Sidney Schultz M.D.

SIDNEY SCHULTZ, M.D.
Sidney Schultz, M.D. died on January 6, 2022. His life covered more than one century, and Sidney lived a life of distinction in every respect. He was a doctor of renown, a true companion and dear friend, and a man who excelled in the art of living.
Sidney lived 36,821 days from his birth in 1921. And although not every day was momentous, the sum total of that remarkable length of time is a vivid picture of a life filled with noteworthy accomplishment, deep satisfaction, and enduring impressions.
Sidney was an orthopedic surgeon (or a "sterile carpenter" as he often referred to his profession). Originally from New Jersey, he finished his medical residency in Louisiana and then came to Albuquerque for the simplest of reasons: a doctor here offered him $25/month more than either Tulane University or another doctor in the South. Within a few years he began his own medical practice. Sid truly was a medical professional. His talents in the operating room were well-known, and he performed one of the first total hip replacements in New Mexico. But it was his compassion, his focus, his empathy for the concerns of his patients, and his ability to inspire trust that set him apart as a physician. After recovering from spinal surgery, one patient penned a poem that Sid kept on his office wall: A patient's plea:When I am stricken knee, hip and thigh Or wounded grievously do I lie. I pray that God will send to meSchultz's artistic surgery!
In addition to his medical prowess, Sidney enjoyed an unparalleled reputation as a medical expert witness. He was perceptive, fair and persuasive. He also had an astounding ability to explain the intricacies of anatomy and medical procedures in an easily understandable manner without being arrogant or condescending.
Of his 100+ years, Sidney spent nearly 75 of them married to his partner and confidant, Ruth. They met at summer camp when they were 12, and they remained together until Ruth's death several years ago. Theirs was a love for the ages. They shared a passion for Western and Native American art. They travelled to every continent and gazed at nearly every wonder of the modern world. They enjoyed each other's company in all settings imaginable.
To have known Sid was to have beheld his sartorial elegance. Sidney's wardrobe was almost beyond description: there were the infamous red, white and blue plaid pants he wore to each Indian Market. The jaw-dropping array of sport coats, slacks and sweaters in a vast range of colors, fabrics and patterns. And his astounding collection of bolo ties and buckles. Sid's dashing appearance cut a memorable figure in almost any setting.
Then there was his humor. Ever ready with a tale, his repertoire of all kinds of humor – from puns to riddles to stories – seemed endless. His ability to regale a gathering with Yiddish jokes was marvelous.
Sidney enjoyed fine wine and good food, but was equally happy at a Dairy Queen – so long as he was with people he enjoyed. He was the best company at home and the most interesting of travelling companions. He relished in sharing his love of art. He enjoyed a good party regardless of whether he was with other doctors, Native American artists and their families, or the friends of his children. And he took great naches (pride or enjoyment) from the time he spent with his family, including his 3 children and their spouses, 4 grandchildren and their spouses, and 4 great-grandchildren.
100 years, 9 months, 21 days is an exceptionally long time to live. Sidney lived them well, and he will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to share any of that time with him. Because of public health concerns, a memorial service will be held at a later time.