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Kevin Mack Obituary

Kevin Allen Mack, M.D. Dr. Kevin Allen Mack was born on November 21, 1958, in Grosse Pointe, Michigan to Katherine and Thomas Mack. He passed away on Thursday, July 14, 2011. He was 52 years old. Kevin was a devoted husband and father. He met his husband, Naoki, 20 years ago in Hawai'i where he attended the University of Hawai'i John A. Burns School of Medicine. His training took him to Boston, New York, and Italy, and ultimately brought him to San Francisco. Kevin and Naoki were married in 2008 at San Francisco City Hall surrounded by their family and friends, most notably their two children, Chiaki (7) and Nobu (4). As a psychiatrist, Kevin dedicated his practice to the underserved. In addition to the time he spent seeing patients, he was passionate about advancing the field of medical education. Among his major achievements in this area was the redesign of the UC Berkeley-UCSF Joint Medical Program. Most recently, he was involved with the World Health Organization, and helped to bring a modernized medical education curriculum to Ethiopia. Kevin touched the lives of many through his personal and professional lives. He had the ability to sincerely connect with people from all walks of life and will be remembered by all for his compassion, kindness and generosity. He was a devout Catholic, who believed in the inherent goodness and kindness of all, and inspired others to do the same. Kevin is survived by his husband Naoki, their two children, sister Kim, brother Michael and their families. His extended family was a source of great pride and joy. The viewing will be held 6pm Tuesday evening and the Vigil Service will begin at 8PM July 19th, 2011 at St. Agnes Catholic Church on 1025 Masonic Avenue, San Francisco CA 94117. The Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday morning, 10am on July 20th at St. Agnes. In lieu of flowers, donations to benefit his husband and children may be made to the Kevin Mack, MD, Memorial Fund through Wells Fargo Bank. McAVOY O'HARA Co 415-668-0077

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Jul. 16 to Jul. 18, 2011.

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Bob Buckley

July 10, 2021

Kevin, I miss you. Especially when I find myself thinking un-generous thoughts about some person or group, and I wonder, "But how would Kevin have handled these feelings?" I miss your mischievous sense of humor and your optimism. You are still teaching.

Drew Fisher

July 10, 2020

The man never slept! I don't know if it was an active mind or pain that kept him going, but he never seemed to stop. But his "hyper-activity" was always constructive, always building bridges and self-esteem to those who happened to cross his path (and those of us with whom he chose to cross paths).
Once I learned that I liked to write (it was my psychotherapy--a much cheaper form, I might add), I framed a messianic story around a character inspirited by Kevin. Who can ever forget Kevin and Boa?
He is one of a very few people in my life that seemed most connected to a generous flow of the true essence of the Christ Love. Any- and everyone who happened into his rather large aura of Love was made better for it (whether they knew it or not).

Kimberly Grace-Brezniak

July 10, 2019

Kevin, you are missed and remembered. Much love to your family.

Paul Allen

July 13, 2018

RIP MY GREAT COUSIN KEVIN. I WILL MISS YOU SO AS MAKES NO SENSE TO ME THAT THE GREAT DIE YOUNG. YOU WERE SO CARING AND GIVING TO HELP PEOPLE THAT HAD THE HARDEST TIME GETTING IT AND YOU ALWAYS WERE SO INTERESTED IN HEARING WHAT YOU WERE UP TO IF IT MADE YOU MISS YOUR LUNCH OR WHATEVER. YOU WERE ALWAYS THERE FOR ANYONE AND I JUST WISH YOU WERE STILL HERE AS I WAS TOO YOUNG AND WENT THRU SO MUCH AT THE TIME THAT I COULDNT BE ABLE TO HEAR YOU INSTEAD OF YOU ALWAYS HAVING THAT OPEN EAR. I LOVE YOUR FAMILY SO MUCH AND AM SO GLAD THAT I WAS ABLE TO SPEND TIME WITH YOUR MITHER AND SISTER BEFORE SHE PASSED. TO YOUR HUSBAND AND CHILDREN I HOPE THINGS ARE GOING GREAT FOR ALL OF YOU AND YOUR FATHER AND HUSBAND HAS BEEN SO INSPIRING TO ME THAT I WANT TO TRY EACH DAY TO TRY TO DO ..0001% OF WHAT WAS NATURAL TO YOU EACH DAY TO MAKE SOMEONE ELSES DAY, A STRANGER OR A LOVED ONE. JUST A LITTLE BETTER TO THEM AS THAT WAS A GIFT YOU HEAR FROM PEOPLE ALL IVER THE WORLD YOU INSPIRED. RIP KEVIN. GOD BLESS.
AMEN.

