Donald Joseph Fernbach

1925 - 2013

Donald Joseph Fernbach obituary, 1925-2013, Houston, TX

BORN

1925

DIED

2013

FUNERAL HOME

Earthman Hunters Creek Funeral Home

8303 Katy Fwy

Houston, Texas

Donald Fernbach Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Sep. 23, 2013.

Donald Joseph Fernbach, M.D. 88, died on September 22, 2013 in Houston, TX. Don was born to Jules and Dorothy Hever Fernbach in Brooklyn, NY on the 10th of April 1925.

As a precocious young boy he loved exploring the Museum of Natural Science in NYC and spent so much time there that they asked him to be a docent. He was active in scouting, earning the rank of Eagle Scout by age 14. Don was a WWII Army veteran with the 100th Infantry Division who served in the European Theater and was awarded a Bronze Star for bravery and heroism.

He graduated from Tusculum College in Greeneville, TN in 1948. He received his medical degree from George Washington University School of Medicine in 1952. He entered his residency in pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine as one of its first residents.

Following his pediatric residency, he completed a residency in pediatric pathology at Children's Medical Center and Harvard University School of Medicine in Boston followed by a fellowship in hematology and oncology. In 1957, he returned to Texas and joined the faculty at Baylor College of Medicine, founding the Research Hematology-Oncology Service at Texas Children's Hospital in 1958, now known as the Texas Children's Cancer Center. From 1957-1991 Dr. Fernbach served as the Head of the Hematology and Oncology Section of the Department of Pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine; Chief of the Hematology and Oncology Service at Texas Children's Hospital; and Director of the Research Hematology Laboratory at Texas Children's Hospital. During his tenure at Baylor, he became a professor of pediatrics and published more than 160 scientific articles.

He was the co-editor and author of the first textbook on Clinical Pediatric Oncology and enjoyed being a faculty mentor to physician scientists, many who are now leaders in this field. His research team discovered the value of cyclophosphamide, which has become of one of the most effective and widely used chemotherapy agents for adults as well as children. As the director of the Blood Transfusion Services at Texas Children's Hospital from 1957-1971, he was the first physician in Houston to use a plastic blood bagging system and one of the first anywhere to use blood component therapy for children. He performed the first bone marrow transplant from one identical twin to another to treat aplastic anemia. He led the effort to develop newborn screening for sickle cell disease years before it became a state mandate. In 1978, he helped start the Ronald McDonald House Houston along with pivotal parent leaders. And to protect the children in his care, he led the movement to ban smoking in the Texas Medical Center.

Dr. Fernbach was awarded an American Cancer Society Professorship of Clinical Oncology and the first Elise C. Young Chair of Pediatric Oncology at Baylor College of Medicine, which he held until his retirement in 1991. Among his numerous awards, he received a citation from the Texas Division of the American Cancer Society for leadership in securing coverage for children with cancer under the Crippled Children's Services of Texas. He received a Distinguished Faculty Award by the Baylor College of Medicine Alumni. He was honored by the Leukemia Society of America, Houston Chapter; Friends of Houston Hospice; Ronald McDonald House Houston; and received the Gibson D. Lewis Award for Clinical Activities in Cancer Control by the Texas Cancer Council. In 1993, he received the St. George Medal in recognition for outstanding contribution to the control of cancer by the American Cancer Society - National Division. In 2006, the Houston Alumnae of Kappa Alpha Theta honored Dr. Fernbach and his contributions to the treatment of pediatric cancer and his love of teaching by establishing the Donald J. Fernbach M.D. Lectureship Series at Texas Children's Hospital.

Even though Don was born in New York, he considered himself a true Texan, owning a small ranch, an old pair of boots, an antique pickup, and spending countless hours in the saddle of his tractor. He was a voracious reader and particularly loved WWII history. He was also an avid letter writer and loved to write editorial letters to the Houston Post under the pseudonym Joe Bach.

He dearly loved his family and is survived by his wife of 59 years, Freddie Lucille Fernbach, his sisters; Dorothy Campbell, (Johnson City, TN), L. Virginia Fernbach, (Alexandria, VA), his children; Susan Fernbach and Peter Boudreaux, Judy and Chris Simon, Karin and Gene Kraft (Olympia, WA), Don and Karen Fernbach and his beloved grandchildren; Fritz and Karl Kraft, Andre and Camille Boudreaux, Christopher and Mia Simon, Allison and Tyler Fernbach.

We thank the physicians and nurses who have provided superb care for Don over the years, Dr. James Herlihy, the BCM Geriatrics team and Dr. Christopher Nevins. We also thank his caregivers Celain Anthony, Beatriz Cortez and for the loving care provided by Houston Hospice.

