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Daniel Heller Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Daniel Heller
Michele
September 13, 2016
As a first-time mother I learned an enormous amount from Dr. Dan. He was only our daughter's pediatrician for a short while until we moved to the suburbs- but I've thought of him fondly through the years. When giving me the green light for baby's first solids, he asked "So what are you going to feed her?" Prepared by my parenting books, I confidently said "Rice cereal," and he replied "That's right, oatmeal!" My eldest is now 13, and I still think of him if I cut through the baby food aisle. He made me feel confident as I navigated the first year of parenthood, helped me understand that babies are resilient, and sometimes, remember that the cavemen had it right. He spoke so lovingly of his own children. My daughter had an amazing bond with him- she'd gaze intently at him- as a newborn. The propeller may have interested her but I always felt she could understand him. I Googled to find a photo to show my daughter her first doctor. I was sad to learn tonight of his untimely passing. To his family, please know that your beloved Dad and husband made an extraordinary impact, even on those ordinary days. May his memory be a blessing.
CC Chang
December 10, 2004
I was shocked when I learned the news. Even it has been a whie. It is still hard for me to get over it. Every time now when I stop by one Brookline place, I always think of Dr. Heller and it is always a sentimental moment.
As a new parent, always feel nervous about baby's condition. My kid's story may be just an ordinary story. But an unordinary man took good care of her and her parent.
Our little one was vomitting the formula constantly in first week. It made I and my wife extremely uneasy. I called Dr. Heller for emergency assitance. Fisrt, it was Nacy answering the phone. I don't know why, I just feeled kind of conforted because I sensed something about caring, Then Dr. Heller spoked to me. Based on my description, he diagnosed it was not serious situation and told us observing baby's urine condition and met him next day.
When we met him next day. He quicklily exmained the little one and verified she is fine. Then he spent a lot time giving us fundamental knowledge of physiology of baby. He draw some graph to demonstrating why baby so easy to vomit. Fortunately, I still kept the graph.
Not only he took care of baby, but also he "took good care " of parent as well. Because comfortable parent will take good care of child.
And I never forget, some time I forgot brought diaper and Dr, Heller made his own diaper for our little one.
And I never forget, he asked us where we are from. When the baby still carying, he comforted baby and said Taiwanese "mon how", which mean don't cry. It concluded a nervous visit a comforting trip.
At the moment I told my wife. Dr,Heller was some guy sent by god to guard the kids.
Although God had summoned him, and we never know the reason why. Dr. Heller still lives in our mind forever.
When the little one grow up, I will tell her how fortunate she was because of Dr.Heller.
God bless Dr, Heller and his great family.
Tracy M
December 6, 2004
When I was about 6 months pregnant, a friend told me about a wonderful group of Pediatricians in Brookline. I immediately singed up for the information session the following month hosted by Dr. Heller and some of the other staff members. I walked in and immediately noticed the infamous hat.
I once read somewhere that in the year 1970, 50 books were published about child care. Last year alone, it said that approximately 700 were published. Pregnant women are bombarded with information about how to raise their newborn child. Like many expectant mothers, I was extremely overwhelmed by all of the information out there. Luckily, I met Dr. Heller who reminded me that using common sense and trusting your instincts are the most powerful tools you have in raising a child.
I've never trusted myself more in anything else.
Thank you Dr. Heller.
John Sherman
December 5, 2004
Dan Heller, MD
If you have a minute, I would like to tell you about Dan Heller, a good friend of mine, who died unexpectedly in his sleep night at the age of 60. Dan was also our pediatrician, and was so unique I can’t let him go without saying something.
I first met Dan more than 25 years ago at our first visit to him with Julie, at age 3. He came out wearing a locomotive engineer's hat.
During the stethoscope exam, he decided that he needed the assistance of his nurse, and called for her in a pretty fair Jack Benny imitation. He then reached in his desk and pulled out a nurse puppet, to whom he talked for a while, and then attached to the scope. This performance put Julie at great ease, but made me ask Barbara afterwards whether she had checked to see whether Dan had actually gone to medical school. I continued to ask this question for the next 25 years as Dan started to wear a propeller cap on all occasions, even though he had Columbia undergraduate and NYU medical school diplomas on his wall and ran the most popular pediatric clinic in this area. I took some comfort in the fact that his wife, Nancy, was a smart lawyer grounded in reality, and knew a lot about medicine. Finally, the Ladies Home Journal named him as the best pediatrician in the US in 2002, and since my kids were grown up, I stopped worrying.
Dan hated pomposity, refused to take himself seriously, and preferred dealing with kids instead of adults. He knew that kids were more prone to laugh at his jokes, which were closer in spirit to Mel Brooks than Woody Allen. Despite my misgivings, he saw our kids through the two stages of parenthood/medical angst. The first stage lasts for about a year, when the kid is still under warranty, so to speak, and you think of the doctor as the manufacturer. The second, after the warranty expires, lasts until college, at which point Dan formally fired our kids as patients. In between, he got us through the ususal crises, including a scary one with Stephanie when she rolled off a sofa and hit her head a hard wood floor at the age of three, causing her eyes to roll back in her head. Yuk.
