Dr. Walter Nalesnik M.D.

Walter Nalesnik, M.D., age 85, formerly of Salem and Marblehead, MA, passed on to be with the Lord on Wednesday, July 28, 2004, at Mayview Convalescent Center in Raleigh, NC.
He was born in Salem, MA on February 5, 1919 to George and Theresa (Bik) Nalesnik who had immigrated to this country from Russia. He attended schools in Salem, MA where he played in the Salem High School band. He was a locally known jazz trombonist during the "Bib band era." He earned his M.D. from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in Boston in 1944 and completed internship and residencies at St. Francis Hospital and Margaret Hague Hospital in Jersey City, as well as Boston City Hospital.
Dr. Nalesnik was particularly proud of his service in the U.S. Army Medical Corps during the Korean War where he achieved the rank of Captain. He was honorably discharged in 1955. He returned to Salem, MA where he practiced medicine or 35 years. He then practiced in Marblehead, MA for six years. He was a staff member and co-owner of the former Saugus General Hospital as well as an active staff member of the former Mt. Pleasant Hospital. He also served as Assistant City Physician in Salem during the Collins administration.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Muriel (Thomas); son, Dr. Walter Nalesnik, Jr. of Revere, MA; and daughter and son-in-law, Dr. and Mrs. William (Darlene) Parsons of Raleigh, NC. His beloved grandchildren are Emily, Abigail and Will Parsons of Raleigh, NC; his sister, Stella Sweeney of Beverly along with several nieces and nephews, also survive him.
Dr. Nalesnik and his wife were world travelers. He loved animals, particularly dogs, including his sweet dog, Dolly. He was a member of the AMA, Essex County AMA; Fellow of the American Geriatric Society and a charter member of the American College of Emergency Physicians. He was also a former member of the Starr King Lodge of Salem, Aleppo Temple, Massachusetts Consistory, Knights of Phythias and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He was a member of St. Nicholas Church of Salem, and Vice President of the St. Nicholas Aid Society of Salem.
The family would like to express their deep gratitude to the staff of Mayview Convalescent Center, particularly Henry and Roberta, who provided him with superb care in his last days. Special thanks goes out as well to his wonderful physician, Dr. Jim Parsons.
A private memorial service will be held at David Gonet Funeral Home in Salem, MA on Saturday, July 31, at 10 AM.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army or any charitable veterans groups. The Lord gives and the Lord Takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.