Armin Rhauda

It's a strange thing but I still can't believe Armin is gone. He was so very vivid in life; he added such value to the life of everyone he came in contact with, it's as if he were there on the farm in Pennsylvania, still involved in projects, enjoying his collections, engaged in the community, aware of what is going on in the world, thinking a myriad of thoughts, so full of life and love, particularly of his beloved Patty. I will never forget the first time I met Armin, twenty years ago. ...

I first met Armin at Annie's house in Serene Lakes several years ago. We went for a hike to a lake in the high Sierras. We were enjoying ourselves hugely, when suddenly I fell and gashed my shin on a rock. Armin was the perfect physician; he prevented me from swimming in the lake because, as he put it, "We don't know what's in it." Armin made a powerful impression upon me. He was a truly good man, with a wonderful sense of humor. We will miss him.

My dearest Patty....I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your husband. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

I am deeply grateful and blessed to have known Armin for the time that I did as his colleague. There are many things about life that he taught me. Most of all he taught me, by the example of his life, that the traditions that make up the fabric of our lives should always be in our minds and hearts.

Friend, colleague, roommate. Armin and I met in medical school. We quickly became friends and eventually roommates. He was always able to see the bright side of things and made it easy to get through the tough moments. He was uniquely intelligent, inquisitive and compassionate. Always laughing and smiling. He had such varied interests. He loved to tinker with things and was a perfectionist to say the least. In medical school, he loved driving his VW Bug, tuning it like a fine swiss timepiece....