Dan and Nancy met when they were at school in NYC in the late 1960s during a period of great unrest. Nancy independently became one of Barbara's closest friends. Nancy was on the School Committee in Brookline, and Barbara ran her campaigns. She gave Barbara a good luck double wishbone pin which she wears in times of stress and uncertainty (including Red Sox games and long international flights, but unfortunately not during the last Presidential Election).
Dan had a passionate, serious side and was capable of expressing effective anger at the right targets, such as insurance companies whose practices have destroyed the doctor-patient relationship and force women with caesarians to leave the hospital in days after the operation.
Dan was on the faculty of the Mass General, which once hosted a breakfast wtih Alan Dershowitz, the Harvard Law Professor who loves to be quoted on TV. Dershowitz was introduced to the faculty, and spotted Dan with his propeller cap. Dershowitz walked up to him, and said, "You know, my experience is that a man who chooses to look so strange in such august company is either a lunatic or exceptionally gifted."
My last conversation with Dan this Summer was over the amazing power of young children to learn new languages. We were having a party at our house with lots of Spanish speaking people (dance and music friends of Stephanie). He was holding forth about how absurd it is that US parents don't force kids to learn and speak other languages at an earlier age. Dan spoke Spanish, albeit a pronounced nasal, New York accent.
The last time I saw him was when I was walking with Stephanie away from our polling place last week, after voting. Dan drove by on his bicycle, wearing a helmet that had not only a propeller, but two small American flags. Stephanie and I both saluted, and collapsed into hysterics as he passed.
It's a cliche, but the world now seems much smaller and duller without Dan around.
Thanks for listening.
John
Elaine Budinoff Kelley
December 4, 2004
Dear Mrs. Heller and Family,
I am filled with shock and sadness to hear of the sudden passing of Dr. Heller. I first brought my two children Ben and Leslie (now 27 & 24) to Centre Pediatrics when it was indeed on Centre Street. The office still clearly renains in my mind; large, with a great. warm, colorful waiting room, just like Dr. Heller's personality. I particularly remember when I told him that I was a remedial reading teacher and he said, "that's what my mother did".
We all had complete trust in him and all looked forward to the children's visits. As a new mother, I felt secure and listened to. His humor was the greatest tonic of all. We never left a visit without feeling cheered up in general about life. My children would still be seen by the beloved Dr. Heller if
possible. The definition of the word "pediatrician" eventually had to be adhered to. A loss for us.
Our deepest, most sincere and heartfelt sympathy is extended to Mrs. Heller and children.
Elaine, Richard, Benjamin and Leslie Kelley (Newton)
Deb McKinnon
December 3, 2004
I first saw the shadow of the hat with the propeller thru the cubicle curtain of my hospital bed after the c-section delivery of my daughter in 1992. How special I felt when he kissed my newborn baby's cheek. Dr. Heller was also my now 27 year old step-daughter's pediatrician.
The first entry he wrote in her blue book is a note to go out and buy a fire extinguisher. He gave sound, practical everyday advice you could use and understood immediately. I remember when he'd tell me that she didn't have an ear infection - "God put their ears of the side of their head so they'd have something to play with" or never put anything smaller than an elbow in your ear."
A few years ago my daugher had to draw four people into boxes for school "showing God's love" and she put Dr. Heller in one of the boxes. When she presented it during our annual well visit (where I often felt like an observer as my mostly shy child would talk, laugh and answer any questions he'd ask)Dr. Heller took the sheet of paper and walked all over the office with it - showing everyone he could. My daughter was so proud. He told us each year as we returned that when he trained the residents he'd show them the sheet of paper and tell them "getting this paper is worth more than any degree you could get from Harvard" and "this is what it's all about."
We were late for Kelly's 12 year well visit for her November 9th birthday this year and were due to see Dr. Heller in January. How sad we are we won't get to laugh with him one more time.
Our love and sympathy to Dr. Heller's family. Rest in Peace Dr. Heller
When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure - Deb, Jim, Kelly (12) and Kara (27) McKinnon
Mary Loden
December 3, 2004
Dear Nancy and Family-
Our family is just heartbroken at the loss of our beloved "Dr. Dan". For 11 years, Dr. Heller was a trusted partner in raising our three sons. In a world of "managed care", he still provided "old fashioned" care, along with a sense of humor and common sense. He was reassuring to parents and had a great way with children. We will miss him greatly, he was truly one-of-a-kind.
Mary and Tom Loden
Gregory, Alex and Nicky
Sue Howard
December 3, 2004
On behalf of the myself and Julia, Theo and Preston Taylor (and their parents Sue Sheats and Ike Taylor who are no doubt greeting our beloved Dr. Heller in his propeller hat at the pearlie gates) please accept our heartfelt sympathy to all of Dan Heller's family, friends and colleagues. He was a gem.
Elizabeth Eagan-Bengston
December 2, 2004
Dear Heller Family, We are so deeply saddenned by the loss of Dan. He was our pediatrician for 21 yrs.I met him in 1983 at the BIH. I had my new kiddie in my arms and I looked up to see this man in a large cowboy hat on with boots to match.He introduced himself as Dan Heller. We left the Boston area 13 yrs ago but could never leave Dan. We too drove the hr just to have him for our kids' doctor. I am a nurse and have yet to find a physician that could compare with Dan's extraordinary patient care approach. After our annual visit with the 3 kids together in his office, the ride home was always spent reliving the visit with him, the jokes, the talking fish, the questions on "what do you want to be when you grow up"? We are at a loss, as Dan's death is a loss to all of us and to the medical profession.Our deepest sympathy.
