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John Tolmie Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for John Tolmie
David Morton
March 28, 2025
RADM Tolmie came across my mind this morning out of nowhere. So, I decided to look him up on Google. I was saddened to find his obituary, but I have some great memories of him that go back to our first meeting in February 1984. I first met in Norfolk Virginia preparing for a NATO medical exercise, Teamwork 1984 which took place 236 miles north of the Arctic Circle off the cost of Tromso, Norway. I was at the time the Director of Medical Plans for Supreme Allied Commander, Atlantic and RADM Tolmie was filling in as the Command Surgeon for this exercise. During the exercise A helicopter delivered us to a location on “White Beach” where a beach evacuation station was to be located. It was not there, just a USMarine Corps artillery battery. Imagine their surprise when a two star admiral stepped off the helicopter and the helicopter took off. I thought my career was over at this point! But RADM Tolmie just laughed it off and asked the Marine radioman to call the USS Saipan to let them know they just stranded a two star on the beach. We finally get picked up and taken to the right location and he had a good laugh. He never took himself or his position too seriously. I eventually became the Commanding Officer at the Naval Hospital in 1990 so my career did not sink by that helicopter ride. Later on he gave me a copy of his book but I regretted that I was never able to get an autographed picture of the “EtherBunny”. He Admiral was a great person and certainly had a life well lived. And I was fortunate enough to have some good memories of a small part of his life.
Nancy Seibert
March 17, 2021
John was a wonderful friend for over 50 years!! We will never forget our marvelous times together with John, Joan and family!! All our love from all the Seibert Family to all the Tolmie family!!
Nancy and Darrel Seibert
March 18, 2020
We're remembering a wonderful wonderful friend who was a friend to all!!
We will never forget him!!
TANYA & JIM REED
March 17, 2020
WE MISS YOUR HONOLULU VISITS WHERE WE LAUGHED AND TALKED STORY AT THE HALE KOA HOTEL WITH JOAN, POLLY & REX. THOSE WERE WONDERFUL TIMES. RIP & ALOHA, TANYA & JIM REED
Kathleen Sawada
March 18, 2019
I will keep the warm memories of this most kind mentor in my heart and mind - always. Thank you for setting me on my life's journey - it has been and still is a wonderful life.
Ceri Booth
March 17, 2019
Remembering what a shining example of caring and teaching he was to so many in all aspects of his life. What s blessings to have know him and be in his presence.
April 17, 2015
How I regret that I did not keep in contact with you over the years since our time on the Flag Council and relieving you as the Fleet Surgeon Atlantic Fleet so many years ago. You were a good friend and mentor as well as a true gentleman.Thank you.
Paul T.Kayye M.D.
Rear Admiral, MC ,USNR ret
Marian (Marnie) Hicks
April 16, 2015
I admired John as much as I admired my precious father who recently passed. John and Joan took me under their wings when we first moved to Mooresville and my husband went to Iraq. He was larger than life and he made life larger for everyone he came in contact with. We are better people for having known him.
Judy McGuire
April 11, 2015
I cannot visualize Dr. Tolmie without his brilliant smile. He and his beautiful wife, Joan, are two of a kind - beautiful, friendly, gracious individuals. I am proud to have worked for him as a secretary in the Anesthesia Department of Bowman Gray School of Medicine.
One of my first assignments was to type (on a regular typewriter) the book he co-authored with Dr. Birch.
Melinda Lada
April 7, 2015
My condolences to the family of Dr. Tolmie. He was a fine man, and a model of integrity for the medical students at Wake Forest. His kindness and warmth will always be remembered. Peace and blessings to you.
