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STEPHAN KAMHOLZ Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for STEPHAN KAMHOLZ
Edna Khodadadian
June 7, 2023
Dr Kemholz was a true gem. He was a medical expert and my chief of medicine at Northwell for many years. He was really smar and spoke so many languages. He was truly loved and respected by everyone. Very modest and friendly. He is greatly missed.
Fred Terracina
June 7, 2022
I have revisited the messages on this site from friends acquaintances, patients and others. I was a patient of Doctor Kalmholz and got to know him over several visits. He always carefully took my vital signs and did a complete workup He explained why he was doing whatever he did, what the signs were and his conclusions. When he was no longer able to see me he referred me to an excellent colleague. He also visited me in the hospital thereafter. W@hat a great man!
Marilyn Orenstein, M.D.
April 16, 2021
I remember Dr. kamholz when I was a medical student at Albert Einstein and he was a pulmonary fellow at Montefiore hospital . Even then he impressed me with his academic brilliance and almost photographic memory. I am so saddened to hear of his untimely death due to Covid but not surprised to hear of his devotion to his staff, students, and fellow physicians. I was on staff at Downstate /kings county medical center in the mid 1980’s a few years prior to his arrival and always regretted not working for him knowing how great he truly was.
Omar Taha M.D.
March 18, 2021
Dr. Kamholz was a great mentor and friend during my training from 2014 until his passing. Lessons I learned from him resonate with me every day. He touched countless lives of young physicians and we will always appreciate him. He will never be forgotten.
Samuel F. Gairy
July 10, 2020
Dr Stephan L. Kamholz was the Doctor who was in charge of the team that treated me during my illness at King's County Hospital Center Brooklyn,NY. in 1989.I had Bacterial Meningitis. Left me totally deaf . Great Physician. Did everything to make me comfortable even after I was discharged. Oversaw plans for my Cochlear implant Surgery at NYU Medical Center. My Condolences to his wife and family . I am deeply saddened. He was the best of the best of Doctors.
Mark E. Abrams
July 8, 2020
I was a ZBT fraternity brother of Steve's at NYU. We were in the same class. He was the President of the chapter which he ran with the same confidence & propriety that apparently carried through to his practice of medicine. We were all NY kids & got along well but it was always Steve & Larry Hofrichter running the show. It's a long time since then but when my ex-wife texted me about his passing it was like yesterday at the fraternity house, Friday night parties, formals & the Gammaflage magazines. It brought back fond memories, nostalgia & sadness. I wish you all peace knowing that he did what he loved until the end & no one can ask for anything more than that. May his sole rest in peace. Mark Abrams
Jayanthi Parameswaran MD
July 1, 2020
Devastating-he was absolutely wonderful and was an inspiring teacher and mentor. He loved his patients and loved teaching and was very inspiring to me .....
Bernard P. Shagan, M.D.
June 19, 2020
He was one of the best people I have ever known, a friend and associate who was a beacon of light, knowledge and joy to all who knew and worked with him. Bernard P. Shagan, M.D., M.A.C.P., F.A.C.E.
Edna Khodadadian
June 18, 2020
I had the privilege and honor to work under his leadership at North Shore University Hospital from 2004 to 2010 when he was the Chairman of Medicine.
He was a great role model. He was intelligent, kind and caring.
His untimely death is heartbreaking.
My deepest condolences to the entire family.
Richard Becker MD
June 17, 2020
Deeply saddened to see Steve's obituary. I knew him briefly while a medical resident 1979-81, but the impression was deep. Montefiore had many wonderful people, but I recall Steve as the most talented physician teacher, and role model that I met during that period. A terrible loss I am sure for all who met him in the intervening years.
