Ronald Singer M.D.

Ronald Singer M.D., DSC, Robert Bensley Professor, Department of Organismal Biology & Anatomy, at the University of Chicago, died April 17, following a heart attack. Dr. Singer was a world-renowned researcher and teacher. The publication of his research findings from archaeological excavations in South Africa and England significantly advanced knowledge about the evolution of early man. Dr. Singer taught gross anatomy to several generations of medical students over his 40 plus year career, many of whom have had eminent careers in various branches of medicine and biological sciences' research. He also taught in the University of Chicago's prestigious MSTP program. Dr. Singer maintained a global network of associates in his various research fields, held numerous positions in professional organizations, and addressed scientific conferences all over the world. Dr. Singer and his family emigrated to the U.S. from S. Africa in 1962, in large part because his and his wife's active opposition to the policies of the apartheid regime had made life there untenable. Ronald Singer was born August 12, 1924, in Cape Town, South Africa, to Solomon and Sophie Singer, who emigrated to South Africa from Lithuania. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Shirley Singer; children, Hazel Singer (John Griffiths), Eric Singer, Sonia Nyberg (Jim) and Charles Singer (Katie). His grandchildren gave him such pleasure, Jennifer Griffiths Graham Griffiths, Ben Singer, the late Ariel Singer and Marc Singer; his loving brother, Martin Singer, still resides in South Africa. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution in Ronald Singer's name to the Southwest Indian Foundation's Scholarship Fund, an organization he felt very strongly about.