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Michael Appel Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Michael Appel
Nelsy
July 29, 2024
I still think of you since you were my mentor. You taught me so much. I will always remember how much I learned while working at Kelsey Seybold. Rest in Peace.
Kelly J. Kirkland
October 21, 2021
Dr. Appel saved my life, and he made me laugh while he was doing it. After one operation, I woke up to find him hovering over me. He said, "I'll say this for you, Kelly. You're tougher than you look." Then he personally went to get me another blanket. I have never met anyone like him.
Nelsy Gray
December 12, 2020
I had the pleasure of working for Dr. Appel at Kelsey Seybold. I had been hired to work him. It was a 5 surgeon practice. Once I started I was assigned to work with him. Every one said he was difficult, but instead I found myself working with a great man. He was always so encouraging of me to go back to school and go for medical school. I was unable to go since I was a single mom. What he taught me was to do my job well and with confidence. He was and will always have him in my heart. He really mentored me and still carry what he taught me. After all these years I still feel the same. He touched my life and I remember how lucky I was to have worked with him. He taught me so much including the we are our patients Avocate , looking out for our patients. I can never forget the lessons he taught me. We did colonscopy at the office and he would have a teaching scope that his students could see what he did and when no students I got to watch with him and just being so excited as he taught me. Adel was his secretary way back then as well. He was my mentor and I always get reminded of all that he taught me. Rest in peace Dr. Appel, thank you for your incredible of having worked you. ❤ Again thank you!!!
Nelsy Gray
December 12, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Nelsy Gray
December 11, 2020
I went to work for him at Kelsey Seybold after he had broken his leg after skiing. He has always stayed in my mind, very special. He taught me so much, I was his Nurse at the office. To me he was a great mentor. He always taught me to never back down, for instance, he said never back down from a doctors order that you feel they might be wrong. Doctors put on their pants one at a time like every one else. He wanted me to go to medical school, but I was a single mom. He also taught me how to work with him during colonoscopy. I will never forget what an incredible mentor for me. Rest in Peace ❤
Shauna Thornton
October 26, 2019
Dr. Appel saved my life. I have utmost respect for him as my surgeon. From the day I met him, I trusted him. But as I got to know him, I just so enjoyed him as a person. He not only was an excellent surgeon, he was also a kind, funny, amazing person. My deepest condolences to his wife and family for their loss. He was a truly special man.
Shauna Thornton
Johnita & Robert Lebow
August 10, 2019
We were grateful to know Michael as a life-saving surgeon and friend. He was a true hero to the Houston community for the many lives he helped save through his expertise as a great surgeon. Our condolences to his wife, Madeleine.
Gil Jackson MD
August 8, 2019
I practiced Surgery with Mike at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital and also for a time at Kelsey Seybold Clinic. He was always a noble gentleman with colleagues and admiring patients. He excelled in warm communication and in advancing the Art of Surgery. He excelled in "herding cats' when serving for many years as the Chief of Surgery. He tried to stay in shape through vigorous exercise including biking to the hospital, rowing, and long distance sporting events.
I will miss his warm personality and as a friend and colleague.
Gil Jackson MD, FACS
Gilda Hundley
August 8, 2019
My sincerest condolences to the Appel Family, especially Sarah Appel Lyons and Leslie Appel. My prayers are with you in your time of sorrow. May your memories of your Uncle bring you peace.
Love and Warmth.....Mrs. Hundley
Michael Coburn
August 7, 2019
I was Dr. Appels surgery intern in 1982, and a colleague for decades since. I knew him as a master surgeon, a dedicated teacher and mentor, and an extraordinarily kind and compassionate man. It was a privilege to have known him.
Beverly Harris
August 6, 2019
Madeleine, I just now read Michael's obit. What a vibrant, inspiring and meaningful life he led. My thoughts are with you and your family as you try to adjust to your loss.
Dillon Valdez
August 6, 2019
Dr Appel was loved by his patients and staff, he was the father figure to st Luke's endoscopy staff. He was concerned for everyone's well being. Until we meet again Rest In Peace Dr Appel
Angela Burnett
August 4, 2019
I have know Dr. Appel since I started working at St. Luke's 40 years ago.He always said I was a tiny baby nurse At that time. He was my favorite. Always very supportive of me and the endoscopy department. If he had an issue with me and the department he would address it with me and I respected him for that. Also, he was a patient advocate, which I admired. He will always have a special place in my heart ❤! RIH Dr. Appel.
Laura Portwood
August 4, 2019
Madeleine, I'm so sorry to see this news and the reason for your move.
Tracey Hurley wetzel
August 3, 2019
I worked with Dr. Appel for at least 30 years. I learned so much from him, he was an awesome teacher, and mentor. He was very supportive of the nursing staff, and helped me to be a better nurse. I sure missed him when he retired.i have never met another Dr. who cared so much for his pts. Always cognitive of the cost of things, and never ordered anything that was not necessary. I hope you know how loved he was, and will never be replaced in our hearts.
Sophia Bates Groggs
August 3, 2019
Dr Appel was a great man great Surgeron And friend I worked with him for 19 yrs at St Luke.he will truly Be missed praying for his wife and his family !
Ellen Burns Creakbaum
August 3, 2019
We have lost a great physician. I worked with him on 15T and in the OR at St. Lukes. He taught me to think ahead, to work efficiently and advocate for the patient. Rest now Dr. and good and faithful servant.
Ellen Burns Creakbaum, RN, MS
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