother on Christmas day, and remember all too well how devastated I was for years.
Please know that I am thinking of you. Thank you for sharing Ken with me and the whole medical community for the short time he was with us. I hope our paths cross sometime.
Janice Cain
December 4, 2009
To the Baughman Family,
You do not know us, but Dr. Baughman truly saved my husbands life. Almost 3 years ago my 39 year old husband had heart failure and he was lucky enough to be sent to B&W where he received the most incredible care from Dr. Baughman and his team.
At this difficult time we wanted to let you know how very saddened we were to hear of your loss. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers and will never forget the man who touched our lives in so much more than just a clinical and medical manor.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Janice and Russell Cain
Gus Leimkuhler
December 3, 2009
Dear Cheryl, I happened to call Mary Alice Weimer today and she told me the terrible details about Ken's death. I am truly truly sorry. I read some of the entries and had to stop....what a beautiful as well as wonderful physician he must have been. Please know that I have valued my knowing you both over the years even though the Northtown years were a few years ago...but you were special to me then and still are. My heart is with you and your family, With deepest grief, Gus Leimkuhler, NKC, Mo.
Beverly Lorell
December 3, 2009
December 3, 2009
Dear Cheryl and family,
John and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Ken. I vividly remember my first day of cardiology fellowship in the Bullfinch basement when I met Ken with his puckish slow smile and quiet gracious warmth. It was a start of a very long friendship with Ken and then with you Cheryl. Although Ken and I kept up our friendship via cardiology and meetings during your years in Baltimore, both John and I were elated when you moved back to Harvard and Newton.
Ken's enthusiasm for cardiology and caring for patients was passionate and an inspiration for all the lives he touched. He was never satisfied with "it's good enough." He and I also had many conversations about finding the right balance between career and home. At dinner at AHA last month, he was filled with joy about the 1st priority of his role as grandfather. Cheryl, he also laughed and then said with all seriousness that it was you who were teaching him every day how to do this.
We will all miss Ken very deeply but know that he will continue to teach and be with each of us in many ways.
John and I extend our deepest condolences to you and your family.
With our love,
Bev and John
Murray Sarubin
December 2, 2009
I first met Ken in 1987. We were both charter members of a masters swim club in Baltimore. For the next 15 years I saw Ken 2 or 3 times a week. We both shared a passion for endurance sports, especially triathlon. Eventually we became training partners in preparation for an Ironman event. I got to know Ken very well during our 3 to 6 hour training rides and was always amazed that after riding 75 hot, hilly north Baltimore county miles Ken would tell me that he was heading for the hospital after a quick shower.
I have never seen the level of dedication that Ken had in anyone else. He always told me that his passion, other than his family, was training excellent cardiologists and caring for his patients. I know first-hand because Ken became my doctor.
His loss is incomprehensible. I feel that it was an honor to have known Ken and shared some of his precious time with him.
My heart goes out to Cheryl and her family. My thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time
Jan McGee
December 2, 2009
As only the closest of neighbors can, we here in Baltimore, on just a couple of streets in our close-knit neighborhood of Guilford, shared the joys, sorrows, ups and downs of everyday life. Our families grew up together,learned from one another, helped mend broken bones and heal broken hearts. We watched our little ones toddle together, and now, raise toddlers of their own.
Through the years we saw Ken grow from resident at Hopkins to nationally re-knowned Cardiologist. Cheryl, the most giving wife and mother a husband could have, so proud of Ken's successes. They played their roles from Mom and Dad to Grandfather and Grandmother with loyalty, commitment and total joy.
For years there were neighborhood get togethers and parties. Annual Fourth of July crab feasts; Cheryl and Ken's Halloween parties; celebrating Cheryl's 50th with Ken dressed as an unlikely Elvis and Cheryl dressed as his loyal Bee Bop Queen, with a special performance by the Sweet Tarts.
The Sweet Tarts. We six close friends formed this group years ago, to get and give advice, to share our private thoughts, but mostly, to have "wild and crazy" times. We have get togethers to laugh long and hard over outrageous antics that certainly broke our respective molds. Cheryl is our brightest smile, our star of laughter.
There is little our words can do to take away the pain of the overwhelming loss you are feeling, dear friend. We wish we could take this terrible sorrow from you. Be assured that we are here for you, for whatever you need to help you, and to help mend your broken heart. We wrap you in our friendship and our love.
We wish to extend our deepest sympathy to all who knew and loved Ken. To Cheryl, Matt and Michelle, to Chris and Holly, and to their grandchildren. To Ken's family and friends; to his family of co-workers; and to his family of patients. We all share in the loss of this great healer and saver of lives, and we share in gratitude for his time with us.
Much love,
The Sweet Tarts
Jan Gina, Pat, Kathy and Linda
John L. Parker, Jr.
December 1, 2009
What a remarkable human being and healer we have lost.
Count me as another of the many hundreds -- if not thousands -- of patients who owe their lives to Ken Baughman and his wonderful colleagues and staff at B&W.
I showed up on his doorstep in September of 2007 with an attack of viral myocarditis that had left me very near death.
Two weeks later I walked out of the critical care unit under my own steam, and a week after than left the hospital altogether, en route to a complete recovery.
Dr. Baughman was reluctant to go along with my claim of being perhaps his biggest "save" ever. "Maybe the tallest," he said.
I will cherish my memories of bantering with this wry physician who was also a fellow runner and triathlete. He was also -- and so obviously from the first moment you met him -- a caring and empathetic old soul.
And after reading some of the many tributes to him here, it's obvious there was so much more than that to the man.
It is not possible to imagine the loss and grief now being experienced by those who knew him so much better than I.
Kerry Stewart
November 30, 2009
Dear Cheryl and family,
I was truly saddened by the loss of Ken. When I first joined the faculty at Hopkins Bayview in the early 80's, my earliest interactions with him was when I needed a cardiologist for my mother, who was living in NYC. Needless to say, for your mother, you seek out the best, and everyone pointed me to Ken. Without hesitation, he took her on as a patient and made sure that she got the best of care at Hopkins. We got to know each other much more when he became the chief of cardiology at Hopkins and was immediately the strongest supporter of our nascent cardiac rehabilitation and clinical exercise physiology program. He was the driving force beyond the expansion of our clinical and research activities in this specialized field, which usually does not find its way readily in academic cardiology. Nevertheless, his belief in this approach to treatment of patients with exercise not only reflected his own personal lifestyle but he also had a great respect for the science underlying this discipline. Today, our very successful and highly respected programs in this area would not have been possible without the early support of Ken. Though many at Hopkins are pursuing "gene" therapy, it was his belief that "gym" therapy was as important that allowed our programs to have a major impact in medicine. I am so sorry that he is not here to see that what we do now and how we help patients, none of which would have been possible without his early support. On a more personal level, though we have not kept in touch much since he left Hopkins, I always think of him as a friend, always approachable and always supportive. We will miss him greatly and I wish the best for you and your family.
