Albert J. KAHANE

Will always remember Al Kahane, he was the face of Kaiser Health. Sad to see passing of Al, Don Bouchard MD, Clyde Zirbel MD and now, Jim Hepler MD. Thankful for each one who touched many families in Sacramento.

I worked with Dr.Kahane in the operating Room at Kaiser, Morse Ave.for many years. He told me doing surgery was like dancing, and it truly was with him. I knew his moves before he made them. I looked forward to the days he was in the OR and loved every minute of it. It's so hard to believe such a great man is no longer with us. I will never forget him.

Millie,
As Al's soul merged with the source where it came from, we reflect with deep gratitude of our service to the patients under his leadership. He hired me in 1977 and encouraged me to get involved in Quality Assurance of Sacramento TPMG. He came to my retirement party as he has done for so many under his stewardship. His monthly Wednesday staff meetings were lively and subtle humor will be missed. You and we, his associates were all blessed by his company in this journey. Gopal...

Al was a great leader with good political instincts who helped solve problems and improve patient care. He was also a great clinician with a sense of humor. Millie my family's thoughts are with you. I hope to see you June 11th. I hope Al's transition was peaceful.

Al was PIC for PMG when I first came in 1980. That transition from a self directed, sheltered, independent physician's life was a challenge for me and once Al rescued me from myself. He was on the SSVMedcine editorial committee for several years but as usual,focusing on work at hand doesn't allow much personal chat. Any life book has pages that are amazing; but we usually can read only the cover. Al wrote a long book. I would have liked to read more of it with him; to have better know...

I composed this on my I Phone upon hearing of Al's passing (I was in Hawaii at the time, 02/17/2017). This was a message I sent to Dick Baur and Gary Fox:

This sad news finds me on Kauai Hawaii "happy-sad".
Al Kahane hired me (simultaneously with Gary Fox - same day- same time - jointly in his office) in 1980.
Al was funny and efficient from the start of our relationship.
He knew every Henny Youngman joke there was, and scores more of his own - you didn't win...

I remember Dr. Kahane well over my 48 years here at Kaiser Sacramento ER. A great leader, physician and role model. I shall always cherish the memories of Dr. Kahane and the early days at Kaiser.

Dr Kahane was so much more than his amazing accomplishments! He was full of life and very compassionate. He was very kind to my parents Dr Clyde Zirbel and Margaret Zirbel, so inclusive. Blessed to have known him . Our thought are with you Millie.