Myron Magen

Myron Magen East Lansing, MI Myron S. Magen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and the charter dean of the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, died at his home in East Lansing, Michigan, on February 13, 2008. An innovative and distinguished educator, he led a small private school to become a flagship college of the osteopathic profession. In his 25 years as dean, he achieved global recognition, particularly for his strong emphasis on research, educational excellence, international health, and leadership development. At his retirement as dean in 1991, he served as dean emeritus and Walter F. Patenge Endowed Professor. He was the first osteopathic physician ever to become a member of the prestigious Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences, and was appointed to numerous committees advisory to state and national government. A member of the Pew Health Professions Committee, he received numerous awards and several honorary doctorates, including a honorary doctorate of science from MSU in 2004. He was the author of many peer-reviewed publications and has made hundreds of presentations. Internationally, he formed working relationships for MSU and the osteopathic profession in 16 countries on three continents. Born March 1, 1926, in Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Magen was the first-born child of Barney and Gertrude Magen. He had one younger brother, Howard, who preceded him in death in 1988. He attended P.S. 130 and graduated from Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn in June 1942. After serving in U.S. Navy, he received the D.O. degree from Des Moines Still College of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery in 1951, and began his career as an educator as associate professor and chairman of pediatrics at the College of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery in Des Moines (1958-62). He is survived by his wife of 55 years, the former Ruth Sherman; his three sons and their spouses, Jed Magen and Carol Barrett of Okemos, Michigan, Ned and Charlissa Magen of Soldotna, Alaska, and Randy Magen and Christine Chandler of Anchorage, Alaska; and eight grandchildren, Ben, Zach, Molly, Eli, Maurissa, Darryl, Hannah, and Noah. His family will miss his wit, charm, dedication, and fine wine. Memorial services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 19, at the University Club, 3435 Forest Road, Lansing. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the The Myron S. Magen Medical Education Fund (AS0018) in the MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine, A310 East Fee Hall, MSU, East Lansing, MI 48824-1316. Arrangements by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.