Grace Wang, MD, MPH
June 16, 2020
I developed asthma during my internship year at Montefiore Hospital in the early 1980s. Im not sure how I came to be Dr. Kamholz patient but I am forever grateful for the care he provided. I never had to make or wait for an appointment. Dr. Kamholz would always tell me to Just page him whenever I had a free minute so he could meet me in the PFT lab and adjust my medications based on the results. I never told him this but I dont think I would have made it through my internship year without his knowledge, skill and kindness. We have indeed lost a great one.
Michael Como
June 16, 2020
Dr Kamholz was truly there for us as a mentor and great teacher at Downstate/SUNY Brooklyn. He shared his passion for medical education with us and advocated selflessly for us. He helped guide me and motivate me to confidently pursue my career in Pulmonary and Critical Care that I have today. I am very grateful to have had him as a Chairman of Medicine as a student. His energy and enthusiasm for our work will not be forgotten.
My love and best to all his family and friends
Michael V Como MD FCCP
Andrew Levitas, M.D.
June 15, 2020
I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dr. Stephan Kamholz, with whom I shared the intense experience of a medicine internship at Montefiore Medical Center and Morrisania Hospital in 1972 and 1973. We were teamed together twice, for four months total. I am not surprised to read the fond descriptions of him as a much older man, of his encyclopedic knowledge of medicine, his care for teaching, and his dedication to the care of his patients. Always there with an idea, always respectful of the skills of the rest of the team, always with warmth and a wry sense of humor. One story from our internship stands out. On a busy Saturday at Montefiores Klau pavilion (and when was it not?), we arrived for rounds to find him with a patient with esophageal cancer who had been admitted the day before. The mans tumor had eroded into an artery; he was bleeding profusely, bringing up quantities of bright red blood. We all knew the situation was hopeless. Stephan had dropped an NG tube and was fighting to keep the man from aspirating; a terrible way to die. He insisted on staying, arguing that we could not cover the floor, new admissions, and the needs of this dying man. Steve stayed through the day, administering as best he could to those needs. We helped as much as our other tasks allowed, which was not much. The patient died late in the afternoon, more comfortably than he might have without Stephans tireless and dedicated care. In the almost 50 years since, Stephan clearly went on to become the perfect physician he was.
Nelisa Lalane
June 15, 2020
Dr. K was one of kind, I dont think we will ever come across of somebody like him. It was a true pleasure having a mentor like him during my residency. He not only was smart( very evident), he was caring, and always worried about everybodys well being, what a humble soul! May he rest in peace.
Nelisa Lalane
June 15, 2020
Dr. K was one of kind, I dont think we will ever come across of somebody like him. It was a true pleasure having a mentor like him during my residency. He not only was smart( very evident), he was caring, and always worried about everybodys well being, what a humble soul! May he rest in peace.
Santa DAlessio
June 15, 2020
In all of my medical career, I have never met a more sincere, thoughtful, brilliant mentor and friend. Dr. K was responsible for my introduction to Pulmonary Medicine. He was Chairman of Medicine at Downstate at the time rotating on service. He amazed us everyday with his incredible mass of knowledge, photographic memory, teaching ability, but mostly for me, I was amazed by his humanity. He didnt see patients... he saw people. This was a lesson I would hold dear. I have become a pulmonologist as well and over the years, Dr. K became Steve. I could text him anytime or email with any need. I never waited long for him to answer. In early April, I texted him... and asked him to be careful. The world was better with him here. I will miss him. I will never forget the lessons he taught, and I promise to carry them on. He built a legacy of doctors. I pray he continues to watch over us.
Adelaida (Adi) Miro, MD
June 15, 2020
Steve was my Pulmonary Chief during his first years at Downstate/Kings County 1986-1988. Among the smartest yet humble people I have ever met. His photographic memory during daily pulmonary rounds was legendary and would start with I remember a publication in Chest by so-and-so in the April issue, ummmm, page 573, in the 3rd paragraph of the second column which found XYZ. As a young fellow I would go look it up after rounds only to find he was spot on. Confirmed a few times after which I realize he was genuinely a genius with a photographic memory (have never come across another one). That genius was combined with being kind and humble. Qualities rarely found all-together in the same person. Once after a long day filled with bronchoscopies, consults, etc., he came to our office with a bottle of single malt scotch a patient had gifted him. It was my first introduction to this beverage before it was cool to drink. It never became one of my favorites, but I do have a bottle in my cabinet and tonight, I will toast to being privileged to have known, worked, learned and been inspired by such a great man. Cheers Steve K!