Matty, Timmy, Alexandra, Robert and Elizabeth Bengston
carla and george lepke
December 1, 2004
To Dr. Heller's family
There will never be an doctor as caring and knowledgable as Dr. Dan. We have known him for the last 21 years and he has taken care of my premature children until now. Erik would never have survived if it hadn't been for Dr. Dan. Kirk and Brianna love him too. He will be greatly missed-a wonderful man. All our love Carla, George, Erik, Kirk, and Brianna
Jodi Ephraim
November 30, 2004
Nancy- It is hard to describe the loss that our family feels. Dr. Heller has been a part of our lives for the past 16 years. For the past 12 years we have travelled from Sharon to see him. He was so caring and my three children loved him and his crazy antics. Well visits were especially fun. I cannot tell you how sorry we are. We truly loved him.
Shelly I
November 30, 2004
I want to send my condolences to the Heller Family. I have known Dr. Heller since 1988 when my niece became his patient and he just sort of grew on the family. He has been my son's pediatrician for the last 10 years and I was happy to call on him with any questions that I had. He was always willing to take the call and answer any of the questions no matter how trivial them might have been. I am happy that I did get to seem him for my son's yearly appointment last October. I will miss the hats, as well as the conferences before the appointment when he would ask your child questions and peak their interest in school, sports and even bicycle safety. You will always be remembered as my son's favorite doctor. I am happy that my son and family had the opportunity to know the "doctor with the many hats."
Helen, Andrew & Matthew Fei
November 29, 2004
Dr. Heller was a remarkable doctor! I remembered Andrew's first appointment with Dr. Heller as if it was yesterday. He walked in wearing this colorful baseball cap with a propeller on top, shorts with suspenders, and white socks with ankle weights. Being a first-time mom, I was so nervous, and wasn't sure what to think, but the way he picked up my few month old baby, held him and talked to him was so reassuring. He immediately put me at ease and I remembered thinking - he's a real pro, and not some quack.
Immediately, as if he read my mind, he asked me how do you say crazy in Chinese. I laughed and responded by telling him "Chi Seen".
From that visit on, he always referred to himself as the "Chi Seen doctor" everytime Andrew (4 yrs old) and Matthew (2 yrs old) saw him.
We will miss him dearly and will always remember our caring and crazy doctor.
BRUCE DRUCKER
November 29, 2004
IS THERE A GREATER LEGACY WE CAN LEAVE BEHIND THAN THE KNOWLEDGE OF KNOWING WE MADE A DIFFERENCE?
DR HELLER WAS BORN TO CARE FOR CHILDREN. HE LOVED HIS WORK, HE LOVED HIS CHARGES. HE FOUND SOMETHING UNIQUE, CENTRAL IN EVERY CHILD'S PERSONALITY. HE DIDN'T SIMPLY TREAT MY TWO GIRLS HE HELPED THEM UNDERSTAND SO MUCH OF LIFE'S JOURNEY. THINGS WE AS PARENTS SIMPLY COULD NOT.
I'M GRATEFUL I ATTENDED MY DAUGHTER'S LAST VIST WITH DAN SOME MONTHS AGO. GRATEFUL I SHOOK HIS HAND AND SAID THANK YOU THAT DAY.
MY FAMILIES DEEPEST SYMPATHIES GO OUT TO THE HELLER FAMILY.
Barbie, Sean and Charlie (11mos) Higgins
November 27, 2004
We first met Dr. Heller shortly after our son was born last year. He was doing rounds at BW and came in on my last day at the hospital. I was in a lot of pain and completely in shock with the new "no sleep" nursing experience. I was feeling weak and overwhelmed. It was about 9am in the morning and my husband and I were sleeping for what seemed like only a few minutes since the last feeding. I felt this gentle bump at the foot of my bed and woke up. There he was sitting at the foot of my bed with a big smile. Dressed in white shorts (it was Winter!) black socks and a crazy looking cap on his head. He just started talking and talking. He didn't really wait for us to wake up. I had never met him before so was instantly captivated and thinking, "I don't know who this is but I hope he stays!". There were times when I wasn't sure what he was talking about..something about hunting for food during the cavemen years..but it didn't matter. We were mezmorized. During my entire week in the hospital not a single person made that type of connection with me or made me smile like Dr. Heller did that morning. We couldn't believe his energy. It was as if he was reading my mind. He sat there and talked and talked until the fear and exhaustion subsided in my face. After he left I no longer worried about going home. I was energized and ready! He became part of Charlie's birth story even though he saw us five days later for about a half hour. He made such an impact on us. He offered such clear and sound advice to us that morning. Since then I had always referred to him as the little angel that came to see us in the hospital. I saw him a couple days after coming home from the hospital and I made a point to tell him how much I appreciated his visit in the hospital and how lucky I felt to have been blessed with his visit. I'm so glad that we didn't wait to let him know how much we appreciated him. Our condolences to the Heller family and to the staff at Centre Peds.