Karen Morth
November 30, 2009
Dear Family of Dr. Baughman,
It was a pleasure working with Dr. Baughman. He always had a special smile, I will miss him.
Bruce McCurry
November 29, 2009
Dear Cheryl,sons and family,
When Jim Heeter told me this weekend of Ken's passing, I felt a deep personal loss. The accolades and admiration expressed in these pages are no surprise---they come from everyone who knew him. I cannot imagine your loss. My memories: I met "Baughie" in the summer of 1965, attending the University of Missouri. Cheryl, I met you soon thereafter, Ken's rock. Then I had the pleasure of living with him at 909 Richmond for the next 3 years, where we were brothers by choice. From ATO Rush Chairman and President, to President of Sigma Rho Sigma, to ODK, to Mystical 7, there was Baughie, leading and teaching others to lead. Often he was so busy giving his time and counsel to others, there little time for himself. Whenever my ship of life lost its rudder, there was Baughie with his wit, wisdom and clarity showing me the way. He had time for me. He wanted me to succeed. If he was not the most noble, kind, caring and loyal person I met at Mizzou, it would not take long to call the roll. I looked up to him. We all did. I will miss my friend. God's peace to you.
Willie T Scott Jr
November 29, 2009
I, like so many others was a witness and a recipient of Dr. Baughmans's very dedicated physisician abilities. His wit was dry, yet always funny and kind. After my heart translpant, he came into my room to check in on me. With the meds, my mind was a little hazy and I could not think of his name, so I just said, "Hey, doc,' His instant reply was 'Hey, patient!' His skill and talent in the cath lab was special. I will miss him so very much and I offer my condolences to his family. He was a good, gentle man as well as one of the best cardiologists ever!
Myra Fine
November 29, 2009
Dr. Baghman was one of the team of my doctors at JHH. I have never seen someone so dedicated to his patients. He came into my room one night around 11pm. He was back at 6am. I asked, "when did you sleep?" He answered, "I haven't had time". One time he slept on a chair beside a patients bed. She was young and very sick. He put his arms on the bed and slept there because he was afraid to leave her. I have never heard of anyone doing this. I wanted him to do my biopsies because he was the very best. We, the patients used to talk about his golden hands. He was missed when he left JHH and he will be forever missed by those who had him as their doctor.
Chuck Woodring
November 29, 2009
To the Baughman family,
As a current patient of Dr. B's, I will sorely miss him. He was my goto man when it came to trips to the cath lab. His dry humor and relaxed manner were very comforting and made me feel he was a friend more than just another Dr. doing his job.
I hope you all can gain some comfort from the knowledge that Dr. B was more than what his great life history suggests, he was a great caring human being.
Lindsay Lebresco (Buchanan)
November 29, 2009
I have to say, I hadn't thought of Dr. Baughman for quite a few years but when I heard of his passing, I was very saddened. Dr. Baughman gave me something immeasurable- my father and my kid's granddad. Nearly 30 years ago, Dr. Baughman saved my dad's life as his cardiologist. It's hard to believe that he did this when he was just a few years older than I am now. He was obviously remarkable in our eyes but after reading through all these comments it's obvious we're not the only ones who's lives he touched and changed in an incredible way. We're very sorry for your loss-for everyone's loss.
Marie Caulfield
November 29, 2009
To the Baughman family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I am one of the many lucky nurses who worked with Dr. Baughman for several years. I like to believe that I was one of his favorites, as he was one of my favorites. There are so many things that I will miss about him. I will miss him walking down the hall with the scale to take his own patient's weight. I will miss that twinkle in his eye when I would ask him if he could take another patient's weight for me. The joke never got old!!
We had a special bond as a physician and nurse and one that I will miss dearly. He allowed me be a better nurse with his teaching, patience, and compassion. As a friend, he was helping me become a better triathlete. One of our last conversations was his advice to me to join a masters swim program. I am joining one this week.
He touched so many lives of patients and colleagues and he will be missed. He was admired and respected by all.
May you find peace in your hearts knowing that he was loved by all the nurses who worked with him.
linda james
November 28, 2009
Dear Cheryl,Matt and Chris,
I will miss Ken alot
Thank-you for sharing him with all of us.
I share in your grief.
Patrick Sullivan
November 28, 2009
I was stunned when I received the letter from Dr. Patrick O'Gara that informed me of Dr.Baughman's death. I had assumed that on my next routine visit to the hospital I might see Dr. Baughman as he walked along the halls of the Shapiro Center. I was only a patient of the good Doctor, but I never felt unimportant while in his presence. In fact, his personal style was one of gentleness and compassion towards me. In addition, I will always remember that when I encountered him, either in the hallways or during an examination or other procedure, I would greet him by saying "Hello Doctor" to which he would always respond "Hello Patient". I will forever miss the blessing of that brief exchange of words; somehow I felt it was unique to our relationship. Dr. Baughman was a superlative clinician, researcher, Doctor, teacher, and leader. He will be sorely missed, but he has left a sterling legacy by the way he demonstrated his consummate professionalism towards everyone whom he encountered. I express my condolences to the his wife, his children, and all the other members of his family. However, they can be comforted by the fact that I am certain God has approved of the quality of this good man's exceptional contribution to others during his lifetime. I know I will remember him always in my prayers. (Patrick Sullivan - New Britain, CT)
November 28, 2009
To the Baughman Family
My wife and I first met Ken at Brigham's in 2004. He was a most caring
physician and we will always miss him as a friend.Please receive our heartfelt condolences.Jose and Donna Ramirez
Jerome Granato
November 27, 2009
To the Baughman Family
I first met Ken around 1977 when he was a Hopkins ACS and I was a medical student. For 32 years he has served as my mentor and my friend.There is no one who has a greater impact on me, as a physician, teacher and human being. I cherished the times we spent together and take some comfort that I was able to tell him how much he meant to me. This year, I was thrilled to be able to dedicate my book on coronary artery disease to him. In May , we met in Boston and shared some very happy time together.
I owe Ken Baughman a debt that can never be repaid. My career and my character is the product of all he invested in me.
