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Robert Singer Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Rob Peters
March 25, 2024
On the anniversary of your passing. Thank you for the gift of continued life you gave me 56 years ago this April 1st. You have always been remembered by myself and my family.
Thomas Moeller
September 14, 2023
I know this is very late to add this tribute, but I felt compelled to do so. In September of 1985, our 15-year-old son was diagnosed as having spondylolisthesis by our local doctor in Fredericksburg. Our doctor immediately referred him to Dr. Singer as the best neurosurgeon in Richmond. Our son immediately bonded with Dr. Singer, who moved all the mountains he had to in order to get the surgery done, which he did on Sept 25, the day before he went on vacation to Hawaii. Kurt came out fine and has had no more problems since. Dr. Singer was not only a great surgeon, but also a kind, caring, and compassionate man. I cannot thank him enough for saving our son from a lifetime of being wheelchair bound.
Tim Falkenberg
April 7, 2021
I met Bob on a path to Lookout Mt LO where he and friends were doing a 10 anniversary hike of summitting the first American women on Mt Everest.
I was there on the advice given to me from an RN that some of there patient's turn to prayer.
I had been struggling with lower back pain for a number of years and asked for some one to talk to in the outdoor environment that could explain to me what I needed to do to take care of the pain.
Bob told me that he was brought up with ideas of Norman Vincent Peal and that I should talk to some one that's gone through back surgery.
I told him of a friend of mine that had a hiking accident and hurt there back but it had been years since Id seen her.
Bob and I shared addresses and when I got home the next day I got a phone call from my friend saying that she’d had a bad dream about Spud eating a can of dog food outside of a forest and I hadn’t come out yet and wanted to know if I was alright.
I read The Power of Positive thinking and was still struggling with the ideas when I prayed for a Bible or his next book.
On the way to the Christian bookstore I stopped on the Hwy to pick up what looked like a new sweater and laying with it was his next book The Positive Power of Jesus Christ.
Bob and I shared adventures via mail and one day I got a plane ticket to fly back with my MRI’s to see him.
When he came to pick me up while walking through the airport THREE! former patient's came up to say how thankful they where.
This story goes on....
I currently watched the movie and read The Way of the Peaceful Worrier, Bob had all the quality's of Socrates in the story.
Thank you Bob Singer for not nibbling on my brain like in the Silence of the Lamb. He told me this was his favorite move on my first night visiting in Virginia. I think this was payback for all my questioning I put him through.
Love to all esp. you RIP Bob Singer
Tim Falkenberg
Bob Beisheim
January 6, 2021
I first met Dr. Singer as a patient. I was fortunate enough to go on a couple of his holiday delivery runs with him. We stopped at numerous hospitals and delivered cases of apples and home made cookies. I teased him about being in better shape than me (I was half his age) and asked why I was helping him? He told me his wife would not allow him to drive the truck any more. Dr. Singer was loved by the patients and staff at every place we went. I have never seen any doctor as dedicated to his patients as him. My condolences to the family for the loss of a great man.
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Yvonne Stoneburner
March 25, 2012
Nancy, I LOVED your dad! My memories of him start in Girl Scouts when he adopted me as his other daughter since my dad couldn't come to the father/daughter camp out. He made me feel sooo special.
Later that year when I fell off the trampoline, he held my hand for a week of tests, sending me home happy and well!!!
Once again, when I had more back problems with my first pregnancy, he had all the answers to make me well,again, always with his caring and intellectual thoughts, always making me feel like I was his only patient, as he pains takingly attended to my minor issues.
WE DO MISS him, as I know you do! WE COULD ALL LEARN FROM HIM and his ability to enjoy life to the fullest! He touched everyone he met in SO many ways! We're all lucky to have known him!!!
Love and HUGS to you!!!!
Carol Cardwell
April 5, 2011
In the early 1960's anyone who remembers the extraordinary medical care Dr. Singer gave to Norbert Bliley after his sledding accident would no doubt refer to the mountain climber as a miracle worker.
When the elevator door on the 7th floor of Johnston-Willis Hospital opened and I looked up from my nurses' station my eyes met with a terrified surgeon holding his patient’s head, not risking this delicate task to anyone else. I called this gesture the ultimate display of compassion and concern and told him so many times.
Three months later from the grim diagnosis of probable paralysis to watching his patient walk out of the hospital, Dr. Singer and the Johnston-Willis staff stood by that same elevator door as we all cried uncontrollably.
From that moment until the last time we laughed and talked about his mountain climbing I held Dr. Robert Singer in the highest regard; he was always above and beyond the call of duty.