MaryAnn & John Romeril
April 3, 2015
Probably most friends knew John as an adult but since I'm his cousin and 3 years older my memories include John as a little kid too. Our fathers were brothers- 2 of the 10 children of Duncan and Rachel Tolmie. Our families lived in Toronto back in the '30s and we would get together quite often . Some of my memories centre around the Tolmie farm "Glenholm " near Lindsay where we city kids would have the opportunity to explore that 150 acre farm and its animals . While there we could compete to see who could swing highest on that swing hanging from a tree in the lane . John and I would watch the menfolk as they gathered around the cars and machinery .The women would all be in the house preparing the food and chatting and there would always be freshly baked scones and a meal around the kitchen table. John was such fun !!
And over the years it was always fun to get together and share stories and laughter !
Then we reached the age to move away to pursue education toward a career . John headed to McGill U. in Montreal toward a medical degree .I chose Queen's U. in Kingston and while completing a degree in nursing I met my future husband - John Romeril . Cousin John shared in our special day as a groomsman at our wedding . in the ensuing years
careers and families and travels followed . Then in retirement we have strengthened that special bond with John and Joan . Today , although we are not able to attend the celebration in Mooresville ,we join our hearts and tears and love and laughter with the family and friends in a salute to the memory of a very special person, John Duncan Tolmie!!!
R L Walker
April 3, 2015
I hope it is appropriate to tell you that when Dr. Tolmie--Admiral Tolmie--left the campus for the last time, he got a salute from a retired Marine. Honor is part of his legacy, and that will last till all of time be done.
Jeff Schwartz
April 2, 2015
To Joan and Family: John is at the core of many of my fondest memories, working and enjoying life, in Winston. I still vividly recall his direct, and yet remarkably friendly, talk at employee orientation over 22 years ago, which made me resolve to know this man better - whether I was going to be working with him or not. That turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made. Countless students have John to thank for much of their medical education and I can thank him for much of what I learned about educating medical students and about running a program. The facts that he and you have been such good friends to me and that we shared many good times simply add more to the legend of Tolmie. I and all who were familiar with John share your loss. You can take a full measure of strength and comfort from knowing of the many lives John made better in many ways.
John, Lynn, Christopher, Grayson and Hunter Tolmie
April 2, 2015
Joan, Suzie, Kim and Ian:Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your families during this time of sorrow. John was truly a great man. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and true friend to many. John was a constant learner, but also a constant mentor. I have such fond childhood and adult memories of our families spending holidays and many special weekends together. John always made everyone feel so comfortable and he had that captivating and inviting smile that you just felt safe being around him. We will miss you, but always hold you in our memories and heart.
Mary Arzonico
April 1, 2015
You all are in my thoughts, prayers, and hearts. I will miss John dearly. Memories are a beautiful way to keep a loved one forever with us each day. I send hugs and my love to Joan, Suzie, Kim and Ian, and their families. Love, Mary Arzonico
Fran Boyette
April 1, 2015
Mrs. Tolmie and family,
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of great loss; Dr. Tolmie was a remarkable , delightful and most kind person. We remember him fondly as medical students and also as residents. Such a wonderful caring individual who will be missed by many people. Such a positive impact on so many lives. May God bless you and comfort you in this time of loss. Sincerely, Fran Boyette MD and David Kouri MD
Danny Hooper
April 1, 2015
Mrs. Tolmie and the Tolmie family. My heartfelt condolences to all of you on the loss of Dr. Tolmie. I have fond memories of your family growing up and understand this time of loss. I am glad to hear that everyone was there and know that that was very important. Its tough, but each of you will look back and smile knowing that your support comforted John in the end. Best wishes and thoughts.
April 1, 2015
Dr. Tolmie was a delightful addition to my day. I enjoyed caring for him in the Outpatient Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Robin Tuttle, RN
Stephanie Reid
March 31, 2015
Dear Joan and family, Dr. Tolmie was a wonderful person and I was priviledged to work with him as a resident and faculty member at Wake Forest. The Reid and Theros families send their sincerest condolences. May you find comfort in your fondest memories.