A memorial service is to be conducted at ten o'clock in the morning on Saturday, the 12th of October at St. Michael Catholic Church, 1801 Sage Road in Houston. Immediately following, all are invited to greet the family during a reception in the Parish Life Center. Dr. Fernbach will be inurned at the Houston National Cemetery in a private service with military honors.

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be directed to the Texas Children's Cancer Center, 1919 S. Braeswood Blvd., Suite 5214, Houston, Texas 77030; Ronald McDonald House Houston, 1907 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030; The Periwinkle Foundation, 3400 Bissonnet, Suite 185, Houston, TX 77005; or a charity of one's choice.

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

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October 14, 2013

Tina Goodrich

I'm so sorry to hear of Don's passing. I remember my trip to Kentucky for the 50th reunion of the 100th Infantry in 1995 with my mom and dad. We later went on to tour Indiana and stayed in Brown County at a lodge dad had visited as a young man. It was the first time I had met Don and remember him as a compassionate, intelligent man. Many fine memories... Blessings to your family.

October 14, 2013

My son was a patient of Dr. Fernbach,s 34 years ago. We were in the parking lot in those days. He was the kindest most accessible Dr anyone could ask for . Timmy didn't t live but was treated with such love and respect. We helped as little as we could with the first RMH. 33years later I volunteer at TCH for RMH . I can t thank him enough for all he did for my toddler. Joanne hansen

October 14, 2013

Mike Goodrich

My condolences to the Fernbach family. My dad always spoke fondly of Don, both from their Army days and in later years when they reconnected. We're very sorry for your loss and are keeping you in our thoughts during this difficult time.

October 13, 2013

Sara McDaniel

A witty conversationalist and a great doctor. He made a difference in so many lives. His memory lives on.

October 11, 2013

Mary Nugent.

Mrs Fernbach, Susan, Judy and all the family, my mother, Leonor Smith and I want to send our heartfelt condolences on Dr Fernbach's passing. We know he is embraced in paradise by our Lord and Savior. May you be comforted in the days and weeks ahead. Dr Fernbach made such a contribution to so many lives. I was honored to have crossed his path while he was on this earth. May God bless you all.

October 11, 2013

CAROL & WT BYLER CO.

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

October 10, 2013

Richard Gebhard

Dear Mrs Fernbach, Don, Karen, Susie and Judy,

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your husband and father, and since hearing the news from young Don, I couldn't help but reminisce a bit about growing up with you all.

It was some 40+ years ago when you moved in across the street when we found ourselves, me on one side sitting on the curb, and Donald - what we called him back then, DJ to his daddy - and Karen on the other, all wondering what to make of newcomers and new surroundings. Eventually, one of us broke the stalemate and we became life long friends…and the memories began.

My memories of your dad do not begin with his remarkable medical career and all those he helped - I became aware of that much later in my life - but rather as a young kid growing up across the street, who was always in his house or pool along with the Fernbach kids; I remember what kids remember.

Within an instant from when I heard from Don about Dr Fernbach's passing, some fond memories came rushing back…

I knew I shouldn't touch his tools in the shop - young Don made that clear - and I witnessed him dispatch a Cotton Mouth in Columbus with nothing more than a pocket knife and a putter. I remember Don, Karen and I deciding we should own guinea pigs one year, and had the brilliant idea of building a cage for them…outside…underground. Your dad's reaction was priceless… the cage looked good, but at a foot or so deep and chicken wire for a roof, what were we going to do when it rained?

Always kind and quick witted, I remember that I liked to be around him back then, even though he kept you on your toes. As an adult, he seemed always happy to see me, and for that I am truly honored and grateful.

I am so sad for your loss, but his was a life to be celebrated by all that knew and loved him; his life touched so many others, and his legacy will live on for years to come.

God Bless him and you; you are all in my prayers.

Ricky

October 10, 2013

Ken Gebhard

My condolences to the Fernbach family. It was a privilege and pleasure to know him. Great man with a great family!

October 10, 2013

Sami Rahman

What a wonderfu gentleman and colleague! I am so thankful for all he accomplished to take Pediatric Cancer treatment in such a positive direction.

October 5, 2013

Dr. Fernbach took such wonderful care of my dear little sister, Katie, at Texas Children's Hospital from 1964-1969. He made her feel comfortable and loved for those years. We will not forget him. What a beloved man!

October 3, 2013

Dorothy Fernbach Campbell

You were the sweetest brother anyone could ever ask for, but I know you're in a better place now. You'll always be in my heart.

Love you forever, Dorothy

October 2, 2013

Jay & Wendy Papasan

Deepest sympathies to the Fernbach family. It's clear Dr. Fernbach had an amazing impact on the many lives he touched. What a wonderful legacy for your family. We'll keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

October 2, 2013

David Murchison

My condolences to the extended Fernbach family for the loss of such a wonderful man. I know that you can take comfort from the tremendous humanitarian legacy of Dr. Fernbach, as evidenced by the many heartfelt tributes here. I was greatly moved when reading them. Let the knowledge that his mission lives on through his impact and influence on those he taught and treated raise your spirits.