Carol (Eggleston) Cardwell, RN
Ralph Koek, Lake Toba, Sumatra 2011
Ralph Koek
April 3, 2011
I was very saddened to hear of Bob's illness and now his passing. I met him when I was in college in the late 1970s, struggling with my decision about a career in medicine. He took me under his wing, and shared his love of the profession of medicine in general, and neurosurgery in particular. I was taken by his enthusiasm for his work, and awestruck by his concern for me. He fostered my budding fascination with neuroscience and gave me many important tips on how to reach my goal. I did end up going to medical school, and have enjoyed 20+ years in a related neuroscience discipline in medicine. And Bob kept up with me. We've shared calls, letter s and postcards (mostly from him to me from exotic places all over the globe) over the years, and a few visits. He came to my wedding 21 years ago and that was an honor. Over the years, whenever a family member has had a neurosurgical problem over the years, Dr.Singer has ready and happy to give advice.
He inspired me with his unique combination of positive certitude, energy, and genuine warmth and caring.
I feel very fortunate to have been touched by Bob, and hope that even now he is with God, and with Betty back at his side.
Ralph Koek, MD
Los Angeles, California
Chris Werner
April 3, 2011
Singer Family, I am so sorry for Your Loss..My thoughts and prayers are with you..I met Doc at Raintree back in 1998..I credit him for showing me the ropes when it comes to Fitness..He Could do it all..We kept in touch and hung out together..I always enjoyed seeing pictures from his hikes..
He will be missed..
Thank You,
Chris Werner
Paul Cella
April 3, 2011
I was a patient of his some years ago, and he was very nice to me. My condolences to the family.
Sue Haut
April 2, 2011
Dearest Singer Family,
Dr. Singer, or as our Family called him, "St. Singer", saved my Mom's life in 1970. Who would have known that 6 years later I would have the pleasure of working with him in Radiology at St. Mary's Hospital while I was a student and then later on in the 90's. Dr. Singer taught me a lot about life and how to respect life. I will always remember his smile and of course his bow ties. May your Family have all my respect, thoughts and prayers at this time and always.
Thank you,
Sue Haut and Family
Michael Wilson
April 2, 2011
I was a sixteen-year-old orderly at a small diagnostic hospital in the 70's. But Dr. Singer always talked to me as though I were a young intern and trusted co-worker...delicately explaining medical procedures to me that were way beyond my pay grade. Though he knew my stay at the hospital was limited, and that my medical career was not to be (I was much more interested in a career in advertising), he still tried to show me the ropes every opportunity he had. His interest in my "medical education" came in handy as I eventually became an art director on several medical ad accounts.
I ran into him much later in life, while taking my young sons to the train exhibit at the Science Museum of Virginia. He recognized the face and greeted me like an old friend. I don't know if he really remembered me...but I sure remembered him. He was a very hard personality to forget. Because while many of the other doctors on staff looked down on orderlies (and good nurses)...Dr. Singer was a true class act...a dedicated professional, a highly-skilled surgeon, and a tough—but fair—"co-worker" .
He will definitely be missed. My prayers go out to his family.
Rest In peace, Dr. Singer.
Elsie George
April 2, 2011
I met Dr. Singer while working as a hostess at the Williamsburg Inn. I had some back problems from a serious fall from a horse and he gave me some wonderful advice I have never forgotten. I have thought of him so often through the years. My condolences to the family of such a vibrant, wonderful man.
Neil Humphreys
April 2, 2011
I met Dr. Singer when we were members of the Model Railroad club in Richmond in the late 1980's. He reached out to me from the beginning. Talk about travel, he came to Farmville for dinner at our home, we just hit it off and I was happy for his friendship. He told me that he became interested in scenery when he was a resident and had a lot of time on his hands when he had to be on duty, but could not leave the hospital. He started to build scenery for his model railroad. He was a true friend and mentor.
Neil Humphreys, Ph.D.
Malvern, Pennsylvania
Joe & Mari Waltz
April 2, 2011
A compassionate skilled Doctor, an accomplished knowledgeable colleague, and a wonderful loyal friend. Bob Singer is, and will be, so missed. Our Deepest Sympathy to his family. xoxo forever,
Mari Waltz and Joe Waltz, fellow neurosurgeon
April 2, 2011
A Life That Touches Others Goes On Forever. He Touched Mine With His Surgical Skills And His Heart. I Will Always Be Grateful For Dr. Singer. Larry Maitland
Marsha Pace
April 2, 2011
I had the priviledge of learning and working with Dr. Singer for many years. He taught us in nursing shcool and many years later I would always ask him questions about Neurosurgery. He was a brillant surgeon and always took the time to come by the OR the next day to thank the people that had helped him do a case on call. He was very dedicated to his patients and he could many times be seen making rounds at 2am. I was so sad when he retired. He was a great surgeon,teacher and person. It was an honor to know him.