Thank you and God bless you.
Collin Seguin
November 27, 2009
To the Baughman family:
I am so very sorry for your loss. I worked at the Brigham for 2 years, 2003-2005, and during that time worked quite a bit with Dr. Baughman in the cardiology clinic. He was always kind, caring, and taught me a great deal. He encouraged me when I was looking to advance my career, and offered some great words of advice when I left the hospital.
Recently, he took on a family member as a patient, and made an incredible difference in their heart health. For that, my family will forever be grateful.
The world lost a great doctor and an amazing person. I am truly sorry for your loss, and my thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family.
Karen Joynt
November 27, 2009
A number of people have written about Dr. Baughman's special "twinkle in the eye," and I think that's what I'll remember and miss most about him. His unflappable grace, staunch dedication to his patients, and absolutely unwavering ability to look at the world with simultaneous humor and realism, a rare combination, made me a better doctor for having worked with him and a better person for having known him. If a person is measured by the number of lives he touched, then Dr. Baughman was truly a giant. It's incredible to think that literally an entire generation of Brigham and Hopkins trainees will be carrying a little piece of Dr. Baughman with them each time they search out the JVP or listen for an extra heart sound, and that so many patients will benefit from that influence. My sincerest condolances to his family, about whom he talked frequently and with much pride; I am so very sorry for your loss.
Amanda Jones
November 26, 2009
Hello Baughman Family,
My name is Amanda Jones, I was Ken's secretary while I was working on my masters degree in science education for two years and I think that I was his first secetary at the Brigham. Sorry if there are typos but it is late and I am tired.
Last week has been the worst week of my life. Both of my parents are still alive, thank God and we are both close friends. Your dad, and husband, were of the utmost support and kindness to me in my life of tranistion while I was becoming a teacher. I won the Georgia Science Teacher of the Year 2 years ago thanks to his mentorhship in my life.
Ken was a man that I trusted and brought leadership instead of following the crowd, so we say, into my life. I know he missed his two boys as he told me of you two all the time! (I am in my mid 30s too!). I know how much he lived to serve, as I scheduled a lot of things. He always wanted to be where the greatest need was at that time, sometimes second by second.
I don't think that my life would be as happy now without his infuence, and though I am a petty secretary in his life, I feel I knew him well. I saw him in many moods and he always had the clear bue tunnel vision to know what was right and how to handle the lives of others. He is a man that made me a better teacher and I wish that he was still here. I love Ken so much and enen though we have not spoken since I left, I have worn the necklace thaat he, Aileen, Rose, Cherly, etc. bought for me since he passed; it is the Tiffany's necklace that stands for friendship. Ken is a great friend, no matter who you are. Ken cares, period. I remember putting his sandwiches in the fridge becaue I know he wouldn't eat them at noon, it would be after I was gone at 5pm. But he didn't say it was good or bad, he just ate what Cheryl made daily and did what he wanted to...serve people out of love.
He gave confidence to those that needed it and grounded those that needed it as well. I love you Ken, Cherly and family, but especially you Ken. I will never be able to repay what you did for me. Like Susie, my previous mentor that I loved like a mom for years, you treated me like a daughter, and respected me as an individual. I will never run without thinking of you,,,and I run 6 days week. Gooodbye my friend.
Tears, goodbye.
I love you Ken. Remember this: I need a 39 foot long cord for her. Ha. Thank you for being you. Cheryl, I can't imagine how sad you are...I love you too. Sorry.
Moving Toward The Light
Lynne Warner Stevenson
November 25, 2009
To The Baughman Family,
Now time is marked by the milestones; at first it is remembering this time yesterday, then this time last week. As you now turn to look toward the first year milestone, I hope that you can begin to find comfort in some memories, which for later milestones will carry more joy as well. It seems to be true that the pain never becomes less deep or less dark, but it is certain that it will become less often.
My father was a professor who died suddenly at the same age, of the disease that Ken worked so hard to prevent, so that he would not leave you prematurely. I remember that my brother and I were astonished to find how many of our father’s students and colleagues had seen some of the same wisdom and humor that we grew up with and within. During the past week, you have had many such affirmations and revelations.
Ken through his own tireless commitment set an example higher than he expected from others. I will not repeat more of what we all know and revere. Instead I will try to touch on only 3 aspects of his unusual strengths that his colleagues and students should strive to emulate. His dedication to training, to patients, and to science was seasoned uniquely with true selflessness and humility. Most of his daily efforts were unheralded by himself or others at the time. He is living proof of Edith Cavell’s conviction that you can accomplish anything if you don’t worry about who gets the credit. A very special aspect of Ken’s mentorship is one that I did not fully appreciate until he is no longer here in his office; he usually did not tell us what he thought we were capable of doing, nor did he even tell us whether we had done it. He taught each of us instead to look inside and ask it honestly of ourselves. Like all truly great teachers in the Socratic method, he said little, but with the intensity of that gaze, he gave us the tools to examine ourselves.
Life can only end in one form to take another. Ken will live on in the generations of people he has taught who have gone on to teach others. I am envious of your family however, in that he will live most richly on through you and your lives. I wish that this part of his immortality were not won at the price of such great pain for you at this time. There are two meanings of milestone; it can be the lone marker at the side of the road to indicate the distance from a given location, and it can also be a turning point in a field of knowledge, a task, or a life. I wish you Godspeed as you move toward the light.
November 25, 2009
Dear Baughman family,
My deepest condolences for your loss. I was a 5th year resident in the cardiothoracic surgery program at Hopkins when I had my 2nd episode of myocarditis. Dr. Baughman and Dr. Traill were my cardiologists. I am so grateful to both of them for taking care of me. Dr. Baughman was truly one of the finest physicians and colleagues I have ever known. I was more scared the 2nd time around because I really understood the possible outcomes that could befall me and I had complete trust and faith in Dr. Baughman. He has made a tremendous impact on so many people's lives, not just mine. Bless you all.
Elaine Tseng, San Francisco
Michaelene Llewellyn
November 25, 2009
Dear Cheryl: Ken was such a superlative example to us all. I can only add my tribute to the hundreds of others already here. Please accept my condolences, and know that he...and you...will be remembered with great respect, warmth and fondness.
Lowell Maughan
November 25, 2009
Dear Cheryl and family,
Linda and I are profoundly saddened by the loss of our dear colleague and friend. Ken was an inspiration and mentor to both of us. He impacted both of our professional lives directly and importantly but perhaps more importantly, impacted our personal lives by his constant search for perfection tempered by a quick smile and wonderful warmth and sense of humor. I believe Ken was the most disciplined individual I have known. He was loved and inspired by so many and will be missed deeply.