Andrea McCarthy
November 24, 2004
We are shocked and saddened to learn of Dr. Heller's death. Our prayers go out to the Heller family as well as all of those at Centre Pediatrics. Dr. Heller was a part of our family for the last nineteen years and we can't imagine what it will be like without him. Our children ages 19,6,3 and 1 all love him. Because of Dr. Heller they loved their trips to the doctor. Two years ago we moved from West Roxbury (5 minutes away) to Medway (1 hour away). Lots of people thought we were crazy to continue to drive to Brookline to our pediatrician. We would reply "you don't know Dr. Heller, we would be crazy to leave such a wonderful, knowledgeable pediatrician." My family will surely miss him, no one can ever replace him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless.
Andrea and John McCarthy
Matthew, Devin, Rory and Declan
Medway, MA
Carolyn Loucas
November 23, 2004
Dear Heller Family,
Tom, Lindsey, Lydia and I are so sorry for your loss. We absolutely LOVED Dr. Heller. He was clearly a giant in his profession, and was able to dispense medical and behavioral advice in such a unique way. He clung to the "old fashioned" ways of direct telephone communication with parents--how unusual to call the office and be put right through! He will always live on in our family history, especailly his food flash cards, and the Harvard and Yale college applications with absolutely NO question inquiring about potty training. Pediatrics has suffered a great loss, but we know his spirit will live on through the wonderful staff at Centre Pediatrics.
With much love and sympathy,
Carolyn Loucas
Michele Rios
November 23, 2004
Our Dr. Heller truly wore many hats... he was our physician, our teacher, our storyteller, our comedian... and our friend.
Now we look back over nineteen years of trips to Dr. Heller (a.k.a. well child visits)and they really were trips... Each year he knew exactly where Michael was in his life - he would ask those timely questions, he would weave a tale, he would make us laugh, and through it all he would share his wisdom. We were a captive audience. My husband, son, and I would each leave with lollipops and stickers in hand, and silly smiles on our faces.
When the situations were more serious, he would transform - his confident steadiness and true professionalism would prevail, and to worried parents- his word was gold.
By no standards was he an ordinary man - he was extraordinary in all ways. His connection to youth was magical. We know with time our overwhelming sadness will subside... those "trips" to him will read in our memories like a treasured children's book, each visit a different chapter. We will revisit them many times over, and inevitably, those smiles will return to our faces...
To the Heller family we send our love - and our gratitude - for helping to make him the man he was, and then for sharing him with us...
The Rios family
Laura Biermann
November 22, 2004
Dear Nancy and Family,
Words are inadequate to express my sorrow in learning of Dan's passing. I had the pleasure of working with him at B.I. for the last 15 years. I also experienced his kindness toward a worried parent when he looked after my children. Dan was a treasure, and he will be missed. What a gift that whenever I think of him, I can't help but smile. You are all in my thoughts.
Sharon Heasley
November 21, 2004
Dear Nancy and kids,
I will never forget the day I met Dr. Dan...It was my job interview and he was much too busy to have time for me...his patients came first then and NOW! That was in 1979 and I'm still working there today doing what I love and watching Dr. Dan doing what he loved best. Somewhere in that great behond he's still doing that. He loved TEACHING Mom's, Dads, students, kids and anyone else who'd listen how to do the best one can for you and your family in whatever works best for you and your immediate situation. He didn't sugercoat anything, but said what needed saying even though it wasn't always what one wanted to hear. May you rest in peace 'PETER PAN' (even though resting wasn't one of your strong suits). My family and I will remember you and yours always...Love, Sharon
Gilda McGonagle
November 18, 2004
Our heartfelt condolences to the Heller Family. We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our beloved Dr Heller. The entire family would look forward to our yearly physicals during Christmas vacation - a tradition we have enjoyed for many years. We would, all of us, sit in Dr Heller's office to be entertained by his quips, spellbound by his magical connection to children and parents both - to experience his wonderful love of life and to, for one half hour, hitch our wagon to his star. We are desolate at being without him this December and will hold him dear forever. God bless you Dr Heller. We love you and we miss you.
Victoria Kam
November 18, 2004
Our family love Dr. Heller. He was my children Alexander and Erica Yee's doctor. He was a wonderful doctor. He loved and cared about my children like they were his own.
A few months ago when my son's school principal would not allow my son to continue his summer school program (due to my son's seizure), Dr. Heller was willing to talk to the principal (without me asking him, because I know how busy he was), and convinced the principal to let my son go back to school. He fought for my son every step of the way to get the best medical care for him. My family will always be grateful to Dr. Heller. We will miss him.
Now I know there will be an angel doctor in heaven watching over my children that love to wear funny hats.
Matthew Paley
November 18, 2004
To the family of Dr. Heller, my most sincere condolences. I have been going to Dr. Heller since I was born, and he has always been the best doctor I could ever hope to have. I am now a healthy 21 year old, but that is thanks to him. I was born with a dislocated hip, and he was the one who discovered it and set the wheels in motion to get it fixed. He was also one of the biggest role models and influences in my own decision to become a doctor and go into pediatrics. I will never forget him and his quirky sense of humor, and how he identified with his patients. If I can be half the doctor that he was, I know I will be just fine. My condolences once again to his family, and I wish you all the best in this difficult time.
KIM GROVER
November 18, 2004
THANK YOU DR HELLER FOR BEING A GREAT BOSS,GREAT FRIEND AND A GREAT ROLE MODEL FOR ALL OF US AT CENTRE PEDS THE PLACE WILL NEVER BE THE SAME WITHOUT YOU. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING. I WILL MISS YOU VERY MUCH AND MISS OUR TALKS THAT WE ALWAYS HAD. I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU. MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
LOVE ALWAYS,
KIM AND THE GIRLS FROM CENTRE PEDS.
