ROBERT B. MELLINS

MELLINS--Robert B., MD, 84, on December 12, 2012 in New York City. Born in Brooklyn, he received a BA degree from Columbia University and a MD degree from Johns Hopkins University, and subsequently returned to Columbia to be trained in pediatrics, cardiology and pulmonology. He was a compassionate physician, a devoted mentor and an internationally recognized authority in the field of childhood asthma. Until months before his death, he provided outstanding care to infants and children with lung diseases. He established the Pediatric Pulmonary Division at Columbia's College of Physicians and Surgeons and served as president of the American Thoracic Society, the Fleischner Society, and the L.A. Johns Foundation, as well as vice-president of the American Lung Association. He was Professor Emeritus at Columbia University and the recipient of the Physicians and Surgeons Distinguished Service Award. His pioneering research and untiring focus on the training and mentoring of physicians and other health-care professionals improved the lives of children around the world. Additionally, Bob, as he was widely known, was an accomplished musician, skier, figure skater, and gardener, as well as an avid reader, and an intellectual with deep and varied interests. Devoted and beloved husband of Sue, the proud father of Claude Ann and David Rustin, father-in-law of Michael Conard, and grandfather of Nicolas, Will, and Ryan Conard, he brought joy to an extended family and numerous close friends. He will be deeply missed by them, by his colleagues, students, patients, and all who benefited from his wisdom, warmth, and generous spirit. Services will be held at the Stephen Wise Free Synagogue, 30 West 68th Street, at 11:45am on Sunday, December 16, 2012. Contributions can be made to the two organizations dearest to his heart: the Louis August Jonas Foundation in support of Camp Rising Sun and the Arnold P. Gold Foundation in support of Humanism in Medicine.