Sincerely, Stephanie Theros Reid
Tim Overby Rapid Response
March 31, 2015
It was an honor and privilege to have met him in the short time I was able to be of service. As I said in his room that day," I appreciate his service to this country and this hospital". My prayers are with you and his family.
Michael Lawless
March 30, 2015
Dear Joan and family,
Sandee and I were saddened to learn of John's passing. Please accept our condolences and know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers. I was never in the OR with John, but shared many hours with him during the eight years that I was in Student Services at the medical center. I'll remember him for his unfailing enthusiasm and upbeat manner. I'm reminded of him each time I use the exercise facility on the E-Floor that he championed so the students could conveniently have a healthy break from studies. He was always excited about ideas that enhanced student learning or well-being. We know that you find great comfort in his well-lived life. Blessings, Mike and Sandee
Nancy and Darrel Seibert
March 30, 2015
Dear Joan, Susie,Kim, and Ian,
We have all lost a man that was one in a million!!! All of the Seibert family were so lucky to have known and enjoyed his wonderful spirit for so many years! We remember staying in your warm welcoming home with you all in Winston Salem for the Final Four March Madness Tournament and how much your Dad loved basketball. Our hearts and our prayers will be with you all in the coming weeks. All our love, Darrel, Nancy, Ned, Dar, and Cristy
March 30, 2015
To the Tolmie Family -
We are very sorry for your loss.
Tricia & Paul Brennesholtz
Atlanta, GA
March 30, 2015
Praying for you and sending you peace. Kathy Pogue Johnson
March 30, 2015
To the Tolmie Family,
Was very sad to hear the news about Admiral Tolmie's passing. His leadership, wit, and dedication to his fellow shipmates made an impact on so many during his service in the Navy Reserve. "Fair Winds and Following Seas" to a great Naval Leader!
Vice Admiral Robin Braun
Chief of Navy Reserve
Randy Crumpler
March 29, 2015
I remember when John would drive his BMW and meet us at Arthur's Cafe' for breakfast. He had removed the seat hardware to lower it so he could get in. Lots of great stories of cars he liked, Navy, and Ian and his buddies staying at the Lake Norman Cottage!! A great memory when he called to invite me to a Tractor Pull. Neither He or I had ever been, we had a great time and stayed till it ended. Fun times. We also stopped and looked at some Vintage cars on the way home...we didn't tell Joan or Brenda of our side trip.
Thanks again For Everything .
Jim Lipford
March 29, 2015
I had the pleasure of serving with Dr. Tolmie during my career in Navy Medicine. There are very few men that have his dedication and compassion for those requiring medical care. I am saddened by his passing and my heartfelt prayers go out to his family. "Fair winds and following seas Admiral Tolmie" Go NAVY!
Ellen Pichey
March 29, 2015
To the Tolmie family,
I was very sad to hear about Dr. Tolmie's passing. I remember his kindness and smile and that his was one of the most understandable accents when I arrived at Bowman Gray in 1977! He teased me for all of medical school about the blank (very nearsighted) look I had given him at the YMCA pool. I did an anesthesiology preceptorship and almost went into anesthesiology because of him. He was a true physician mentor/teacher and is warmly remembered.
March 29, 2015
Dear Kim, Joan, Suzie and Ian -- My heart goes out to all of you on the death of John. Though I did not know him very well I know he took a great interest in all his children's accomplishments. I remember him standing in my living room as we (Kim and I) worked on piano lessons. I will hold all of you close in my heart and prayers as you go through these next difficult days. Sincerely, Cecil Price
Suzie Tolmie
March 29, 2015
Hi, Dad! We miss you so much, and wish you could still be around. It was so special to be with you those last few days of yours, to see your smile and hold your hand. I feel honoured (note Canadian spelling!) to be your daughter and to have felt your love, and returned it, so much, for so many years. We love you!
Bob Williams
March 29, 2015
Dr Tolmie was an inspirational and encouraging leader to us during challenging times. Today, his impact continues worldwide through the lives he influenced.