Drew Fisher

February 15, 2015

Kevin taught me more about love than any other human being I've had the privilege of being in the company of. His fearless sense of humor was so disarming he could make a life friend out of a stranger in ten seconds or less. His presence was was saint-like; his self-doubt equally so. (Does any saint not question his own motives and impact?)
I am so glad Kevin found his life partner and that their children will have known this torch of unconditional love.

Eric Woodard

July 29, 2011

Kevin was a landmark person. Not just a passing individual that blends with your memories. I can't begin to express the hole he left with is passing.

Joe and Secret German

July 28, 2011

I had the privilege to meet Kevin and Naoki through his brother Mike and sister in law Patty. It was an honor to meet and get to know him. He will always be an inspiration to me for many years to come. Thank you Kevin for being a part of my family.
Naoki you and your wonderful children are in our thoughts and prayers.

Orakwao Dowuona

July 26, 2011

I met Kevin Mack in Kalamazoo in 1978, I was a new student from Africa
totally clueless about American society, and he was very welcoming and friendly. His name has stayed in my head ever since wondering what happened to him since my graduation in 1980. Even a week ago his name came into my head when recounting my experiences to a friend. Really shocked at the news. Orakwao David Dowuona MD(NY)

Janet Hieshetter

July 26, 2011

Kevin was a force of energy - always smiling, always trying to get you to laugh. Kevin was also a very thoughtful guy - smart, sensitive and willing to go that extra mile for a friend. We were classmates at Kalamazoo College. I lost touch with him until a few years ago when I contacted him about the death of a mutual friend. It was as if we were still on the quad - he hadn't changed and that was comforting. The world has lost one of the good guys. My sympathies to Naoki and the children. May your memories comfort you now during this sad time and keep Kevin with you in the years to come.

July 26, 2011

I met Kevin as a classmate in medical school in Hawaii. Later I met Naoki. Kevin was such a wonderful caring man. Always so passionate about life. He was such a giver and all indications are that he became an even greater giver from the man I remember. Although I have not seen him since then I will forever remember his kindness, humility and friendship. He was always so willing to extend a helping hand. Fa'afetai (thanks) Kevin for all the wonderful memories, your help and your gift of you. My condolences to Naoki and children, as well as Kim and her family. Aloha oe Kevin!!! It was an honor to know you.
Ernie Alaimalo (Pearl City, HI)

Dianne Willer-Sly

July 25, 2011

I was a classmate of Kevin's at Kalamazoo College. I remember him in and out of science classes in Olds-Upton Hall, always smiling and funny. He is missed.

Marta Petter

July 25, 2011

I knew Kevin at K College. Such a warm friendly and inspirational person. So sorry to hear this tragic news and wish family and friends all the best.
Marta Petter "K80" Saugatuck, MI and Chicago, IL

Terri Kline

July 24, 2011

Kevin was one of my Kalamazoo College classmates and part of our Strasbourg group. I will forever cherish the fun we had exploring Paris! So few people have the incredible ability to make everyone and anyone feel important....it was Kevin's gift to all of us. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Mary Harrington

July 24, 2011

I was so sorry to hear about Kevin's passing. He was one of the kindest people I knew. Such a great teacher, a mentor. Taught me so much while at Cambridge. I always smile when I think of Kevin. I am so sorry for your loss. It is just so sad.

Kay Moeller

July 24, 2011

Kevin's Mother, Kathleen Allen Mack, was my 1st cousin. Her passing last February was sad for Kevin. It gives me comfort to know that they are together again. God bless all those who will miss Kevin so much. You are in my prayers.

July 22, 2011

While I have not stayed in touch with Kevin, I remember him from my years at Kalamazoo. It is always sombering to hear about such an impactful person passing away much too early. My prayers are with the family. Dick Goodman, Kalamazoo.

Chris Mende

July 22, 2011

I'm so very sad that Kevin has left this "go round" and gone on to whatever is next. I'm hoping his spirit travels in the way it wants to, being welcomed, loved, and embraced. His presence with us was much too brief, but deeply felt may so many. I'm amazed how profound his loss feels to me, who knew him at San Francisco General mostly in the halls and at various noontime events in the Psychiatry Dept. I have such a clear, resonant sense of him - his engaging smile, his genuine and expressed concern for others, his sparkling eyes...
To his husband and children: my deepest condolences.

