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Thomas Wachtel Obituary
Phoenix - Thomas L. Wachtel, MD, passed away on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in his home.
Dr. Wachtel was born on July 25, 1938, in Mansfield, Ohio. He received degrees from Case Western Reserve University, his medical degree from Saint Louis University, and his masters in medical management from Tulane University.
For more than 30 years, he was a senior trauma surgeon and medical director of trauma centers in San Diego (UCSD & Sharp), Denver, Phoenix, and Scottsdale. He has held prestigious leadership positions at medical organizations including the American Burn Association and the American Surgical Association. Dr. Wachtel was a Clinical Associate Professor of Surgery at the University of Arizona, and a retired Captain (USN) who served two tours in Vietnam and spent a total of 37 years in the service. He was also a writer who published two novels, Melt My Wings and Vietnam, I Love You, 22 chapters in medical books, and more than 165 published papers on trauma, burns, nutrition, and surgical education.
In 2008, Dr. Wachtel was in a car crash which left him a quadriplegic, but he retained his wit and a dedication to the family members around him.
He is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn; three children, John Wachtel DMD, David Wachtel and Julianne Wachtel-Bosch; three brothers (James, John, and Edward); and ten grandchildren.
Relatives and friends will be celebrating Dr. Wachtel's life on Saturday, March 17 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Arizona Spinal Cord Injury Association.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Wachtel
Kim McCahan Batson
March 9, 2025
Our families were friends at Fort Rucker, Alabama, when both fathers were medical professionals at USAARL. My father was also a Vietnam vet, as well as a professional vet (G. R. "Chap" McCahan, Jr. DVM). They authored some papers that one can find in pub med. Mrs. Wachtel taught me to bake bread. I remember when Julianne was born. We visited Dr. Wachtel´s parents in Ohio. Stayed in their cozy farmhouse. Drank water from the spring house. Sweet, sweet memories.
Kim McCahan Batson
February 6, 2021
I am running down memory lane and saw this notice. My father, Chap McCahan, was a colleague of Dr. Wachtel's at Ft. Rucker at USAARL in the late 60's and early 70's. They were co-authors on papers (my dad was the veterinarian in the unit). Our families became close friends. We visited his parents' home in Ohio (will never forget the spring house), I baked bread and biscuits using Mrs. Wachtel's recipe, and babysat for the children (I was a teenager). I have very fond memories of this family and wish you the best.
Bob Newton
October 18, 2019
I just read the obituary for Dr. Wachtel. Shocked and saddened to read of Dr. Wachtel's passing. I met both Dr. and Ms. Wachtel in 1982 when I was one of two hockey coaches for their son David when they resided in San Diego. I remember the family for their friendship, generosity, and kindness. David was great to coach. I extend my sincere condolences and pray for comfort to come to everyone in the Wachtel family.
October 13, 2019
My. Condolences to Wachtel family He was my scout master in San Diego in San Diego. He gave me the great advice when I was stuck in rut and not advance in scouting about effort and not settling. For second because of his advice I did get Eagle Scout. But it help achieve more in all aspect in life. He will be miss mike Felix
Michael Felix
October 13, 2019
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
October 13, 2019
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Lisa Mead
March 17, 2018
Dr. Wachtel was a wonderful man and excellent leader of our Trauma program at SHC. I was honored to work with him and am saddened that he has left the material plane. May he surround us all with his courage, strength and love for all.
Thomas and Jennifer Ford
March 17, 2018
It was an honor to know and love you. You have made a difference in this world and Thomas and I will miss you. God bless you, Thomas and Jennifer Ford
March 15, 2018
Tom was an inspiration to me as a SLU Medical classmate and his life in Medicine allowed him to continue that leadership role in surgery, academia, and, most importantly, at the operating table and patient bedside. The class of '56 has lost a great one.
Jim Conaty
The Arizona Spinal Cord Injury Association
March 13, 2018
Our heartfelt condolences to the Wachtel family.
Tom Sparks
March 12, 2018
To Jim John and Eddie: I remember Tom and all of you brothers as well as your parents from your high school time in Monroeville. I am sorry to hear of your loss, but Tom led a full life and I'm sure will be missed by countless friends and associates.
Bernald Porter
March 11, 2018
May the many memories he helped create find root in your heart and bring special recollection to your mind as you both mourn and celebrate his wonderful life... and may God bless you as you deal with his passing.
Garnett Family
March 10, 2018
Such a wonderful man! Tom's compassionate caring for patients and their families, his mentoring of generations of interns, and his humor and wisdom are legendary. But above all his courage in facing challenges and his love of family, faith, and country, are simply inspiring. God Bless you Tom, you are loved!
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