Know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Michael Olympio
March 28, 2015
Hello Joan and Family,
As a young resident under his tutelage, I most remember Dr. Tolmie's Navy stories, and the succinylcholine-hyperkalemia discovery. What a great man; so friendly and reassuring. He truly set the tone and character of "Bowman Gray Anesthesia" for many many years. We all miss him.
Chuck Harr
March 28, 2015
Rear Admiral Tolmie was an inspiration to those of us who benefited from his leadership as Dean of Students at Wake Forest School of Medicine. His ever present smile, his firm handshake, his common sense advice, and his can do attitude were a constant source of energy and support. Although most of us did not realize it at the time, it was exactly those same attributes which made him such a strong force in the Flag Wardroom of the United States Navy. I will always be indebted to him for his kindness and leadership.
Rear Admiral Chuck Harr
Susan Martin
March 28, 2015
I remember Dr. Tolmie and that big smile! I don't ever think I saw him lose his temper or be short with anyone! I worked with him many years in the NCBH operating room,he will surely be missed! My prayers are with your family!
Karen Blair
March 27, 2015
Dear Tolmies, you were a wonderful family to babysit for and I have many happy memories of your house from the exotic screen and other objects from your time in Guam to the Avanti under the car cover in the garage. Dr. Tolmie leaves a great legacy in his three children and in his grandchildren. Much love to you all, Karen Blair
Pat Petrozza
March 27, 2015
Dear Joan and all your wonderful family, I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. As many have commented, I will most remember john's wonderful smile and encouragement. I was really a scared new faculty member and I always knew I could ask John for advice and receive solid information and hearty encouragement. So much of what made my early experiences at "Bowman Gray" so good revolved around John and his welcoming smile. You are in my prayers. Pat Petrozza MD
Ann Faris
March 27, 2015
As a student nurse anesthetist and later a CRNA, Dr. Tolmie was indeed my "favorite" anesthesiologist to work with! His calm, professional yet personal manner was his credo even under the most demanding of situations. It was indeed a pleasure to know both Dr. Tolmie and and his ever positive loving wife, Joan. I am so very grateful to have had the opportunity to know Dr. Tolmie professionally and personally. Ann Faris, RN, BSN, CCRN.
Stuart Lee
March 27, 2015
I was a resident in neurosurgery at Wake Forest from 1981 through 1988. I remember Dr. Tolmie's enthusiasm, wisdom, and especially his calm demeanor, particularly with very sick patients in the middle of the night. And he was a genuinely "nice guy" as well!
I extend my deepest sympathy to Mrs. Tolmie and family. May God bless you during this time.
Brenda Crumpler
March 27, 2015
Dr. Tolmie - Fair Winds and Following Seas.
In August of 1989 I walked into the medical school for a job interview that went on to change my life. Dr. Tolmie hired me as his secretary. I am convinced I got the job because I was Canadian. He embraced life, was an avid listener, so humble, and took a personal interest in everyone he met and brought a refreshing perspective to the workplace. I will never forget walking into the office on Canada Day July 1st and feeling a bit blue because I had to work that day and out of nowhere the music of Oh Canada came booming out of a cassette player. Dr. Tolmie took time for the little things that really meant a lot. He led by example and had a profound influence on my life as a role model and mentor. I continue to think about how he would handle a situation and act accordingly. The workday always started with a cup of coffee as we talked about the day ahead. There was always time to talk about our families. He was so proud of his children and grandchildren. I always felt like he and Joan adopted me into their family. He gave sage advice about child rearing and it was a joyous day for me when he gave the toast to the bride at my wedding.
So many good memories of times spent with our international visiting students from Japan, Norway, and nurses from Malaysia. He was a true ambassador for the school of medicine.
I will miss his sense of humor, his smile and warm openness and love of life but will carry warm memories in my heart and strive to live by his example. Joan and family, thank you for sharing a wonderful man with all of my family.