Elizabeth (Talbott) Santos
November 25, 2009
Dear Baughman Family-
Your husband/Dad/brother/Grandfather's rare combination of great intellect and tremendous emotional intelligence demonstrated that the greatest gift of all is love, as only love gives full meaning to life. Twenty months ago following my diagnosis of cardiomyopathy, and just as my heart catherization and biopsy were completed at BWH under Dr. Baughman's care, I was getting ready to be discharged from the hospital when my beloved father died in VA. I had missed seeing and being with him by just a few hours. The sorrow hit me so unbelievably hard. I felt emotionally "bungee corded" back to being 5 years old and I was convulsed with sobbing. Dr. Baughman came into my room just as I got the news. He sat on my bed and gently held my hands. As I struggled to get my deep sobs under control and to regain my ability to speak he gently but firmly asked me what I was "thinking". At first I thought it was odd that he wasn't asking me what I was feeling, but then I realized that what I was feeling was really obvious so he didn't need to waste precious time on that question. But for several minutes I struggled to think. He waited patiently. Then I blurted out that I was "thinking" that I was "now a 59-year-old orphan". He nodded his head and said he "knew" and that he was "so glad" that I had not been an orphan at age 9. Those few caring but equally wise words gave me perspective and I felt grateful for having my father in my life for so long, and that helped me regain my emotional strength so I could fly immediately to VA for my father's funeral. When I got home to Maine from VA ten days later, following a hospitalization there, I had a message on our phone from a social worker at BWH who shared that Dr. Baughman had notified her of my father's death and she was "checking" in "fopr him" to see how I "was doing". Again, Dr. Baughman just naturally went that extra caring mile! I wrote to Dr. Baughman and thanked him for being so compassionate and willing to share his wisdom with me when I needed it the most. Because of his unstinting efforts for his patients, and because of his deep empathy, I know that he now has a special place in heaven and that his spirit shines down on us all as a new dazzling star, just as his dancing blue eyes and gentle dry humor lifted our heavy hearts and minds while he was here with us. Knowing that will comfort us as we grieve our profound loss of such a wonderful doctor and a most caring and generous human being. As you relocate to CO, Mrs. Baughman, my family joins me in sending each of you, and Aileen Sauris and Dr. Baughman's many dedicated colleagues, our prayers at this most sad time- Elizabeth (Talbott) Santos, West Minot, Maine
George Talbott
November 24, 2009
I would like to offer my heart felt condolances to the family of Dr. Baughman. I was a patient of his at Johns Hopkins in 1999.and would not be here today with out his care.
Erin Michos
November 24, 2009
I know there are so many many people devastated by this profound tragedy, as I am. I know I am not alone in my sorrow. But I also wanted to pass on to his family my profound, deepest sadness at this loss of such a great man and mentor.
As a former trainee of the internal medicine residency program at Hopkins on the "Barker" medical firm who worked with him closely during residency (as he admitted all of his patients to the Barker service), and like so many other trainees, I feel that he directly shaped my career direction. I credit him, in large part, for inspiring my interest in cardiology. I am just one of so many whose lives he touched in a profound way.
Dr. Baughman always chose to be the Barker Teaching Attending in July, and I remember meeting him for the first time my very first week of internship. At first we were all highly intimidated by him, until we realized that he was such a softie under that gruff exterior. I remember him leading us July interns from bedside to bedside doing cardiology physical exam skills - he was "tough" with us in a good way. I remember doing all this extra reading about cardiac physical exam findings just trying to impress him the next day (or at least to avoid being chided). He always would tell it like it is, and his patients loved him for it. We loved him for it.
He had so many good qualities - of course he was an outstanding clinician and teacher...but I also remember him so fondly for his dry wit and sense of humor. I have a vivid memory of falling asleep post-call at some computer on Halsted 5 when I suddenly felt my chair in motion rolling backwards, and I nearly jumped out of my skin until I looked up and saw his devilish grin, and we both had a good laugh.
There are so many countless examples of the moments of his time that he generously shared with us during these pivotal times of our medicine training. He opened up his home to us, and had the Barker interns, SARS, and ACS over to his house for a backyard barbeque. He personally met with all the medicine residents applying to cardiology, and gave me specific advice regarding my cardiology fellowship applications. I still remember how he anwered all his pages/phone calls with "Baughman" in a quick one-syllable way. He was a man of few words with us, which led us to cling on to every single word he said.
With deep sadness, Erin
Dinnie Fortuin
November 24, 2009
Dear Cheryl: I haven't been able to find the words--I think of you every day. These many remarks above are such a wonderful tribute to a fine man---None of us can quite absorb this---I will never forget your stories about your high school romance---It always stuck with me as a unique memory and special situation....---We love you- Dinnie
Alice Carmody
November 24, 2009
Hello Cheryl, Matt and Chris -
I hope each day gets a little better. We are all so privledged to know Ken as well as all of you. The service was lovely and my heart goes out to you. Please let me know if I can come to Boston in December to help out and then fly back to denver with Cheryl.
Stay strong - Love and Hugs
Alice Carmody
Josh Beckman
November 24, 2009
Dearest Baughman Family,
I had the privilege of working down the hall from Ken at BWH. As a colleague, he was welcoming, provided guidance, and made clear the opaque. As a mentor, he expanded your horizons and led the way forward. However, it is the clinical arena in which Ken was a true champion. With clinical judgment second to none and personal support that was unending, his patients would come from near and far because they felt safer with him. His dedication to them was without limit matched only by their devotion to him. Personally, I can only say he will serve as a role model.
My last memory of Ken is fitting. We both attended the Laennec competition for young clinicians at the AHA meetings. We had two fellows competing. Ken was in the audience to support our junior colleagues, providing an encouraging and calming presence among a sea of strangers. When the competition ended, he provided congratulations and kudos to the participants and then was on his way to do the same again for his next meeting.
Please accept my and my family's condolences for a wonderful doctor, teacher, mentor, and friend. He will be sorely missed.
Josh and Lauren Beckman
November 24, 2009
Dear Baughman Family,
How can any words express the saddness on Ken's death? I knew him when he was a physician at JHH. His quiet power was ever present.
I asked him to care for my father several years back, and he took on that challenge...my father was a tough old bird. Ken was the one person who could make my father pay attention! I knew that my father was in the best of hands and my father knew that also.