September 30, 2013

Sean Kelley

Dear Fernbach family:
I was saddened to hear of your father's passing yet we all know he earned his Angel's wings long ago. Of all the people I have come to know in my life, I don't know of any person who has had a more profound impact on my life and those of my family. Most importantly, at least from my perspective, he saved my life. The pioneering work he did in the understanding and treatment of pediatric cancers has saved untold numbers of children here and around the world. I say this because he never would. For those who knew him, your father was never the braggart; he was always focused on the problem at hand. Whether it was caring for children with cancer, building a world renowned center, developing new treatments, leading and inspiring the effort to build the Houston Ronald McDonald House or being a great Dad and husband to a loving family, he did it with a single minded purpose. His life was a labor of love for God's children. For this and many other reasons, I am a better person for having known him. To that end, I am forever indebted to him. My mother worked with your father to build the House and I believe she was doing so to repay the same debt. The rest of the family is doing so as well. A lasting tribute to your father is the fact that my siblings and I have dedicated our careers to advancing the care of children, especially those with serious illness. Please know that your father and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. My prayer is that our Lord, Jesus Christ, comforts your family during this time, cares for your father and continues to bless your family.

September 29, 2013

Charmaine Mansour

Freddie, I'm sure your heart is broken over your lose of this dear, sweet man. I will never forget his loving smile.

September 29, 2013

Patrick Kelley

Donald Fernbach, MD

You saved my brother and best friend's life at a time when pediatric oncology had few successes and few had the courage to endure the challenge. For that, I am forever indebted. You are a true man in every sense of the word, always humble and focused on the action and result, shying from the fanfare. I have always looked at you as an example for what I hope to become....

Patrick Kelley, MD
Chief Craniofacial and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery
Dell Children's Medical Center

September 27, 2013

Janice Olson

My thoughts are with Freddie, Judy and all the family. I am remembering Dr. Fernbach as one of my most influential teachers. As a trainee in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, from the latter days of RHL through temporary quarters across the street, I remember lively discussions in the break room, WWII stories and my boss and leader, Don Fernbach, as the Santa at every employee Christmas party we had! I greatly respect his utter committment to high quality, cost sensitive, customer friendly, compassionate care; I hope that I have carried that torch forward in my career. I will forever be in his debt and I thank his family for sharing him with us for so many years.

September 27, 2013

Richard Wainerdi

Dr. Fernbach was a great credit to the TMC and to TCH. I often asked his help, and he always gave it generosely. He will be greatly misssed.
Richard E. Wainerdi, Ph.D., President Emeritus, Texas Medical Center

September 27, 2013

Dick East

When I visualize Dr. Fernbach transitioning to heaven, I visualize all the kids including mine that are there to greet him. Those are the kids that lost the battle that we all fought together but with Dr. Fernbach leading the way we learned and learned and learned and today we are so far ahead of where we were back then. Thank you Don Fernbach for all you did for all the kids and for all you did for us the parents as well. Rest in Peace.

Dick East

September 26, 2013

Shirley Talley

Dr. Fernbach treated our son many years ago at TCH. He was such a kind and gentle person, always suggesting the very best for our family. My sincere sympathy to those he leaves behind.

September 26, 2013

Dear Judy and all your family,

We are so sorry for your loss. Our hearts and prayers are with you all. Your father was a wonderful doctor and will be missed by many besides your dear family. With deep sympathy, Arnie and Sue Kestner

September 26, 2013

I got to know Dr. Fernbach when I was a patent of his while in TCH . He was a great guy to be around with when I felt bad. He will be missed. RIP Doc

September 26, 2013

Dorothy Clark

I was so sorry to learn of Dr. Fernbach's death. I worked in Research Hematology for many years and had the utmost respect for him as a person and as a physician. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family.

September 25, 2013

Kathy and Tim Heagle

Rest in peace Uncle Don. You will be greatly missed!

September 25, 2013

Stuart Cohan

I remember Don from our early days of practice, and the empathetic ways in which he dealt with the parents of children who would not survive their newly diagnosed leukemia. He was my hero. Stuart Cohan, Houston

September 24, 2013

So very sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Michelle McNaughton

September 24, 2013

Rusty Darsey

Don and family, I can remember a few years back sitting in the farm house in Columbus sharing stories with your Dad of days gone by. We laughed and cried, but we rejoiced in those memories. It was an honor and privilege to know your father. No matter how bad we messed up growing up, he only showed kindness and patience towards me. I miss him greatly. He will certainly be missed by all. God bless you all during this time. Rusty

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