April 1, 2011
I will always remember the bow ties and the Christmas vests. I will remember the more mellow man who came back from Mt. Everest. I got to hug "Santa"that Christmas when he came back with the beautiful white beard. I will remember him with affection and great respect. Mary B. RN
Rob (Larry) Peters
April 1, 2011
It's April Fools' Day 1968 and Dr. Singer operated on me at Johnston-Willis Hospital for several hours to remove a growth (fortunately benign) in my left frontal lobe. I cannot begin to tell anyone how much he was appreciated by myself and my family but only that he will be missed for multiple reasons including his circus trains that my brothers always enjoyed at the annual show at the old Broad Street Station. My life was changed by his excellence as a gifted surgeon as many have been and I am sorry for the loss of this wonderful person.
April 1, 2011
All of us in the Department of Neurosurgery here at the University of Michigan offer Bob's family and friends our sincerest sympathy. He was a vibrant alumnus of the Department and we spoke just weeks ago. We will miss his charm and wit and his wonderful stories about a life well lived. He will be missed!!!
April 1, 2011
Dear Nancy,
I'm so sorry for your loss. Looks like your dad had a great time during bike week. Let me know If I can do anything for you here at school.
Vickie
John` Petroske
April 1, 2011
I will miss my friend. I got to know this gentle and caring man on the 1988 Mt. Everest expedition where Bob was s member of our team. A lasting friendship was the result. I am a better person because of him.
Mike Garber
April 1, 2011
I am so sad to hear of "Doc's" passing. He was such a gracious man and one I will long remember for his enthusiasm of life. Always a kind word and inspiring. I will miss him so.
Doc at "Bike Week" Daytona Beach, FL
Jack McAfee Jr
April 1, 2011
I met Doc many years ago working out in Raintree. We both realized pretty quickly that we had similar personalities and had a few things in common. We were both "Type A's", according to Doc. Which I'm sure was a result of our birthday's both being on the 22nd of October. We also found that we both drove race cars. And from that moment on, a bond was formed. Doc came out to the race track several times and even jumped into the right seat and took a ride at speed around the race track. To top that off, Doc followed myself, Ralph Watts and Ed Davis on our motorcycles (in his Toyota Prius) to Daytona Beach, FL for Bike Week. I never saw anyone drive a Prius so fast, have so much fun, or get away with so much as Doc did at Bike Week that year. We all loved him and will certainly miss him greatly. Lynne and I extend our condoloences to all his family and friends.
Vicki Richardson Hurt
April 1, 2011
Dr. Singer saved my baby brother's life when he was just 3 years old. My brother is now 41 years old and living a full life. He was a wonderful doctor. My condolences to his family.
Stephen & Patrice Fishel
April 1, 2011
We met Doctor Bob in his later years through the Friends at the Twin Hickory Library. He was such a delight to be around. We have truly lost a wonderful person. Our condolences to his family.
April 1, 2011
A truly great and inspirational man has passed away. We shared "minor" hiking adventures together. I was always amazed at his endurance, fortitude, and outlook on life. To be redundant, he is and will be missed. Ian Coddington
Garland Anderson
April 1, 2011
I only knew the Doctor from a back surgery he performed on me in 1990. He was such a nice person to be around that I never forgot him. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Garland Anderson
Renee Gould
March 31, 2011
My deepest sympathy to all of you on the passing of such a wonderful man. I worked many years with him at the old Richmond Memorial and he always kept his patients first and treated the staff well. He told wonderful stories. I loved going to the Science Museum to see his circus trains...and I also enjoyed hearing about his adventures.
My thoughts and prayers are with you ...he fought a valiant fight.
Paul Sobota
March 31, 2011
Bob was my best friend and a part of our family, Beth and I looked forward to every visit we had with him whether it was to hear about his latest adventure or the ones he was planning for the future. His desire and drive for exploration was second to no one else I have ever known. As Jared Seger has already shared, the memories of our adventure to Tanzania and the summiting of Mt. Kilimanjaro are forever imbedded in my memory. The feeling and excitement Bob had when we reached the summit is something you have to experience as no words can explain it.
May the angels lead you to the summit of Heaven!
