Joseph Sataloff

Joseph Sataloff, M.D., 89 PHILADELPHIA, PA. --Joseph Sataloff, M.D., D.SC., (May 1, 1919 - Sept. 26, 2008) was Professor of Otolaryngology at Jefferson Medical College, Adjunct Professor at Drexel University College of Medicine and author of more than 150 publications including eleven books. He was one of the first specialists in ear surgery, and performed approximately 20,000 microsurgical ear operations on patients from around the world. He was also recognized as a pioneer in creating the subspecialty of Occupational Hearing Loss. His first book on that subject in 1957 was seminal, and he served in leadership roles throughout his career including as scientific advisor to President Nixon on the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA). His efforts have saved the hearing of millions of American workers who are now provided with ear protectors largely through his tireless advocacy. He remained active as a physician and consultant until he was hospitalized two weeks before his death. Joe Sataloff was also recognized internationally as a collector of and expert on antique jewelry, a subject on which he published two books, including a definitive work on Art Nouveau jewelry, his area of greatest interest. Portions of the collection he created with his wife, son and daughter have been displayed at major museums, and he donated exceptional art that is in the permanent collections of several eminent institutions including the Philadelphia and Boston Museums of Art and the Smithsonian Institution. Dr. Sataloff was a medical officer in the Navy for seven years during World War II. He served with the Third Marine Division and during his 28 months stationed on Guam, Sataloff (himself an Eagle Scout), founded the Boys Scouts of Guam. The organization still survives, and he remained in contact with some of the boys he helped, including one who went on to become Governor of Guam. In his twenties, Dr. Sataloff went to Maine in the summer as a doctor for Camp Kennebec on Salmon Lake. This began a life-long affair with Maine. He spent every summer there for the rest of his life in his home on the lake. He was happiest paddling the canoe along with the loons, looking for the eagles soaring overhead. Aside from his remarkable successes in the fields of medicine and antique jewelry, Joe Sataloff's greatest achievement was his ability to make people happy. He touched the lives of everyone he met in a uniquely special way that left them better people for having known him. He never failed to be the brightest light in any room. He had a positive outlook on every situation, and his laughter, passion, and enthusiasm were contagious. His joy, his spirit, his wisdom, and his songs will live forever in the hearts of the countless people who knew and loved him. Dr. Sataloff was a graduate of West Philadelphia High School and the University of Pennsylvania, and he lived in Bala-Cynwyd from 1952 until his death. He was active in Big Brothers, the Boy Scouts, the Union League and many other organizations in Philadelphia. He was beloved for his infectious enthusiasm and ready wit. He is survived by his wife Ruth; son Robert, daughter Jody, daughter-in-law Dahlia; and five grandchildren Jeremy, Jamie and Daniel Cluchey, and Benjamin and Johnathan Sataloff. In lieu of flowers, Dr. Sataloff requested contributions be sent to: The American Institute for Voice and Ear Research 1721 Pine Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 Joseph Sataloff, M.D.