Sarah Hoy-Vogel

July 21, 2011

Naoki, Kim, and Michael,
I share your grief in Kevin's loss. Kevin was such a light in this world.You may not know that my parents were very fond of him as well, and I know they greeted him at his journey's end. I'm so sorry that it came too soon for the rest of us who knew him. We can only hope to be as supportive to one another as he was for us...

Kathy Kittle

July 21, 2011

A person who touched so many, and made us better people by his daily example of unconditional love. Kevin will be watching over all of us and especially his beautiful family. Peace, my friend.

Chad Belicena

July 20, 2011

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal. Kevin was an excellent clinician, a friend to nursing and from what I have gathered, a wonderful family man. RIP Dr. Mack.

Mireya Lopez

July 20, 2011

Indeed, a simple man with kindness in his heart and well respected around his colleages, friends, and family. A doctor, a teacher, a friend, a spouse, but most importantly, a devoted father with a great love and tenderness for his children. With deepest sympathy I extend my condolences to his family, spouse and children. "I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." Psalm 91:2. MEL from SFGH.

Phyllis Morton

July 20, 2011

I was truly saddened when I heard of this unexpected loss. Kevin Mack was just one of the warmest and kindest people I remember from my tenure in SFGH Psychiatry. My sincere sympathy and prayers to his family, Spouse and children.

Paula

July 19, 2011

A kind, beautiful, gentle man. He gave without ego or expectation.

Donna Langston

July 19, 2011

Mes condoléances à la famille à cette époque de profonde perte. Je n'ai rencontré Kevin il ya deux mois, mais son impression est durable.

David Chen

July 19, 2011

Naoki, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. Roll Fog Roll.

Scott Loveridge

July 19, 2011

On behalf of the Kalamazoo College Class of 1980, I wish to extend my condolences to all whose lives were touched by Kevin. He lived up to the College motto "Lux Esto" which is loosely translated as "Be Light." He lit up the room, and was obviously a man of many accomplishments dedicated in service to others.

Christopher O'Rourke

July 19, 2011

Everyone at the Paulist Center in Boston remembers Kevin with such tenderness: his warmth and his wonderful smile are remembered by everyone. Our prayers are with his friends and family!

E Murks

July 19, 2011

While I did not know Kevin personally, my partner did, and I have great empathy for his family and those suffering through his loss. I will keep them in my thoughts.

Randy Hurst

July 19, 2011

Kevin, we are all better people having known you. I love you and am so sad you're gone, but I know you're among us still with that winning smile, kindness, humor and compassion.....Randy Hurst

July 19, 2011

My heartfelt message to you all - Kim - I think now of Marlene and how she so loves you and Kevin - Our many conversations - it seems as though I too know you both through her. My thoughts and prayers for Naoki and their lovely children. Thinking of you today and each day in Spirit, Linda Boes-Best (Michigan)

sherri franklin

July 18, 2011

The world has lost a very special person, Kevin was a friend, a true man with compassion and joy all the way around, my heart breaks for everyone one of us that he touched. My thoughts and prayers to Naoki, Acki and Nobu.

Patrick Hensler

July 18, 2011

Kevin and I met at what was then a small, all-boys Catholic high school on the East side of Detroit and we could not have been more different. Everyone at our school was close but he and I had completely different interests and really didn't spend a lot of time together until I decided to get involved with the Drama club in our Senior year. We learned a lot from each other.

Our high-school classmates were in dis-belief when we decided to become roommates at Kalamazoo College. They said it would never work - we were the Odd Couple - and he was Felix.

It worked great as we got through Freshman year only knowing each other initially. Kevin was a great friend.

When we each of us had our struggles, we picked each other up. He, usually by dragging me to church with him, which I will never forget and value endlessly today.

Neither of us had any money, but I will never forget when I had a family issue back in Detroit right around the time of my birthday. I had no means at the time to get home. He gave me a birthday card with $20 in it - I have no idea how he got it. That was enough for round-trip train fare from Kalamazoo to Detroit. That's what he was all about. I will never forget that.

Kevin and I lost touch, as happened with most of my college friends, but I thought about him often. His family provided great support to me.