Dee Dee Sullivan
November 17, 2004
I worked for Dr. Heller for 2 years, and he always made me laugh. I thought his hat was the funniest thing. His patients and their parents were clearly fond of him, as were his employees and colleagues.
I will never forget after the birth of my first child, Dr. Heller was rounding that day and stopped by my hospital room to meet the baby, and to teach me the "football hold." He met my family and actually later thanked me for the opportunity to meet my baby and family.
I was deeply saddened to learn of his death. He will be greatly missed.
My deepest condolences to Nancy and the children.
Marco Thompson
November 17, 2004
Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your loved one. Dr. Heller was my doctor all my life and I really enjoyed visiting him throughout the years. For as long as I can remember I've never been afraid of doctors as many young children are. Could it have been his silly propeller hat, his jokes, his shorts in the dead of winter? Probably so... as I was never anxious. He not only made me laugh, but gave me great advice on how to seize any opportunity that came my way. I began college last September and am saddened that he and I will not discuss the outcome of my first year. I will honor him by remembering all that he has taught me.
Repectfully,
Marco A.A.Thompson
age 19
Jennifer LoConte
November 16, 2004
When my husband and I were shopping around for a peditrician for our daughter to be, Dr. Heller impressed us so much that we immediately knew he was it! Julia is now only 3 months and had only been to 2 visits w/ him. As I read some of the other entries, I wish he would have been her doctor for years to come. He was witty, intelligent and really cared about his patients. At least I had the opportunity to have had him be her doctor, if only for a short time.
Katherine Atchinson
November 16, 2004
I am so sorry for your loss. Dr. Heller was a truly wonderful man and an amazing doctor. He will be truly missed. I had a terrible fear of shots and he could always make me smile. He made a visit to the doctor enjoyable. I always looked forward to seeing him and whatever funny hat he might be wearing that day. I was very upset to have to leave him when I got to old to go to a pediatrician, but he made it clear that I could turn to him for anything. He was an incredible doctor and man.
Lisa P.
November 16, 2004
I am so sorry for your loss. Dr. Heller was a wonderful man and physician. I was once a very sick little girl,but thanks to Dr. Heller I am now a healthy 28 year old woman. I will always remember how he made me giggle when he called me "pumpkinella".
Nancy Bucey
November 16, 2004
I remember being pregnant going to the open house at Centre Peds and thinking how funny and at ease Dr. Heller was. I liked him immediately.
My first child, Emma, was born with bilateral club feet. Being a first time mom and not knowing a lot about club feet, I was very nervous and neurotic about the whole situation. Dr. Heller always reassured me that my daugheter would be fine. He always said "good thing this kid wasn't born thirty years ago, then you would have something to worry about." He followed-up on her surgeries and progress, sometimes calling me at home, to see how she was doing even when she hadn't been in to see him in some time. He always kept track of her club foot treatment. He affectionatley called her, "my club foot baby".
His club foot baby is now 3 and doing just fine. I will miss his caring manner, bizzare jokes and off the cuff comments. He always made me laugh when I took myself or the situation too seriously. I will always remember with deep appreciation the care and concern he showed for my daughter and son.
My prayers go out to the Heller family and Centre Peds staff at this very difficult time. Our trips to the pediatrician will never be the same, but I will always remember Dr. Heller for his kindness. Thank you Dr. Heller, may you rest in peace.
Sincerley,
Nancy, Rob, Emma & Aidan Bucey
CWN9 Nurses BWH Hospital
November 16, 2004
Our condolescences to the Heller family. Dr Heller's presence will surely be missed. We will all fondly recall seeing him rounding on the newborns, festively dressed, with a joke or two to share with the nurses. Our hope is that his little beanie cap will be preserved as a way to remember a kind and gentle doctor who was able to balance the serious side of medicine and not loose compassion and humor in the process.
Shonna Gaul
November 16, 2004
Dr. Heller was a very caring doctor and friend to my family. I am deeply saddened to hear of his death.
He was our pediatrician from birth through adulthood for both me and my brother
We were always happy to see him whenever we had doctor appointments. He had such a positive demeanor and always wore funny hats and made jokes to ease our fear of shots or anything else. We used to fight over who would get to go into see him first. He always let us take a handful of lollipops from his drawer, not just one or two. What a wonderful man, he will be greatly missed!
With warm regards,
Shonna (Rugo) Gaul
formerly of Stoughton MA
New York, NY
Brigham Nurses
November 15, 2004
We will miss you & your kindness.
Our prayers to the Heller Family
Spicer Family
November 15, 2004
I would like to extend my condolences to the Heller family. I was shocked and saddened to hear that he had passed. Dr. Heller had been my daugher's doctor for the past 6 years. I remember when I first met him that I was left with the impression that he was someone who really loved his job. His humor was unforgetable. He will be surely missed.
William Land
November 15, 2004
Dr. Heller was a remarkable person. We will miss him greatly. He was a dedicated, thoughtful and caring physician. We were fortunate to have him as our pediatrician.
God bless "Propeller Heller!"
With love,
The Land/Seif family
Joanne Winkler
November 15, 2004
I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to the family of Dr. Heller.