I so enjoyed seeing him in his various hats. I always felt that each hat represented one of his many roles he took on with the people he cared for and worked with in his cardiology life. He was such a unique individual. Any time I had a question, he always had a sensible answer to my problem.
His passing is a loss to the cardiology community, to those of us for whom he was a caretaker, and to you who knew him as husband, father, grandfather. May the wonderful memories of his vital spirit help you in this time of saddness. Ken will be missed...and remembered!
Susan Townsend, JHH, Baltimore, MD
Chris Parsons
November 23, 2009
Dr. Baughman's approach to the cardiac history and physical examination were effectively communicated to all of his "troops" in the Barker firm at Hopkins....usually in front of the patients so that they understood exactly what was being said. He had perfected the art of bedside teaching and his methods will be passed on to generations of physicians for years to come. He was a very special person.
John Jarcho
November 23, 2009
I was shocked and saddened to hear the terrible news of Ken's death. I worked with him both in the Advanced Heart Disease Program at the Brigham and at the New England Journal of Medicine, and I knew him as a thoroughgoing gentleman, a thoughtful and caring physician, a charismatic leader and a wryly funny man. My heart goes out to his family in this tragedy. He was loved by his colleagues and will be greatly missed.
Shannon Koinzan (Lattik)
November 23, 2009
I'm so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Paula Murray
November 23, 2009
I offer my heartfelt condolences to the Baughman family. I started as a newly graduated RN on Halsted 5 at JHH in 1992 and have the utmost respect for Dr. Baughman. After getting over my initial fear of him, I realized how much he cared for his patients and of his desire to give excellent care. This realization allowed me to approach him with clinical questions and he always had time to teach. One memory stays with me in particular- he was the only physician I knew who would write an order for 'potato chips' or 'one beer' if the patient situation demanded it. Those little things would make the patient's day (week!). They do not know how lucky they were to have him.
I am truly sorrow for your loss.
November 23, 2009
Dear Cheryl,
I was so sorry to hear about Kenny's ( I knew him as that) death. Although we have not seen each other in many years I feel a great sense of loss for you and your family. I know you will all will miss him more that can be said. I will pray for comfort for you all and all who knew him and will miss his presence.
Gwen Jennings Batchelor (Class of 64)
Lili Barouch
November 23, 2009
It is with great sadness that I add my condolences to those of so many others to Cheryl and her sons and the rest of the family.
Ken was an unparalleled clinician and a great mentor. He was inspiration to me and so many others throughout my training and beyond, and I was very privileged to learn heart failure and transplant cardiology from the master. No matter how busy he was, he always made time to offer his expertise and guidance when asked. His encouragement has been invaluable for me over the years.
When I first began my fellowship in cardiology, I found out I was pregnant less than 2 months into a 4 year training program. I nervously approached Ken's office to tell him the news, expecting some kind of stern reaction. Instead I got only a genuine expression of happiness and congratulations, along with assurances that my schedule would be adjusted however I needed.
He taught me how to examine and take care of patients with congestive heart failure for 3 years during my fellowship. One of the key parts of the physical exam for such patients is to estimate the jugular venous pressure. Ken was a true master at this technique, which can be tricky to learn. Initially, I was often way off in my assessment (and he told me so!), but as I improved, he would still declare that my measurement was off by at least 1 cm, even though that small discrepancy didn't make any difference in the care of the patient. It became an ongoing ritual - if I would say 7 cm, he would say 8. If I said 11 cm, he would say 10. Finally, shortly before he left Hopkins, I gave him my assessment and he simply said with a little nod, "That's about right." It was high praise.
Since he left Hopkins in 2002, I would stop by his office in Boston whenever I was there for a visit, and we would talk about everything from cardiology and academic medicine to running and triathlon.
I last saw Ken the day before the tragic accident. We were both at the American Heart Association meeting in Orlando, with many of our colleagues. When we met there, he wanted to know why I was sitting around talking to him instead of swimming in the pool to train for my next race.
His death is a tremendous loss for all of us. It was an honor to have been trained by Ken Baughman, and a privilege to call him a friend.
Spring & Bruce Metcalf
November 23, 2009
Dear Cheryl and Family,
Please accept our deepest heartfelt sympathy with the sudden passing of Dr. Baughman. He touched the lives of so many and made a huge difference in this world. May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. His legacy will live on!
I'm keeping all of you close in thought and prayer during this very difficult time.
November 23, 2009
It is with tremendous sadness that I write these words to express my sincerest condolences to Cheryl and her sons.
I had the very memorable honor to work as Dr. Baughman's administrative assistant at The Johns Hopkins Hospital for 13 years. What a wonderful part of my life.
I cannot imagine the medical world without the 'Clint Eastfield of Cardiology' nor can I fathom the loss felt by his patients and their families who meant the world to him.
He treated my brother-in-law as well as my Dad both of whom were better for knowing the great clinician KLB.
I was equally honored to know Cheryl Baughman as she was his best work ever! What a great partner he had in life. Truly an amazing family.
As all my days end and my thoughts go to prayer you will be there with me Dr Baughman. It was a pleasure to have known you.
Pat Davis
Linda Rittelmann
November 23, 2009
Like many others, I shared the privilege of working with, and for, KLB for more than eight years at Hopkins. He was my boss, my mentor, and most of all, my friend. I adored his dry, sardonic wit, and we spent a lot of time in an old, beat up Saturn, visiting cardiologists and trying to reach out to other physicians in the Baltimore and Eastern Shore developing referral networks. He always put others before himself, and he had more integrity than perhaps anyone I've every met. Integrity so unwavering, it got him in trouble from time to time with others who had less of it.
He ALWAYS made time for his family, and if ever there were a "woman behind the successful man" - it was Cheryl, who brought her own success to bear. He was SO proud of her!
I was devastated when he left for Boston, but none so devastated as I am to his loss today. He was a very special man who I will always remember as being kind, and for taking a personal interest in me and my career. He was genuinely one of a kind. And will be missed.
My thoughts are with Cheryl and the family - I know you have all suffered an irreparable loss. Perhaps these words of condolence will help sustain you in the coming weeks and months ahead.
Michelle Palmer
November 23, 2009
God Bless your family in this time of sorrow.