Naoki - I regret not meeting you but know that you feel blessed to have the time you had. God bless you and your family

[email protected]

Candace Thompson

July 18, 2011

My Sweet Friend, The world is diminished in your absence. I am so grateful to have known you. You immediately wrapped me in your warmth. I know why Naoki loved you so, why we all loved you so. Your goodness was rare and deep. We will go on remembering you in the simplest touch, the slightest smile, the deepest love. Lucky, lucky me to have known such a you.

My heart is with you Naoki, and the children. I am wishing you all a healing balm and good friends to carry you to a place where joy is all that remains.
With you in prayer and spirit,
Candace

Susan Hensler Orlikowski

July 18, 2011

My sympathy to Michael and all of Kevin's family, I knew the Mack brothers while attending Kalamazoo College.

Kendall & Linda Gramatky Smith

July 18, 2011

We met Kevin (having already known Naoki, who designed our websites) eight years ago at the wedding of our son Andrew to Letitia. And then three years ago Kevin literally saved Linda's life when he learned from Andrew that a CT scan had shown she had a tumor in her pancreas, and it was Kevin who urged us to move quickly. She went to Johns Hopkins and all is well, but she didn't realize what a crisis this was until Kevin said he'd learned as a resident to "never mess with the pancreas".

Thank you, dear Kevin, and may Aki and Nobu and Naoki always feel your presence close to them. You were a real visionary and Giver, and we are glad to learn that we can give to a trust fund for your wonderful children. Blessings, Ken & Linda

Cynthia So

July 18, 2011

Kevin will be deeply missed by his students. He showed us that he truly cared about our well-being, and became more of a friend than merely a professor. Thank you to Naoki, Chiaki, and Nobu for sharing him with us. We only hope someday to make Kevin proud by practicing medicine in his extraordinarily caring, compassionate, and insightful manner.

Bob Loxley

July 18, 2011

One of my fondest memories of Kevin and Naoki was their annual Christmas party in Cambridge MA when tons of food and sushi were on the menu. Kevin always insisted on games and sing-alongs to which several of us would roll our eyes! Only he, with his bouldless enthusiasm, could turn "The Ten Days of Christmas" song into a contest and have everyone singing and laughing. My thoughts are with you, Naoki.

Jim Peterson

July 18, 2011

Kevin was the light of reason for Harmon Hall At K-zoo. He kept us remembering & living our christian ideals. Recall fondly a Saturday in Spring when he asked if I would like to go to church. I did and have remembered that mass more than any other in my life. God Bless, Kevin, and our prayers are with your family.

Dawn Levreau

July 18, 2011

What if the brilliant, twinkling stars that bring the dark night sky to life are windows looking out of heaven? And at the very moment when we're wishing on those stars, hoping that the loved ones we have lost are happy, safe, and free...maybe they are looking at those same stars from the other side, making the same wish for us...sending us all their love. My deepest sympathies.

David Albertson

July 18, 2011

A rosary and candle at St. Joseph Catholic Church will also recall the light Kevin brought into the world. We know where he has taken this light, and we will join ours to his once again in God's time.

Maureen Mickus

July 18, 2011

I can't think of a better phrase than "salt of the earth" to describe Kevin Mack. He was a person who always thought of others first. As my dear friend at Kalamazoo College, we spent many hours talking, singing, just hanging out together. I knew I could call Kevin at any time of the day or night and he would be there for me. He was brilliant, personable and caring. He worked extremely hard for his education and chose the right line of work--a healing profession. Kevin healed people just be being with them. He had loving parents, terrific siblings, and though I never knew his husband and children, I'm sure he was an incredible father and spouse. The world has lost a very, very special person. I feel enormous sadness knowing that he is gone, but also am sure that my life was greatly enriched for having Kevin Mack as part of it. May he rest in peace.

Manny Lim

July 18, 2011

I met Kevin and Naoki when they lived in Boston in the mid-1990s and attended Mass at the Paulist Center. Both were always a joy to be around, but I'll continue to remember Kevin as full of joy, optimism, and tremendous compassion for all of humanity. The news was a terrible shock, and he will certainly be missed. My love to Naoki and their children.