Richard Periut, M.D.
June 14, 2020
Dr. Kamholz was one of those humans, that was one in a million. Great physician, human, friend. We will miss you greatly Dr. Kamholz; even though you insisted that I call you Steve. Rest In Peace.
VIJAY CHECHANI, MD, FACP, FCCP
June 14, 2020
Steve was the best teacher who inspired us all. His photographic memory is legendary. He kept in touch with his fellows who had access to him with a text. He remembered everything about their families despite the years that had passed. I will always credit him for making me a better Pulmonologist! I was lucky that he was program director in Downstate Medical Center when I joined. It was a privilege to be taught by him. His presence will be sorely missed. We have truly lost a great physician and human being. My heart felt condolences to the family.
David Gordon
June 14, 2020
I knew Steve when he was the chair of medicine at SUNY Downstate medical center and I was interim chair of Radiology for 2 years from 2001-2003.
Steve was my mentor helping me with administrative questions as well as medical questions.
Steve was the smartest doctor I have ever worked with.
He had an encyclopedic knowledge of multiple areas of medicine including chest medicine which was a joint interest between us.
He could quote valid references, current and remote which were always correct.
He had a computer like mind. I was amazed to see him multiply two six digit numbers and be correct to a thousanth of a decimal point-not showing off.
He was a solid and stable presence in Chair meetings where everyone had high regard for his judgment.
He was an exceptional person/physician and will be missed..
I wish he was not so brave as I am sure he was on the front lines of treatment in these pandemic times.
He will be missed.
David H. Gordon, MD, FACR
Professor of Radiology
Fred Terracina
June 14, 2020
I was a patient of Dr Kalmholz, He was so kind and compassionate and I knew he cared deeply that every patient received the best care he could provide. He not only listened he made sure that I understood what my health condition was and how he and I could improve my health. He referred me to an excellent primary care physician and later visited me with that primary care physician when I was hospitalized at a later time. That was special for me but probably not for Dr Kalmholz who deeply cared about his patients.
Aaron Pinkhasov
June 14, 2020
I am shocked to learn about death of Dr Kamholz who was a rare example of a brilliant physician, amazing educator, true gentleman and above all a beautiful Human being with a radiant soul of a tzadik. No words can express the magnitude of this loss that signifies the end of an entire era.
Revered by anyone who crossed paths with him, he managed to create an endless ripple effect of wisdom and goodness penetrating lives of people all over the world for generations.
His blessed memory and the legacy he left will go on forever in hearts of thousands of doctors who were lucky enough to be touched by him. I am fortunate to have had an honor of being trained by him during my Downstate Internal Medicine Residency years.
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dr Kamholz.
Rest in heaven for all eternity my dear teacher, mentor, role model....
Aaron Pinkhasov MD
June 14, 2020
I am shocked to learn about death of Dr Kamholz who was a rare example of a brilliant physician, amazing educator, true gentleman and above all a beautiful Human being with a radiant soul of a tzadik. No words can express the magnitude of this loss that signifies the end of an entire era.
Revered by anyone who crossed paths with him, he managed to create an endless ripple effect of wisdom and goodness penetrating lives of people all over the world for generations.
His blessed memory and the legacy he left will go on forever in hearts of thousands of doctors who were lucky enough to be touched by him. I am fortunate to have had an honor of being trained by him during my Downstate Internal Medicine Residency years.
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dr Kamholz.
Rest in heaven for all eternity my dear teacher, mentor, role model....