Mark Cerny
March 31, 2011
For the Smith family, I am very sorry for your loss. Doc was truly an exceptional person. Being with him at Scout Camp was like being with a Rock Star. Doc always had a kind word or bit of encouragement for our young men. I am a better person for having known Doc.
Dennis Berman
March 31, 2011
"Doc" will always be remembered as a great advocate for the Wyndham community where he lived for 16 years. He gave of his time in so many capacities that benefitted all around him. He will be missed, and our thoughts are with his family and friends. A tree and plaque are being placed at Wyndham Lake in his honor.
The Wyndham Foundation Board Of Directors
Lesa Cole
March 31, 2011
Dr. Singer did back surgery on me when I was a teenager, I specifically remember the Oreo cookies he so sweetly offered me at every visit and the beautiful hiking pics that hung in his office. I saw him 20 yrs later & he remembered me & gave me a big hug. He will be missed, God bless his family. Lesa Cole
Bryan McRay
March 31, 2011
I had the priviledge of working with Dr. Singer at RIR in the Infield Care Center several years ago. He always had a smile and a story. He was one of the most humble men I've known and am sorry for the loss, but I treasure the memories.
March 31, 2011
I was a former patient of his, broke my neck at age 17 ( July 1,1966 ) and was paralyzed from my neck down, 3 months later walked out of MCV and had a normal life, he was such a great doctor and also a great man. I kept in touch with him over the years and I will miss him, I extend my condolences to his family. Larry Wheeler ( Midlothian Va, )
Harvey Lankford
March 31, 2011
Although over 20 years apart in age, Bob and I were hiking friends. He called me a month ago to come get his beloved mountaineering books. I knew then that I would be carrying his obituary with me in August to the summit of Mt. Whitney in the Sierra Nevada. There will be no better place than the top of a mountain to say goodbye.
Donna Hunter
March 31, 2011
So very sorry for your loss. I have very fond memories of working with Dr. Singer in the OR. Working with him inspired my love of neurosurgery. He has taught many. Will be missed.
"Doc" Singer and Jared Seger
Jared Seger
March 31, 2011
"Doc" as I knew him, was the grandfather to me that I missed out on. I had the pleasure of knowing him and sharing wonderful adventures with him. In 2005 He extended an invitation to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro and a Safari in Africa. I jumped at the opportunity and, It was the trip of a lifetime. The memories I have will never fade, nor will the impact he has made on my life. Of course he summited with a great smile, and still had stories to tell in camp that night. He will be missed I am sure by more than just me, as I know he brought life and spirit to so many.
I loved his drive and determination. Safe travels my friend, and gods speed. Jared Seger , Oregon
The Appleby Family
March 31, 2011
Dear Nancy, Alex, George and Ben,
Doc was a very special person. His kindness, sense of humor and love of adventure were inspiring. I am grateful for his friendship. Doc made a difference in many ways. He will be fondly remembered and missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
March 31, 2011
Doc Singer was a part of our Raintree family. We will miss him in the hallways and all the wonderful stories. He was an inspiration to all of us with his fitness routine.
Eddie & Stacey Parker
Larelle Carver
March 31, 2011
Dr Singer was a gifted surgeon. I had the pleasure of working with him . He and his group provided excellent care
to those with nerological problems requiring surgery. He will be rememebered for his great work
Ken Miller
March 31, 2011
Dr SInger was one of my first friends in this neighborhood. I was honored to be his friend as well as a fellow member of the home owners board and fellow cancer fighter. After meeting him, I found that many of my family friends knew and admired him long before I met him. I will miss him.
Jim Bisbee
March 31, 2011
I feel very fortunate that Bob was my friend. He inspired me with his drive, intelligence and love of adventure. Most of all, Bob was fun to be with and I'll miss him. My wife and I extend our condolences to his family and friends.
Jim Bisbee and Tricia Patterson
March 31, 2011
Doc was an inspiration to everyone who came into contact with him. His positive attitude was boundless. Our prayers are with the family.
Joy and Thomas Krimowski
Rob Witham
March 31, 2011
On behalf of my family, our condolences on the loss of a great man. We will forever be in Dr. Singer's debt, as he saved my father's life with his masterful work on his brain surgery in May, 1984. He, no doubt, touched the lives of countless families like ours, and I pray you take solace in the wonderful work he did throughout his life, a work which will live on for generations to come. Thanks to Dr. Singer, my Dad saw me graduate high school, marry, and he met his grandchildren. I will forever be grateful for that. God be with you during this time.
Sincerely,
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