Gary Harpold,MD
March 27, 2015
Dr. Tolmie was teacher, advisor and most importantly friend. He helped me get the Navy scholarship for medical school without which I could not have finished. His spirit, humor and kindness will never be forgotten. His passing saddens me greatly but also brings joy in remembering all the fun and knowledge he shared with me. He is with God and I know showing that great smile in Heaven.
Gary J. Harpold, MD
Captain/MC/USNR (ret)
Ceri Booth
March 27, 2015
Dr Tolmie was near and dear to many of us at NCBH in the Operating room and will be remembered joyusly. His knowledge careing compasion and gentel sence of humor were leading us everytime he was around. I know your love bond will continue on. Prayers for each and every one of the family, Ceri Booth....Operating Room NCBH
Alex Davit
March 26, 2015
Dr. Tolmie was a class act all the way. I still remember him teaching our Anatomy Lab practical sessions, and going from table to table to help us figure things out. I will never remember when I was having what I thought was a very, very serious discussion with him over our anatomy lab table, and I remarked, "It is very important to learn from your mistakes," and he wittily replied, "Ah, and it is MUCH better, and even MORE important to learn from mistakes that OTHER people make!!" This statement, of course, was followed by his big grin (see all the wonderful photos in this site and others... He was probably a recruiter's dream with that grin - so happy in the US Navy!)
Rest in peace, professor; you made a huge difference in many peoples' lives, and we shall all remember and celebrate you. May God bless you and your family. Thank you for your role in my education. Your smile was infectious, your zeal for teaching was memorable, and you shall not be forgotten.
Carol & Cam Enarson
March 26, 2015
Dear Joan and Family,
We were so very sad to hear the news about John. The world has lost a great man, one we will personally never forget. When Cam was a young faculty member at Bowman Gray, you and John were so very gracious to us. John set such a fine example for Cam in how he interacted with students and faculty. John always had a smile, a twinkle in his eye, was the consummate gentleman and had a great sense of humor. We always admired John and the relationship he had with "Joanie" and his children. It was apparent that he was deeply in love with Joan and always talked about his great kids and grandkids with much love and admiration. We will continue to strive to follow his fine example as a human being, mentor and friend. Our heartfelt condolences to you at this time. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Marilyn Goldstein
March 26, 2015
Mrs. Tolmie and family, I would like to extend my most sincere condolences. I was an Anesthesiology intern and resident at Wake Forest from 1988 through 1992. I have such fond memories of Dr. Tolmie. He was a great mentor and role model, and he was always such fun to work with. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
David Annand
March 26, 2015
I was privileged to know Dr. Tolmie when he was Dean of Student Affairs and the Navy Scholarship Advisor at BGSM from 1978-1982. What a great guy! Always had a smile on his face, and he knew every student by name. Also, loved his classic white Avanti! Wonderful person with a great zest for life!
lynn dausman
March 26, 2015
joan, What a wonderful man, married to an equally wonderful woman. It is a privilege to have you as a neighbor and a friend. Love, Lynn
Sam Weinberg
March 26, 2015
I was a CVT resdent 1972-4. I remember Dr. Tolme as an excellent anesthesiologist, and a terrific guy.My ddeepest sympathy to his famiy
kc angert
March 26, 2015
My wife and I were fortunate to get to know John during our training and, later, when I served as faculty at BGSM. One of the most positive, well-meaning people I have ever encountered. A great student of medicine and of life. His sense of humor held strong, no matter what hour on call.
John Davis
March 26, 2015
Dr Tolmie was a trusted adviser and counselor, but, even more, a good friend who wanted us all to be good physicians and better people.
John Thomas
March 26, 2015
Mrs. Tolmie, Suzie, Kim, and Ian: I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. I spent so much time at your house in Sandersted during high school and college breaks. I will always remember John being so welcoming with a huge smile, a handshake, and pat on the back. He was humble and always interested in what was going on in my life. I have such fond memories of him and the entire Tolmie family and you remain in my thoughts and prayers. I will plan to see you on April 4.
