Berton Harris Kaplan

Bert was my mentor during two years of study onsite at UNC-Chapel Hill (aka "South Side of Heaven" Ha!), and 10 years of study at a distance from Louisville. He was my "buddy" too. We had weekly meetings where I would typically open the discussion with one question -- of 10 words or less -- before he launched into a discourse. Only at the end of his discourse did he relate the message to my opening words. What fun! What a great learning experience! What a wonderful person!

Robert Wm. Prasaad Steiner, MD MPH PhD, FAAFP, DABPM; UNC Class 1988 & 1998.

Bert Kaplan had an extraordinary impact on my life as I am sure he touched so many others. In brief when I visited UNC as a senior in college trying to figure out where I wanted to go, it was Bert who led me to epidemiology, and sent me on a trajectory for life. He was a gentle-man, with a sense of direction for others, but never pushy. He was an avid tennis player and loved to talk about it with me. Most importantly he was always there when you needed him. I will not forget him. My heartfelt condolences to his family.
Michele

Bert was a selfless mentor and colleague in learning. I know how deeply he touched my life, so I can only imagine the hundreds of other students he influenced and inspired. From him I learned to be careful and thoughtful in research, but to be bold with the questions I asked. He will be missed, but his academic legacy will live on though those of us who were lucky enough to have had him as a teacher, mentor, advisor, and friend.

I owe my career to Bert, who was like a second father to me. I have a folder about him in my "virtual library" - https://sakai.unc.edu/access/content/user/vschoenb/Public%20Library/People/People/Bert%20Kaplan/
with the eulogy I read at his funeral service, awards he received, photos, and other mementos. He was a true Mensch, who will forever be remembered in the hearts of many.

Bert was a friend, wise counselor and a scholar to emulate. My fond memories include zany tennis matches with Bert, Morrie Lipton and others. Bert stimulated me to read literature in ways that I never imagined due to his wisdom and insights. My profound sympathy to Ellen, Daniel , Ron and all the family members

Bert was one of my dearest friends and a very important colleague and mentor during my years as a faculty member at UNC-Chapel Hill. He was the best read person I've ever known and he had a fabulous sense of humor. I so enjoyed his company. Bert was a devoted teacher who set an example for the rest of us to follow. Most of all, he loved Ellen and his two söns with all of his heart. I will miss him.

My sincerest condolences to the family. May the strength and peace that only God can give comfort you during this difficult time. Psalms 29:11

Bert was the kindest, gentlest graduate advisor and teacher any student could wish for. His insights into humanity and health are a part of me forever. May his memory be a blessing.

May his memory be a blessing. Mark Rodin

What a leader and a scholar! Bert was the finest example of a mentor and teacher I have encountered in more than 35 years of academic work. I miss him already.

Ellen and family-

I was deeply saddened to learn of Bert's death. He was the epitome of the "gentleman scholar," with an inquisitive mind, a personal warmth and humility, and an abiding passion to teach and to learn from others. While it has been many years since my regular conversations with Bert as a graduate student, I will treasure memories of him always. My deepest and heartfelt condolences to all of the family, but especially to Ellen.
Ray Greenberg