Lewis Ronald Cromwell

Cromwell, Lewis Ronald October 19, 1943-July 5, 2010. Of Wauwatosa. Ron Cromwell died, at home, unexpectedly but peacefully, with his beloved wife of 45 years, Lucy, at his side. He is also survived by his devoted children, Lucinda and Gregory. Also survived by his loving in-laws Alexander and Eugenia Switowy of Aurora, CO, his brother David (Brenda), and his mother, Thelma (Lewis-deceased), presently of Sioux Falls, SD, as well as other extended family around the United States. Ron Cromwell was born in Wichita, Kansas, and grew up in Denver, Colorado. A brilliant student, he won many scholarships and awards, including The Boettcher Scholars Award in Colorado, and Phi Beta Kappa at the University of Denver. He received his PhD in Pharmacology from Marquette University in 1971 and his MD from The Medical College of Wisconsin in 1974. Ron devoted his professional life to the mentally ill of Milwaukee County, first as staff psychiatrist and later as Associate Medical Director in charge of Quality Management at what was then called the Milwaukee County Mental Health Center. He wanted all of his patients to have quality care and continuity of staff and treatment. Under his direction, the hospital received Joint Commission accreditation. He helped put in place policies and procedures to ensure quality care in all facets of the hospital, from housekeeping to dietary, to medical staff. He instituted a pet therapy ward and helped procure Sabrina, the first dog to live at the mental health center, arranged for his patients to go on outings for pizza at Marty's and picnics at Holy Hill, brought the Divine Savior Holy Angels Angelaires for Christmas concerts when his daughter was a member of the chorus. He also gave patients gift certificates for Christmas and conducted group meetings to help them plan how they would spend their money when they went together to shop. He always dressed well, saying his patients deserved a doctor who "dressed up for them." He loved his family and was particularly proud of his two children. Despite an early retirement because of illness, he continued to pursue interests in opera, theater, armchair travel (including a few real trips as well-New York City and London among Ron's favorite places), detective fiction, and gardening. He studied maps as a pastime and could direct you through any major city in the world. He also knew where every shopping mall in the US was located. His neighbors in Wauwatosa will miss seeing him in his wheelchair, tending to his flowers. His family and friends will miss his love and friendship, his advice, his ability to whistle entire operatic scores, and his generous heart. The family suggests memorials to The Alliance for the Mentally Ill in Milwaukee or to Alverno College, Milwaukee WI. Visitation on Monday, July 12, at the funeral home from 5:00 to 7:00 PM with funeral service at 7:00 PM.