Aaron Pinkhasov MD
June 14, 2020
I am shocked to learn about death of Dr Kamholz who was a rare example of a brilliant physician, amazing educator, true gentleman and above all a beautiful Human being with a radiant soul of a tzadik. No words can express the magnitude of this loss that signifies the end of an entire era.
Revered by anyone who crossed paths with him, he managed to create an endless ripple effect of wisdom and goodness penetrating lives of people all over the world for generations.
His blessed memory and the legacy he left will go on forever in hearts of thousands of doctors who were lucky enough to be touched by him. I am fortunate to have had an honor of being trained by him during my Downstate Internal Medicine Residency years.
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dr Kamholz.
Rest in heaven for all eternity my dear teacher, mentor, role model....
Marion Hofmann Bowman
June 13, 2020
Dr Kamholz was the Chief of Dept at NSUH during my IM training (2001-2004). He was a role model in every aspect: a most caring doctor for his patients, an encyclopedia of medical knowledge during morning report, and a wonderful mentor with valuable career advise. He always had a smile and encouraging words. I cherish the memories and thank him for his wisdom. My deepest sympathy to his family.
doug gersten
June 13, 2020
My dearest friend for 66 years. That says it all.
Ghayas Ahmed
June 13, 2020
He sure was the difference maker. Great loss for every body whom he touched.
Lorraine Terracina
June 13, 2020
I worked with Steve at SUNY. He was a great teacher, and he led his department and faculty as the cornerstone of the medical education program. His fourth-year medical student elective was always immediately filled with students eager to learn from him. As others have said, what a kind, compassionate, and warm human being. And such a terrific physician and diagnostician. A true role model-what we want every MD to be! I really missed him when he left SUNY. When he was at Northwell, he was very kind and helpful to my family, which I will never forget. He touched so many lives, he will be missed by so many. My condolences to his loved ones.
Sarah Kitakule
June 13, 2020
We got to him because of the opportunity he gave to our brother Dr Moses Kitakule. Because of his action many lives have been changed and continue to be impacted here in Uganda. May God comfort you during this difficult time.
Lara Weiss
June 13, 2020
He was a mentor and a great friend to my grandfather. He was such an incredibly special person and impacted so many. He was brilliant, kind, compassionate, empathetic.. everything you want in a physician and a friend and everything we all should strive to be. I will keep his memory with me in my training and hope to be even a small part of what he was to the world. Im so sorry and sad for everyones loss
Moses Kitakule
June 13, 2020
I miss Dr.Kamholz so much! I simply don't have the words to express what he mean't to me. I am so devastated but I thank the almighty God that he put him in my path. To the family, thank you so much for sharing him with us.
Subrahmanya Bhat
June 13, 2020
Dr Kamholz was our Head of Dept at SUNY ( 1987-1989)
He was a great teacher and wonderful person. I have the highest respect for him
Mitchell Roslin
June 13, 2020
Had honor of doing part of my research fellowship with Dr Kamholz in 1989-90 and he has been friend and mentor since. All will miss as he was great teacher, friend and person
K Lucas
June 13, 2020
Dr. Kamholz was a kind and compassionate person who went out of his way to help others. With all the pressures he had he still took time to respond to everyones request for assistance. Im sure God welcomed him with open arms.
Corrine Gould
June 12, 2020
The world lost a great man last night. Easily, the smartest person I ever knew and so incredibly generous with his time. It didnt matter how busy he was (and he was BUSY), he always picked up the phone when I called. He was kind and gentle and his breadth of knowledge was so far reaching, it would never cease to amaze me. From medicine, to wine, to foreign languages, an endless curiosity and a memory like a steel trap- he was astounding. He loved fine food, fast cars, and he was a pilot! He lived a life of service and was on the frontline of this plague, caring for 100s of COVID patients and it got him. RIP. Its hard to imagine the world without Steve. You will be sorely missed. My deepest sympathies to Rosemary, his children and grandchildren.
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