I can still remember the day he walked into my hospital room just after my daughter Shonna was born.
Dr.Cohen was supposed to be her pediatrician, but, after meeting Dr.Heller, what can I say.I was hooked on this marvelous, funny and kind hearted man. Dr. Heller took such wonderful care of my daughter Shonna born 8/10/76 and son Steven John 4/17/1979. As you can see, we date way back to the early days with Dr. Heller. My son in fact went to Dr. Heller until he went off to boot camp for the Military. He would not go to anyone else. I have to say it way pretty funny to see them call his name in the waiting room.
He is 6'5". All the little kids
looked up at him as he stood up to go into see the Doctor. We stayed with Dr. Heller even though we had moved away from the area. The ride was always well worth it. My children actully liked going to their appointments. I will also never forget when my daughter was very ill and dehydrated. Dr. Heller met me and my husband at the hosptial and stayed with us until he knew she would be ok. (Which was most of the night)
My prayers and thoughts are with Dr. Heller and his family. My family will never forget him. He was truly one of a kind.
Joanne (Rugo)Winker (Mother)
Shonna (Rugo) Gaul 28 years old
Steven John Rugo 25 years old
Linda and Allen Fagenholz
November 15, 2004
Allen and I were pediatric residents with Dan at MGH and haven't seen him in almost 30 years, but his memory shines brightly. He was always upbeat,amusing and so proud of his new family. At the time we were all newly weds and when Dan's first child, his daughter Marissa, was born he hurried off to see her. He was so excited that he stopped to buy her some flowers. He placed the flowers on the top of his car so he could find the car keys in all his excitement. He then,unknown to him, drove off in a hurry festooning the street with the flowers. He related the story the next day to us all sure he had bought the flowers and couldn't imagine where they were, until the detective in him figured it out.
We are sure his clinical acumen along with his sunny disposition will be missed by all his patients. It must have been fun to grow up in his house and I am sure his now grown children will miss him greatly.
Fondly,
Drs. Linda and Allen Fagenholz
Julianna Coco
November 15, 2004
Dan was the coolest friend's dad ever- good bad jokes, awesome beany, and obvious appreciation and enjoyment of all people, especially youth. We will all miss him greatly. My deepest condolences to the Heller family. Sara, I wish I could have been there with you this weekend.
Kathy Locke
November 15, 2004
Wow! As I sit here with tears in my eyes having just learned of Dr. Heller's passing, a thousand funny moments go through my head. My children are now 15 and 17 and he has been their physician from day 1. I can remember him asking my daughter a few years back if she'd ever slept over a friend's house. My daughter said that she had. To which Heller replied, "Why do they make you sleep "over" it, why don't they invite you inside?" Or in the later years as the kids got older and I would wait in the waiting room while they had their exam and Heller would emerge to the crowded waiting room and say, "Dr. Locke, may I see you in my office?" I'd turn beet red, since I'm not a doctor and go to the office. He'd be having a good chuckle for himself and say, "now all those people in the waiting room are saying, gee, she doesn't look like a doctor!" I'm sure he had no idea the impact he had on so many people. My heartfelt sympathies to Nancy, Marissa, Matthew, Sara and to his 2nd family, the staff of Centre Pediatrics. No one will ever fill his shoes. My family is blessed for having the pleasure of his acquaintance all these years.
Jean Manis
November 15, 2004
Our sons, now almost 16 and 12, saw Dr. Heller until they were 11 and 7 when we moved from Newton to the Seattle area. We have a wealth of warm memories of Dr. Heller including one of his first entries in our oldest son's health record - "very sweet pickle." What a fabulous man, who was so full of life - he will be missed.
The Remsberg Family
November 15, 2004
Dr. Dan Heller epitomized all that is good about the medical profession. For more than 20 years he was a part of the fabric of our lives. From the first “get to know you” prenatal visit in the Centre Street office to the last of each of my two children’s pediatric visits, Dr. Heller was all of stand-up comic funny, caring, calm, reassuring and most importantly an exceptional practitioner of his craft. Unlike some kids who anticipated their doctor’s visits with dread, mine looked forward to their annual visits even knowing that a shot was probably on the agenda. He treated my kids and their concerns with humor and respect. They are saddened at the news of his death. Our last visits several years ago ended with hugs and tears with a man who knew us from nearly the moment of my oldest’s birth through their young adult-hoods. The last thing he said to each of my kids was “Here, take this,” and handed them the office phone number. “You can call me any time, with any question and I will be here to talk to you.” Sometimes you get lucky in life, and our family was, to have had Dr. Dan in ours. Thank you Heller family for sharing him with us. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Diane, Steve, Matt and Kate.
Debra Pereira
November 15, 2004
Mrs. Heller and family,
We are so shocked and sad to hear of the passing of Dr Heller. He has cared for our 3 children for the last 16 years. As a prior nurse at BIDMC and currently at MGH I have seen first hand the love and respect for him as a person and a physician by many,many people. Nurses loved the mix of his being one of the brightest pediatricians in Boston, but he also had the most special bedside manner with children and their parents. We all wanted him to care for our children. I will always remember seeing him walking through the hallways of MGH in his shorts with his brightly colored "helicoptor hat" on top of his head with a group of medical students listening so intently to him that sometimes they would forget to laugh at his joke. He would quickly point that out to them. When my children were miserable and sick just bringing them into his office would bring a smile back to their faces. Dr Heller will never be forgotten by our family. It has been a privilege and a blessing to have known him. Please know you and your family are in our thoughts and our prayers.
