Walter Harvey Jacobs, M.D. Obituary (1929 - 2012)

Walter Harvey Jacobs, M.D., former President of the American College of Gastroenterology, passed away October 1, 2012. He had been battling dementia for a number of years. He was born February 13, 1929 in Brooklyn, New York, to Clara and Irving Jacobs, respectively a special needs teacher and an ophthalmologist, and was a graduate of New York University and Chicago Medical School. He received his specialty training in Gastroenterology at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in New York City under the auspices of the renowned Henry Janowitz, M.D., the leading pioneer in the field of Gastroenterology. Dr. Jacobs practiced with the Statland Clinic for his entire career until his retirement in 2006. He was one of the very first Gastroenterologists in the lower Midwest and in his positions as Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of Kansas Medical School and Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine at UMKC Medical School, was responsible for training many of those who practice around the nation today. He also conducted research in the area of pancreatic cancer and served as Past President of the Medical Staff at Menorah Medical Center. He was both a member of Oakwood Country Club and The New Reform Temple prior to his illness. He was an avid reader and accomplished sport fisherman. He leaves behind his children: Dr. Andrew Jacobs; Jacqueline Jacobs Caster (Andrew) of Pacific Palisades, CA; Joanne Jacobs Newman (Mark) of Northbrook, IL; Cornelia Jacobs and Josh Jacobs. Survivors also include 6 grandchildren: Jonathan and Gregory Jacobs; Stephanie and Melanie Newman; and Bryce and Jocelyn Caster. He also leaves: his brother, Robert Jacobs of Pembroke Pines, FL; his companion, Mrs. Betty Ford; as well as many grateful patients. Many thanks to his dedicated medical partner and friend, Gustave Eisemann, M.D. as well as to Howard Stark and the late Bernard Brown for their lifelong friendships and loyalty. Services will be private. The family requests that any donations be made to The Everychild Foundation, P.O. Box 1808, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 or the charity of your choice.