Robert Stuart
November 23, 2009
To the Baughman family. Ken was my Assistant Chief of Service in the Barker firm 1975-76 during my junior resident year. The highlight of my day was Ken's late night visit to Osler 2 to hear about the day's admissions. Although Ken cultivated a no-nonsense demeanor, I suspected he had a real sense of humor, which was finally confirmed the night I tricked him into trying to do an ophthalmscopic exam on a patient with a glass eye. His slight smile as he returned the ophthalmoscope and one word comment, "Nice," made it a little episode I have never forgotten. Like so many others, I was inspired to emulate Ken's professionalism and dedication. Over 30 years later, I feel the enormous sense of loss. My profound condolences.
imad alhaddad
November 23, 2009
I will always remember the the time I met ken and then he gave me the great opportunity to establish the vascular service at hopkins-cardiology.
Our deepest condolences to his family. What a great loss to family, friends, colleagues and patients.
Roger Grawe
November 23, 2009
Dear Cheryl, Looking back to my first memories of Ken as a fellow Cub Scout through all the growing pains of high school, it's clear that Ken's outstanding human qualities celebrated in page after page of this record,have been life-long attributes. His sense of fun, of fairness, of friendship were already special. And by high school his ability to reach out to all, to use his great intelligence as a means for service, were clearly evident. Please accept my deepest condolences for this enormous loss.
Liz Holt
November 23, 2009
During internship and residency on the Barker Firm I had the privilege of helping take care of many of Dr. Baughman's patients. As an intern, I appreciated the time he took to seek me out and tell me about the patients when he admitted them. In each new patient's chart there would be Dr. Baughman's distinctive handwriting, carefully detailing his findings on the cardiovascular exam. This provided trainees a benchmark for improving our diagnostic skills.
What was most memorable was the confidence and trust the patients showed in Dr. Baughman's care. They and their families clearly knew that a uniquely competent doctor was at the helm and that they would get better.
Amy Spooner
November 22, 2009
I feel incredibly fortunate to have had Dr. Ken Baughman’s influence over my career, first as a medical student “sub-intern” on the Barker Firm, later as an internal medicine resident, and ultimately as a cardiologist who was encouraged by and learned so much from Dr. Baughman’s Hopkins Cardiology Division of the 1990s. By his example, he was the person who showed us how a warm and witty sense of humor could put patients at ease and make the patient-doctor relationship all the stronger. His quiet presence was very comforting to the patients and trainees alike. His patients loved him, trusted him, and had faith that he would do all that he could to guide them through complex and difficult illnesses. He was an extraordinarily gifted, motivated, and inspiring human being. I am heartbroken for the Baughman family, and I want to thank them for sharing this wonderful man with all of us.
November 22, 2009
Like so many others, our hearts are heavy and sad. We are blessed when exceptional people are woven into the fabric of our lives as Dr. Baughman was in the lives of so many. I was honored to be a member of his staff at Hopkins. My husband, John, became his patient. His strong character, devotion to his patients, and compassionate nature were always a source of inspiration. But the greatest gift to us from him was when my John was in the CSICU unresponsive and close to death for weeks following a major cardiac event. One evening as I approached the darkened room, I saw Dr. Baughman reviewing medical data on the bedside computer. For the first time I experienced peace for I knew that if there was to be a chance of recovery is was because Dr. Baughman was now involved. Eventually, John left the unit and always looked forward to his follow up visits when the two of them would enjoy an exchange of dry humor quips. He remained John's Cardiologist and friend. We know that he saved John's life and are so very grateful.
Dear Cheryl, after meeting you I realized that it was your love that fueled your husband's caring and giving heart. Know that you and your beautiful family
have the love and sympathy of all who have been touched by your gentle and healing husband. It is with profound thankfulness and the utmost respect that we will always remember our dear Dr. Baughman. May God comfort you and your family now and in the days ahead.
John and Ellen Morris
Baltimore
Sarah Old
November 22, 2009
The halls of BWH will never be the same with the loss of Dr. Baughman. He touched the lives of so many. May the never ending love and prayers being sent to you from across the nation help sustain you in the days, weeks, months ahead.
Timothy Witham
November 22, 2009
I will never forget Dr Kenneth Baughman. I am currently a faculty member in the department of Neurosurgery at Hopkins. I was saddened to hear of his unexpected death when our chairman announced it at grand rounds. Although I did not go into internal medicine, Dr Baughman had a profound impact on my medical training. I would say that he was the closest thing to a surgeon in internal medicine/cardiology. Although he was intimidating to me as a 3rd year student rotating on the Barker firm, he demanded excellence and that has made me a better doctor. I will never forget him and the train conductor's hat.
My deepest sympathy and prayers are extended to Dr Baughman's family.
Tim Witham Hopkins Med Class of '94
The Hart Family
November 22, 2009
To the Baughman Family. We offer our deepest sympathy. Dr. Baughman was a part of my husband's transplant team at BWH. He was a comforting sight with a dry sense of humor but always had an encouraging word. My husband would always cross fingers and hope Dr. Baughman would be doing his biopsies. He will be sorely be missed. Thank you for sharing your husband, father, grandfather with us. BWH transplant team is our second family. We just loss our "father" from the team. May God bless and keep you during this differcult time. I pray you find comfort in the amazing testimonies here of a gentle giant gone oh too soon.
November 22, 2009
Dear Cheryl,
Ken was our friend and colleague from the time we came to Hopkins. We remember so well his dedication to you, his family, and his patients; his integrity and honesty – he always treated all with the same respect and fairness without pretense. He pursued and achieved excellence and relished new challenges. As a CCU attending, I was always glad to see him coming down the hall because I knew how much his patients would benefit and I would learn from that visit. His efforts with the Division were for Hopkins, not himself. He was a dogged cheer leader for all of us - I was always impressed with his ability to listen to and see every Hopkins Cardiology oral and abstract presentation at the annual AHA meetings. He will remain a role model and example of the very best that Hopkins offers to those who come for care, guidance, and compassion.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Garth and Gary Gerstenblith
Nancy Ham
November 22, 2009
Cheryl, Chris & Matt
My deepest sympathies on this tragic loss. Dr. Baughman was always so kind to me and just recenlty checked on my grandfather for me while he was at the Brighman under another physican's care. This book is testimony of Dr. Baughman's legacy. He has touched so many lives and I'm blessed to have known him. I'll keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Diane Lomaglio
November 22, 2009
I was so saddened to hear of the tragic loss of Dr Baughman. I have been a patient of his for 1 1/2 years and just saw him 3 weeks ago. Actually my Mom, Dad and Brother are also his patients, so usually our appointments were an entire "family outing". Dr Baughman has been very instrumental in all of our care. I couldn't believe my ears when dad said Ken Baughman died. I thought there must be some mistake, but there it was on the evening news. We all felt as though we lost a member of our own family! I've been reading a lot of entries in this book and there are so many families like mine who were touched by Dr Baughman. There will not be another like him. We will miss his smile, warmth and humor. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of this wonderful human being.