Debbie, Doug, Brittany, Matt and Brenna Pereira
Judi Graf
November 14, 2004
Grandmother of Max, Mitchell and Tyler Tewksbury--patients of Dr. Heller. Extending sympathy to all of the Heller family--he will be surely missed.
Brent, Elizabeth, William & John Antony
November 14, 2004
Our son William has been a fan and patient of Dr. Heller's for almost 5 years. Will's first year, in particular, was incredibly difficult due to asthma, hospitalizations and surgeries. As a first time mom, at times I felt like I was "losing it" to panic and worry...but Dr. Heller was always there to care for William and his mom and dad. He always rounded on us in Children's and brought a smile to William's face. His wit, common sense, caring and intelligence were a true gift and a rare find. When we had our second son, John, Dr. Heller celebrated his birth right along side of us...
Rest in peace, you wonderful man.
Lisa Barnes
November 14, 2004
Dr. Heller was my son's pediatrician when he was born until the age of 5 when we relocated to Florida. So many times since I have been here I have said, " I wish we still had Dr. Heller". He was not only the finest of physicians, he was also a very special person. I feel blessed to have known him and grateful for all of his invaluable advice as I faced first time motherhood. My sincere condolences go out to his entire family. I am so deeply sorry for your loss.
Nicole Roberts
November 14, 2004
Dr. Heller always made a visit to the doctor a little less scary, with that twirling hat and his funny jokes. For 20 years he has taken care of our family. He will be deeply missed.
Carole, Emma, Noah, and Michael Sonduck
November 14, 2004
How do you express the myraid of feelings Dr. Heller's loss creates? In addition to his family colleagues and friends the Sonduck's will always have a special place in their hearts for Dr. Dan.
Emma's reflux and Noah's asthma were diagnosed at age two and three respectively thanks to his exceptional diagnostic skills.
One year we accidently met at a restaurant and he addressed the incongruity of context with the children immediately. "Did you know doctors eat in restaurants too?" And Noah's incredulouness when we met at the hospital after some tests were completed; Dr. Dan in shorts, a tee-shirt, and a bicycle helmet. These are but a few memories our family will treasure always.
Thank you Dr. Dan for being a part of our lives. May your family find comfort in each other and in the huge circle of warmth his spirit created while he was with us.
Amy, Dan, Ben & Sarah Litwack
November 14, 2004
To Dr. Heller's family and colleagues at Centre Pediatrics;
We are so saddened to hear of the tragic loss of a most wonderful man and physician. Dr. Heller cared for our 2 children and was a part of our lives for almost 7 years - even after we moved from Boston and had to travel about 3 hours round-trip to see him. When my son was a toddler he wrote a prescription to my mother-in-law declaring the boy did NOT have to eat green vegetables! Since I learned the sad news two days ago I have thought of him and his family almost constantly. If he had this kind of impact on us, (and we must be one of thousands) I can only imagine the loving force he was to his dearest family and friends. What a wonderful legacy to leave behind - the love and best wishes of SO many people who he cared for and kept healthy. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family in this difficult time.
Gerald and Eileen HENG
November 14, 2004
Dear Ms.Nancy Heller,and Family
WE,Eileen and I together with Sharmaine previously from your Neighborhood are terriably saddened by the untimely passing of Daniel,Matt's dear Father and Doctor.Sharmaine was Matt's Bar Mitvah's companion,so we remembered Daniel well,especially when he came to the Events at Brookline High School despite the demands of his Medical Duties.
May He Rest In Eternal Peace as The Holy God Receive Him Home.May the Lord God Continue to Bless You,Yours and your Family.His was a fruitful and useful professional and family life in a great Neighborhood Town of Massachusetts.
Gerald,Eileen and Sharmaine Heng[of Philadelphia]
marie franklin
November 14, 2004
Dr. Dan Heller was a very special man in our daughters lives, and ours, for 20 years. Waking up to the news of his untimely death is very sad for all of us. Our daughters are in college now, but they continued to see Dr. Heller until they turned 21. Why? Because they trusted him, medically and personally. He made going to the doctors fun. His sense of humor will always bring a smile to our faces.
God bless his family!
Marie, Bill, Emily and Anna Kate Franklin, Newton, MA
Diane and Morty Burman
November 14, 2004
Dr. Heller was a very special doctor and we will ever be indebted to him. He was there at a very critical time in our daughter's life and stayed right with us.We loved him and will always remember him. May the good times that you shared as a family be a source of comfort to all of you in the days ahead.
Rebecca Schwartz
November 13, 2004
Dear Nancy and children,
We will miss Dr. Heller very much. He was an important partner to us in keeping our children healthy. My son, David, who is 11 wants you to know that he will really miss Dr. Heller's jokes. We saw Dr. Heller earlier this month and he taught our son Daniel his joke about long division (ripping a paper in half the long way, on which a very long number was written) vs. short division (ripping the paper in half the short way). This will always remain in our minds as a Dr. Heller classic. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Rebecca and Steve Schwartz and family
Amber Azar
November 13, 2004
I have worked at Centre Peds a little over a year now, and noone made me feel more welcome than Dr. Heller. I will miss his good mornings, his silly jokes, and crazy songs. I will always remember him dressed up at Peter Pan for Halloween this year, and singing "I Won't Grow Up". I think that's how he would want to be remembered. We all loved him dearly, and will miss him terribly. Our thoughts are with Nancy and their family at this time.