Daniel McGrath

July 17, 2011

Kevin was one of the kindest, smartest, wittiest, most humanitarian people I’ve had the privilege to know. His spouse is Japanese, they’ve got 2 kids who went to preschool with my kids, and Kevin moved here from Boston around the same time I did. He and I had a lot in common. I’d always give him a big hug when we got together at BBQs or at a kid’s birthday party and we’d talk smack about the Yankees.

Now, in the blink of an eye, he’s gone. The knowledge that death can come suddenly and randomly to anyone doesn’t provide solace at a time like this. His beautiful kids, ages 4 and 7, lost their father and Naoki lost his husband. I also feel for Kevin's patients, many of whom were battling addiction, bipolar disorders, and suicidal tendencies. This is such a tragic loss for so many people....

Thomas and Rose Sheehy

July 17, 2011

We have known Kevin since he was a teen-ager in Detroit. Even at that time he was very special. His sense of humor, his smile and his generosity toward everyone was evident even then. We will miss this wonderful man. God bless his family and watch over them.

July 17, 2011

Sincere condolences to the Mack family on your loss, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Al Biland (K'80)

Diane Dupuis

July 17, 2011

A quality of Kevin's that I'll always remember from when we were students at Kalamazoo College is his capacity for silliness. When someone so brilliant, vigorous, and caring can also yield to pure goofiness, the combination is irresistible. May his light always shine.

Kim, Steve & Grayson Brezniak

July 17, 2011

We met Kevin and Naoki and the kids at St. Agnes. Kevin ALWAYS made a point to give us hugs and to check in. He was someone who had the gift of giving you his full attention (even when you were droning on and on about the unimportant stuff). Our hearts go out to you Naoki, Aki and Nobu We know that Kevin is at home with God (and probably giving him a major talking to about the Church and Prop 8)....But it you and all the others who loved him who are now left with such a profound loss. Please know we are all loving and praying for you. Hugs and deepest condolences.

Steven Woloszyk

July 17, 2011

Kevin was one of the most dedicated and gentle people I had the opportunity of knowing. My sincere condolences to the entire Mack family.

Sandra Waszak

July 17, 2011

I know Kevin, Naoki, the children, via our dogs. My love for them is through the lens of dog, but Kevin let me see his heart, and he is in mine.

Dan Cameron

July 17, 2011

Naoki,

Sorry for your loss. Kevin was a great man and a true friend. My thoughts and prays are with you and your family at this very difficult time.

Linda Gallego & Rita Hamilton

July 17, 2011

We are so very sorry to hear this sad news. We often recall a lovely backyard party in our backyard, Kevin and Naoki surrounded by joyful friends and colleagues. We send our love and prayers to every member of this special family.

Bob Buckley

July 17, 2011

Kevin had the gift of paying full attention to each person he met - a warm and respectful attention that brought out the best in others. He helped each person to remember themselves and their best goals.

Liza and Dan Cameron

July 17, 2011

Naoki,
My heart goes out to you and the kids. Kevin was a wonderful man and will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

West Nelson

July 17, 2011

I met Kevin at Kalamazoo College and I have always remembered his laugh. He and his family are in my prayers and thoughts.

Harvey Dickson

July 17, 2011

I haven't seen Kevin since we graduated from Kalamazoo College 31 years ago but even today I can feel his irrepressible energy. ?????????????.

Patty Robertson

July 16, 2011

My love and thoughts are with your family at this very difficult time. Kevin was an amazing teacher, colleague and friend. May his infectious joy of life be always present with us in our remembrance of him. Patty Robertson MD, UCSF

July 16, 2011

We knew Kevin in college and remember him fondly as friendly, kind, intelligent, and always cheerful. Please accept Brad's and my deepest condolences for your lost. Julie Fudge Smith and Brad Smith (Granville, OH)

Kristin Comstock

July 16, 2011

I went to Kalamazoo College with Kevin. I will always remember his ready smile and sense of humor. He will be sorely missed by the class of 1980. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Ann Woloszyk

July 16, 2011

My thought and prayers are with your family. Kevin was an inspiration to all. May God continue to watch over all your love ones. I knew that Kevin was destined for great things in his life. I'm so glad I had the pleasure of growing up with him in my chidlhood. You will be missed.

Christine

July 16, 2011

It may have been 20 years since I have seen Kevin and Naoki but their energy and joy of all things cannot be forgotten. Some people stay with you forever no matter the distance. Kevin will always be that person.

UCSF-MedCenter

July 16, 2011

Please accept our deepest sympathies.

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