Sylvia Weber Reid
November 22, 2009
I am just the kid down the street in Indianola that knew Kenny growing up. I am so very sorry for your loss. I have read every entry and know how proud you must be of this wonderful man. He made a difference and was so loved.
November 22, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. Dr. Baughman was truly an outstanding physician. I only saw him at the change of shift but his patients and colleagues always spoke so highly of him.. I am honored to have had the opportunity to work as a part of his staff.
Hugh Herbert-Burns
November 22, 2009
There is no depth of sorrow deep enough to plumb for a man whose sudden death has left so many, many of us plunged into such deep sadness. Ken Baughman saved my life. He saw what no one had seen as life-threatening to me, before anyone else. He sat me down in his office at BWH and told me the hard facts and what surgery was necessary to be done. He told me with deep caring, with profound sincerity, and with that mystical mixture of confidence, humor, and professional conviction that was his gift as a brilliant physician to all of us fortunate enough to have been his patients.
He even somehow managed to find that special little piece of his busy day to say goodbye to me after my heart surgery, as I left the hospital. He shook my hand, looked me in the eye, with that mixture of deep kindness and with that slight smile playing about his lips, "Don't screw up", he said. "I'll see you soon!"
We won't see Ken soon, except that we will see him every day, as we all think of the man who will live forever in the hearts of those he loved and cared for.
Sue DeVeuve
November 22, 2009
I am a nurse in the cardiac cath lab at BWH. I will sincerely miss working with Ken. What a terrible, tragic loss. It is just unbelievable to me that I won't ever see him walking down the long hallway "in his lead"- with a smile on his face and a friendly greeting- to room 10 to do biopsies; joking with his patients who obviously all knew him well and were thrilled that he was the Doc "doing them" that day. I admired him for his extreme competency, his quick, dry humor, and especially for the confidence he evoked just by working with him. God Bless his wife and family. My thoughts and prayers go out to them, his friends, co-workers and patients. He will be so missed.
Don and Barbara Sellers
November 22, 2009
We were deeply saddened by the news of Ken’s death. Ken and Cheryl were our great friends from junior high school through medical and graduate schools. Ken was best man in our wedding. He was a hard working student who set a good example for the rest of us, an example that we rarely were able to match. He was a great buddy and close friend for many years. We will cherish our fond memories of his calm and friendly attitude. Our sympathy goes out to Cheryl, her boys, Matt and Chris, and to all the Baughman family.
Susan Buchanan
November 22, 2009
I had the honor, privilege, and pleasure of working with Dr. Baughman from his time on the firms until he left JHH. When my husband had an MI and was in another hospital I approached Dr. B, and he said "let's get him over here". He was my husbands cardiologist from then on. We both had the utmost faith in him, and he is responsible for the all the years my husband and I have had since. His hats were legend and one could tell alot about his day just by seeing which hat was being worn. His sense of humor was almost without equal. I want the Baughman family to know how much I thought of Dr. B and that I can't imagine how you must all feel at this time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Ray Buchanan
November 22, 2009
In my lifetime career in retail, the goal was always to create a satisfied customer. When it came to cardiology, Ken always created a satisfied customer. He had me transferred to JHH for my first bypass in 1982, sending another doctor to ride with me for reassurance. He got me through that and remained my doctor from then on. I looked forward to my visits with him. Then, 14 years later, I needed another bypass. And once again, he got me through. He remained my doctor until he left JHH - and I miss him still. His sense of humor was as much legend as his skill as a cardiologist. I looked forward to seeing which hat he would have on the day of my visits. I also fondly remember sitting with him and Cheryl watching his sons and my son and daughter on the same Rec baseball teams. I could go on and on, but I'll stop with saying that I'll miss him always and my thoughts and prayers are with Cheryl, Chris and Matt.
Christine Saunders
November 22, 2009
I am sitting here almost a week after Dr.B passing still not knowing how my son and his other patients are suppose to walk into clinic b and not see his face.My son was going to be seen twice this week one for a heart biobsy.I thank him for buying my son time on this earth Ken saw something in my son no other cardiologist did.As I sit here and wonder how this could have happened to someone so many people count on.I guess we will never no but I do no he is up in heaven looking out for all those heart patients who so desperatly need him.No doctor can ever measure up to him he was the BEST OF THE BEST!!!
Prem Shekar MD
November 22, 2009
I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with Ken at the BWH since his arrival in Boston. In his passing, we have lost a great physician leader, a superb clinical doctor with excellent patient rapport and sharp, precise clinical judgement (a fast disappearing talent today) and a fine human being. He has left a void that may never be filled.
Ken was one of few people who helped my wife and I during a very difficult part of our lives and career. Not many know this, but the impact he had on our lives has been significant. We will always be grateful to him.
My daily encounter with Ken would always be at around 7AM when he would be getting into the garage and I would be walking out. I would wave and he would nod from inside his car and we would go about our day's work. I would see him late at night somedays and he would say "Still here?" and I would say "Somebody's got to keep this place afloat". He would smile and say "Good" and walk away.
I was probably in high school when Ken started his practice of Medicine but many years later, it was never below him to ask me "What do you think?". That is the hallmark of a true physician.
My last memory of Ken is when he came walking toward me in the Watkin's Clinic B waving some papers about a patient that he wanted me to perform a surgery on. He chastised me for eating in the Physician's area and told me to make sure that the crumbs did not get into the keyboard and ruin it and he would be very unhappy.
I will miss Ken greatly and hopefully, in my practice of Medicine, strive to achieve the high standards he has set.