Ed Robey
March 26, 2015
Dr Tolmie guided our med school class '76 to '80 with his very gentlemanly manner. He was important to the lives of many and will be missed.
March 26, 2015
SIGRID & FAMILY
WOW, READING JOHN'S BIO LEAVES ME FEELING LIKE THERE'S A GUY WHO MADE THE MOST OF HIS LIFE. AND THEN SOME.
NEVER KNEW JOHN HAILED AT ONE TIME FROM GENEVA, ME BEING FROM ROCHESTER....WHAT A HAPPY, SMILING INSPIRATION HE WAS...MAY GOD BLESS ALL THE TOLMIES.
WITH LOVE AND ALOHA, TANYA AND JIM REED
Joe Neal
March 25, 2015
I am saddened to learn of John's passing. He was a wonderful man, great clinician, and the possessor of a sense of humor that both knew when to be funny, and when to lighten the mood during stressful times. I was probably 8 or 10 years out of Winston-Salem, when out of the blue he and Joan appeared on my back deck. His son lives not far from me, and they somehow knew where I lived and showed up for a visit. That unexpected visit was an example of one of his great qualities - he never forgot those who owe so much to his teaching and friendship.
David Edelman
March 25, 2015
Dr. Tolmie was the Assistant Dean during my four years at Bowman Gray. He was such a special mentor and educator. He taught me that being a physician was to be a gentleman and not to be afraid to add a sense of humor while we practiced Medicine. He will be remembered fondly and missed by all who knew him. God bless.
Nancy Rudderham
March 25, 2015
Dear Joanie and family,
It was so thoughtful of you to send us the sad news of John's death. I send my condolences to you all...for you have indeed lost your love and soul-mate, to say nothing of great Dad and Grandpa. I will be thinking of you on Saturday April 4th as you say your farewells ...and will write you at a later date.
Lots of love from one of the MGH gang, Nancy R.
Mary Bruce Serene
March 25, 2015
Dr. Tolmie was such an incredibly wonderful human being. he demonstrated great wisdom, great knowledge and tremendous compassion in his role as a teacher of medical students. I remember the time I spent studying with him with pleasure. His warm and witty personality made even the most difficult situations more than bearable. Rest in peace good doctor. The world you have left is certainly better because of all you did while you were here!
Kathleen Sawada
March 25, 2015
To the Family Tolmie:
My heartfelt and deepest condolences to you all at this time of great loss. I was moved to write when I heard that Dr. Tolmie had passed. He was my mentor, adviser, teacher and friend. As a medical student, he guided me in the ways of the Navy. He told me to respect and listen to the nursing staff and my NCOs and that they would take care of me. They did just that throughout my Naval Career. I am now a retired Naval Captain. He also gave me the words I live by - "Do something nice for yourself every day" - I try to remember this and to do something nice for someone else every day as well. He taught me a lot about being an Officer and being a Doctor. I will miss him very much. I only hope that he knows how much he influenced my life.
Ian Tolmie
March 25, 2015
Dad,
I'm so thankful that I was able to get home on Saturday to spend time with you. It was difficult seeing you in that condition but that time with you I will cherish for the rest of my life. This past weekend the world has lost a great person, America has lost a great American, our family has lost our leader and I have lost my best friend, my mentor and my hero. You will never be forgotten.
I love you so much!
Jack Monaco, MD, FACOG, FAARFM
March 25, 2015
Always a gentleman, Dr. Tolmie was friendly, courteous and devoted to the medical students. I have many fond memories of my conversations with him. To his family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. He is at peace with our Lord. Jack Monaco, MD (BGSM Class of '78)
Annette Pashayan
March 25, 2015
Like many former students, I am saddened to learn that John Tolmie has passed away. Because his high standard of care and skill were always couched in a wonderful sense of humor, Dr. Tolmie inspired me to become an anesthesiologist. While he didn't take himself or his position too seriously, he always took his work seriously. If only more medical school leaders were like him...