Peter and Donna Mattimoe
November 13, 2004
Dear Heller Family:
How incredibly sad and shocking to hear of Dr. Heller's passing. We are the parents of 3 girls (Erin, age 7, Bridget, age 5 and Kate, age 3). They were all born in the Spring (April/May) so each year I would take them to see Dr. Heller for their well visit. He always said there weren't many families that he would see 3 altogether, but he would with us; that always made us feel special. The girls adored him and so did their Mom. We would always have a laugh at the end of our visit since he usually gave Mom a kiss, and the girls would tell Dad that Dr. Heller kissed Mom! Our sincerest condolences. He will be missed, but somehow I know he is watching over all of the beautiful children
who were fortunate to call him their pediatrician.
Sincerely,
The Mattimoe Family
Donna Lupatkin
November 13, 2004
Our whole family has feelings of sadness on the loss of Dr. Heller. He has very much been a part of our lives for the past 22 years. His wisdom, common sense, caring and of course humor got us through many a complicated situation. We will miss him and remember him. The Lupatkin Family, Brookline, Ma.
Gaynor Family
November 13, 2004
I feel the deepest sympathies for you and your family. I want you to know, Dr. Heller was, an is, a major person in my life who has helped me grow up into a young adult. Throughout my life, even as a toddler, he was there, rushing to the hospital for me when I was just 8 months old and making sure I was ok after surgery at 12. He dealt with the most serious and uncomfortable issues with that calm, hilarious smile on his face. He was a friend you could depend upon and most importantly, trust. He was among the finest doctors my family has ever known, and he was among the funniest, most intelligent people I have ever met. He was, to me, to my family, a man we never wanted to leave, for his presence, his humor, and his care for each of us was so unrivaled that we could never think of anyone else to call when we got hurt or sick. Dr. Heller was the man I depended upon in a time of need, and he was always there, to smile, to help, and to make sure I was always alright. I thank him and his family for 17 wonderful years of friendship, and to let the Heller family know, he will never be forgotten, not by this patient or by any person he met, for as long as they live.
Daniel Gaynor and the Gaynor Family
Barbara Gargan
November 13, 2004
You will be missed and remembered as a wonderful person and teacher. You gave so much of yourself to us all.
Irwin Freedberg
November 13, 2004
Marissa - all of your colleagues at NYU share the sorrow that you and all of your family are feeling - we pray that the wonderful memories of what your Dad did for all of you and for so many other families will, in due time, replace the tears of today
IMF for the Department of Dermatology at NYU
jacey shumaker
November 13, 2004
To a dear person who has always brought a smile to our faces and throughout your office. You will be deeply missed. The Shumaker Family (Jacey, Tim, Carsen, and Rowan)
CINDY kaplan
November 13, 2004
For twenty four years Dan Heller has been a special part of our family,caring for all three boys. We will always think of him with a smile and a chuckle with his goofy hats and great sense of humor. He was a true professional in all sense of the word. Thank you for all your help and advice over the years!
Ellen & Richard D'Isidoro
November 13, 2004
Dr. Dan Heller was one of a kind. Both of my sons always loved to see him in the office. They would try and guess "What hat would he be wearing today".
We met Dr. Heller 28 years ago when our first son was born. He was a wonderful man and a great doctor.
Carol and Robert Flannery
November 13, 2004
Dear Nancy and Family,
Our deepest condolences to you and how sad we are also at the loss of Dr. Heller. We are grandparents to Daniel O'Donnell (age 4 1/2 now) who just loved Dr. Heller, who was incredible with our "Daniel" and words are at a loss as to how his parents feel. Our prayers, love and peace to you......and our sincerest "thanks" to your Husband and Dad.
Robert and Carol Flannery
Peter Schuster
November 13, 2004
I will always have a smile thinking about the last joke that Dan told.
Jill Goodman
November 13, 2004
Dan--you will be truly missed by our entire family...for twenty-four years you were always there for us, with your fabulous sense of humor and quick wit. Rest in peace (with your Dr. Suess hat?)
Billy Luce
November 13, 2004
I really liked Dr. Heller because he would always make me laugh. I will miss him.
AUDREY BAIZEN
November 13, 2004
WHAT A SPECIAL MAN, WHO HAS TOUCHED MANY LIVES... WE WILL MISS YOU ALWAYS.. AUDREY,MICHAEL,MELISSA & AMANDA BAIZEN
BIANCO FAMILY
November 13, 2004
HEY DOC - I BET YOUR JUST...
SITTIN IN THE MORNING SUN
AT THE DOC OF YOUR BAY
CAN YOU WASH ALL THESE TEARS AWAY...
YOU WILL BE MISSED FOR ALL THE GREAT THINGS YOU HAVE DONE FOR US AS A DOCTOR AS WELL AS A FRIEND
MAY YOU REST IN PIECE WITH YOUR COLORFUL HAT ON - FISHING ROD IN HAND WITH A GREAT BIG ONE ON IT - AND YOUR WONDERFUL SMILE ON YOUR FACE!
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