Megan
November 22, 2009
I am still in terrible shock over the devastating tragedy that has struck the Baughman family. I referred to Dr. Baughman as "boss man". He was the most caring and inspirational physician I had the pleasure to work with. I can remember being terrified of Dr. B when I first started working in clinic with him. A short time later I came to realize what a compassionate, caring, and most of all humorous individual he was. The gift of life he gave to his patients can never be replaced. He would take time out of his busy clinic schedule to help me with my nursing homework. His dry sense of humor would get me through the busiest of days. The last time I saw "boss man" was around 10pm on one of the Shapiro step down units. We sat and talked a few moments about my schooling and his family. I asked him when he was going to slow down, and he replied "for what?" My response was for your wife, family and grandchildren. He then told me Cheryl was out west visiting the kids. As he walked out the door around 11pm I told him to enjoy the warm home cooked meal waiting for him. Dr. Baughman was so well respected by the entire BWH community and will never be fogotten. Heaven must have needed an exceptional cardiologist for him to be taken from us so soon. The Baughman family will remain in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
November 22, 2009
I continue to feel a dull ache, with the realization that Ken Baughman is gone. An empty spot forever. Last year at New Orleans AHA scientific sessions, I was writing a note on my poster. Dr. Baughman walked up behind me and said, "It's too late to change it now." I turned and saw the twinkle in his eye. He was encouraging me then, as he had done many times before, and even up to the week before AHA Orlando. Those memories will live on.
Jim Fett
November 22, 2009
Ken was a great doctor and he will be missed. I'm glad I had him as a doctor .My family is so gracious for what he has done for us. I recently had a heart transplant in April he helped save my life.Thank you Dr Baughman and his family. (Kenneth Morrell and family.)
November 22, 2009
Ken was a great doctor ,cardiologist and above all a great leader in patient care and med admin. He will be sorely missed. All our good thoughts and condolences to Cheryl and family
Lawrence H Cohn Md
BWH
HMS
Jeff Plate
November 22, 2009
It was always so good to see Dr. Baughman. His kindness and his concern were so clear -- you always felt that you had his complete attention.
Thank you, Dr. Baughman, for all your help.
Richard Hoffecker
November 22, 2009
Even after 45 years, periodically I ask myself, "I wonder whatever happened to..........". Kenny was one of them. I knew he was destined to do great things. I had the privilege of knowing him. My thoughts are with the family.
Leslie Wilcott-Henrie
November 22, 2009
Like so many others, my family and I are devastated to learn of Dr. Baughman's sudden death. Three years ago, my mother Suzi Jackson was rushed to the Brigham in congestive heart failure, needing a mitral valve repair, and compromised by other health complications. Somehow (and we marvel over this to this day), we got the lucky straw and Dr. Baughman as her cardiologist. She was a complicated case, and Dr. Baughman reminded me of a dog with a bone, as he did not rest until he had sorted out her entire medical situation, bringing in heads of departments from all over the Brigham to work through her case. He knew that my sister and I were there 24/7 advocating for our very ill mother, stopping him in the hallway with followup questions and keeping a book filled with notes. He referred to us as "the girls" and told my mom we were taking care of business, treating all of us with great respect and patience in an overwhelming time. His daily visits brightened her day like no other, and her crush on him was endearing to see. We will never forget the time when she was strong enough to sit up on the side of the bed; he came in, sat down next to her and told her with a twinkle in his eye to "move on over". She marveled again and again over his manner with her, and we all agreed that he was a true gentleman - the consummate professional, the dryest wit ever, who took great care with everyone who crossed his path.
Two months ago, my mother had to have the valve replaced, and again, Dr. Baughman was there every step of the way. When discussing the risks of surgery for someone in her state of health, he was unsparing. He laid out in the clearest terms possible the pros and the cons of the surgery, and I can never explain how grateful I was for that. I have never heard a doctor be so honest and so thorough, and we were all able to think of the consequences of the decision fully informed and aware of what she would be facing. When I joined my mother and sister in the exam room at this appointment and greeted him as "the esteemed Dr. Baughman", he told me with the same twinkle in his eye how much he had missed my notebook.
I am writing this weeping because I know Dr. Baughman gave my mother years back on her life. He was her doctor, advocate and friend. She knew she was in the best place, in the best hands, and so did we. He gave us all faith in medicine.
My deepest condolences to the Baughman family. I cannot imagine your grief; we knew him solely as a physician and his impact on us was powerful. We feel incredibly lucky to have known him.
Leslie Wilcott-Henrie
November 22, 2009
Like so many others, my family and I are devastated to learn of Dr. Baughman's sudden death. Three years ago, my mother Suzi Jackson was rushed to the Brigham in congestive heart failure, needing a mitral valve repair, and compromised by other health complications. Somehow (and we marvel over this to this day), we got the lucky straw and Dr. Baughman as her cardiologist. She was a complicated case, and Dr. Baughman reminded me of a dog with a bone, as he did not rest until he had sorted out her entire medical situation, bringing in heads of departments from all over the Brigham to work through her case. He knew that my sister and I were there 24/7 advocating for our very ill mother, ambushing him in the hallway with followup questions and keeping a book filled with notes. He referred to us as "the girls" and told my mom we were taking care of business, treating all of us with great respect and patience in an overwhelming time. His daily visits brightened her day like no other, and her crush on him was endearing to see. We will never forget the time when she was strong enough to sit up on the side of the bed; he came in, sat down next to her and told her with a twinkle in his eye to "move on over". She marveled again and again over his manner with her, and we all agreed that he was a true gentleman - the consummate professional, the dryest wit ever, who took great care with everyone who crossed his path.
Two months ago, my mother had to have the valve replaced, and again, Dr. Baughman was there every step of the way. When discussing the risks of surgery for someone in her state of health, he was unsparing. He laid out in the clearest terms possible the pros and the cons of the surgery, and I can never explain how grateful I was for that. I have never heard a doctor be so honest and so thorough, and we were all able to think of the consequences of the decision fully informed and aware of what she would be facing. When I joined my mother and sister in the exam room at this appointment and greeted him as "the esteemed Dr. Baughman", he told me with the same twinkle in his eye how much he had missed my notebook.
I am writing this weeping because I know Dr. Baughman gave my mother years back on her life. He was her doctor, advocate and friend. She knew she was in the best place, in the best hands, and so did we. He gave us all faith in medicine.
My deepest condolences to the Baughman family. I cannot imagine your grief; we knew him solely as a physician and his impact on us was powerful. We feel incredibly lucky to have known him.
Jessica
November 21, 2009
Thank you Dr. Baughman, you were an amazing doctor and we met you while my husband is waiting for a heart transplant. You will definatly be missed by all who knew you and all the lives you touched. To the family- You are in my thoughts and prayers.
November 21, 2009
Dear Cheryl
There can be no words of comfort right now--Ken will always be with all of us--and also with you.
Diane and Lew Becker (JHH 1959-present)
American Prayer
I give you one thought to keep -
I am with you still - I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
When you awake in the morning's hush
I am the swift, uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not think of me as gone -
I am with you still - in each new dawn.
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Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Kenneth Baughman's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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