Richard Wolfe Keesal

In Memory of

Richard Wolfe Keesal

May 14, 2017 marks one year that Richard Wolfe Keesal, MD, FACP, died a questionable death in a Sarasota nursing rehab facility.

Richard was born In Philadelphia, PA March 12, 1940; his father, Chief of Medicine at Pennsylvania Hospital and his mother, a homemaker. Both were known for their philanthropy. His parents stressed superior outcomes for all they did.

Rick, as his friends called him, did his medical training at the University of Pennsylvania, Hahneman Medical College and Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, PA. He later honed his skills at Hertzler Clinic in Halstead, KS, home of the famous horse and buggy doctor. Both he and his wife liked Kansas, but found the winters very difficult. Ready to do it alone, Rick opened his first practice at 222 E, Bullard Parkway in Temple Terrace, Florida. Tampa was his home.

His closest family predeceased him. Rick was known for his dry sense of humor, his toothy grin, his assuring, calm demeanor, his kindness, his dedication and his unending service to his patients. Rick often said a day was great when all his surgical interventions were a cure. Not interested in monetary reward, he often wore old shoes, old clothes, and his father's old watch. Demanding of all who worked with him in surgery, he had very few post-surgical infections or complications. He did difficult cases with much success and had an impeccable reputation for his excellence. He is deeply missed by associates, patients and friends. In his later years, Richard devoted his time to pain management. As usual, he was very committed to his work and his patients. If Rick were alive today, he would be sad at the state of our world. He was the closest person to me in my life. I am unable to say goodbye. I pray we will meet again.

In lieu of any remembrances, please give as much as you can to the American Cancer Society and the American Heart Association.