Ed Rudisill
March 25, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Will remember his wonderful smile and interest in making medical education fun.
Donna Small
March 25, 2015
Susie, Kim and Ian-
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. I remember your dad always being so kind. I am so sorry for your loss. God will enjoy your dad's company
Hans Crumpler
March 25, 2015
To all of the loving and grieving family of Dr Tolmie, I extend my heartfelt condolences and love to you all in remembrance of this great man. I was privileged enough to have been taught by him as a medical student and had nothing but the highest respect and reverence for his knowledge, skill, and personality. I will always remember Dr Tolmie as fair and impartial but also as a great teacher and mentor. He will be missed greatly. In Christ's Love, Hans Crumpler MD (BGSM '96).
Lisa Joines
March 25, 2015
My husband and my deepest sympathies are with you. We were both medical students at Wake Forest and Dr. Tolmie was a wonderful positive influence on us both. He will be greatly missed!!!
Roy Alson
March 25, 2015
Joan and Family,
Becky and I extend to you our deepest sympathies. John was many things to me in my career at Bowman Gray... a teacher, a Dean, a friend and most of all, a role model of what it is to a physician in the classic sense of the word. His smile, his love of medicine, his great sense of humor and his genuine compassion for people are the things I will always remember and try to emulate. Our school, our profession and our nation are the better for what he gave us.
Marsha Zeitany
March 25, 2015
Dear Joan,
Our hearts go out to you and your family during this time. We will miss the cheerful weekly phone calls and the constant upbeat perspective of you both. He was a most amazing man and it speaks volumes that we never knew of his many accomplishments during our interactions with you both.
Mo Waite
March 25, 2015
I was saddened on learning of John's passing. He was to me the embodiment of the spirit of Bowman Gray, positive and direct in his interactions with students and faculty alike. He could always get a laugh and smile out of me as he helped me to move ahead with the job at hand.
The School and all who were with him owe him much. We are all the better for our times with him.
David Albertson
March 25, 2015
John was a superb anesthesiologist and teacher, with a keen wit. I remember fondly the twinkle in his eye and his mischievous smile. He was that rare highly skilled operating room clinician who did not take himself too seriously. I, too, think of ANESTHESIA FOR THE UNINTERESTED when I think of John. In it he and Al Birch presented the essentials of anesthesia for medical students and residents rotating on anesthesia, holding their attention with humor and photos of "the Ether Bunny." John served his country, his profession and his fellow man in an exemplary fashion.
Michael & Aimee Lischke
March 25, 2015
Joan and family,
Aimee and I send our deepest sympathy to all of you. Our earliest Bowman Gray/Wake Forest memories involve many "John & Joan Tolmie" moments. The invaluable and always welcomed parent advice from you both as we were simply "starting out." Now four children later (oldest is 17 yrs), we continue to our best to prioritize the kids at every step -- just as you both always encouraged. John was an amazing educator, compassionate in his roles and an authentic colleague and mentor. We wish you the happiest of memories and regret that we can not get to the memorial service. Our best to all,
Michael & Aimee Lischke
March 25, 2015
Dear Joanie, Suzie, Kim and Ian
I was very very saddened to hear about John. He was indeed a remarkable kind man. I am happy that you were all there with him. I have many wonderful fun memories, being at Lake Norman and Christie Lake with the whole family.
Keep and cherish his warm memories close to your heart.
Thinking of you all at this time.
With love
Joanne Hamlin
Lisa Dinning Henningsen
March 25, 2015
I spent many hours down at your house when I was just a little girl. Your Mom and Dad were always so fun and sweet to me. I am so very sorry to hear about your dad. He was truly a special man that will be missed by all who knew him. Thinking of and praying for all of the family during this difficult time. Love you!
Ann Lambros
March 24, 2015
John easily had the biggest influence on so many of my career and personal decisions during the mid 1980s and early 1990s. He is the reason I pursued and obtained a Ph.D. It was his idea, his suggestion and my respect for what he thought that had me earn that credential. He was a constant support and advocate for my career and I will never forget how much he influenced every aspect of it.
I loved working with him and never wanted to disappoint him. During a particularly nasty snowstorm, probably in 1990, the medical students had a test with standardized patients that required some of us be there to pull it off. He let me know the night before that he would pick me up on Knollwood Street (I had to walk out of the neighborhood) and that he and I would go and make sure this test happened. It was so awful that morning that I don't think he even stopped that BMW but downshifted enough for me to hop in and off we went. Many times were such an adventure with him!
When he left the medical center for a short time during the Gulf War he asked me to spend time in his office each day so that it wouldn't look deserted. For fun, I replaced all of those family pictures of ski and tropical trips with framed male models just to see how long it would take him to notice on his return. I can tell you that it took exactly 1 nanosecond for him to grin that famous grin at me and say, "Nice touch. Where are my pictures?" He was so fun to laugh with and his sense of humor was just priceless.
I am a better person for knowing him. I am a better person for having him as a mentor. I am a better person for having him as a friend. I feel so blessed that he was a major part of my life. I love and will miss him dearly.
March 24, 2015
I have many warm memories of John beginning when we were both in Philly to do our anesthesia residencies. He was at the Naval Hospital and I was at HUP. I was delighted when he joined the faculty at BGSM and enjoyed many years of working with him.
He was so proud of his children. Joan and John were a wonderful and loving couple.
Frank James
March 24, 2015
Always cheerful, eager to teach, an excellent anesthesiologist. Never heard a bad comment about him. Excellent sense of humor and a great family man. I loved the book he co-authored: ANESTHESIA FOR THE UNINTERESTED (I believe that was the title). He spiced up a sometimes boring subject with a little "cheese cake" that helped keep up the interest. A positive inflluence where ever he went.
We will miss him.
George Plonk
Whit Mims
March 24, 2015
I remember him as irrepressibly kind. He had a constant demeanor of authentic friendliness and a sincere interest in others. It was a privilege to know him and I was proud that he was a family friend. A model physician and person.
Deanna Befus
March 24, 2015
A memory that always makes me smile: When I lived in Boulder, CO, John and Joan came out for a different event, but made a point to look me up and take me out to lunch. They offered to take me anywhere, and as a broke student working 3 summer jobs, I really wanted to eat at the fancy restaurant where I waitressed (I was 23, what can I say). So we arrived, me and the statuesque, elegant Tolmies, and were seated, at which time John reached for the wine menu, perused, consulted with me (a courtesy, because I sold them but could never drink them! but a genuine courtesy), and ordered a bottle. Wine at lunch! This is how the other half lived! We had a delightful time, and I felt very sophisticated and fancy; John and Joan then, in their most generous and seamless way, made me feel like *the* most interesting lunch companion in the world. John insisted on paying, and as we all parted ways, they thanked me for taking them time to show them one of Boulder's gems. THEY thanked me. Paraphrasing Maya Angelou: people will forget what you said, and forget what you did, but will never forget how you made them feel. John knew that, and never missed an opportunity to make someone feel like they just made his day. :)
March 24, 2015
Thank you for leaving a message about our dad. If you have pictures of your times with Dad, we'd love it if you'd add them here!
March 24, 2015
Hi, Dad - You were such a remarkable man. A big part of that was being the best dad ever for us. We already miss you tremendously but know you will be part of us forever. Thank you for teaching us, shaping us and loving us and Mom as much as you did!
We feel privileged to be yours - and to have been all together as you left this world. You were determined to tell us how much you loved us and even remind us of your keen sense of humor - these will be lasting memories for us. Our love for you will never die.
Love, Suzie, Kim and Ian
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