Memorial Resolution for Richard E. Deitrick, MD
Introduced by: Amelia A. Paré, MD and Lawrence R. John, MD, on behalf of the Allegheny County Medical Society
Author: Amelia A. Paré, MD and Lawrence R. John, MD
Whereas, Richard E. Deitrick MD was called from this earth on Friday, August 5, 2011; and
Whereas, Dr. Deitrick served as a delegate from the Allegheny County Medical Society to the Pennsylvania Medical Society for many years, participating vigorously in debate and discussion on many issues affecting medicine and patient care; and
Whereas, Dr. Deitrick was born and raised in Danville, Pennsylvania, and later attended the University of Pittsburgh for his undergraduate and his medical degrees. An athletic standout, receiving varsity letters in baseball, basketball and football, and serving as captain of the basketball and football teams, Dr. Deitrick was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams but declined the draft to pursue his love of medicine; he then entered general practice, and later returned to residency to specialize in obstetrics and gynecology. Dr. Deitrick delivered over 3,000 babies and cared for innumerable patients during a long and busy career, including serving as department Chair at Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh; and
Whereas, Dr. Deitrick served in many offices and positions for the Allegheny County Medical Society, including President in 1988, later receiving the Frederick M. Jacob Award for service to the Society in 1992. Dr. Deitrick also served as Assistant Secretary-Treasurer of the Allegheny County Medical Society Foundation for many years and held that position at the time of his death; and
Whereas, Dr. Deitrick was respected by his peers and was dedicated to his patients and the profession of medicine. That dedication was also demonstrated to his wife, Linda, and their six children: Rich, David (who he practiced with for several years before his retirement, and who serves as a delegate to the Pennsylvania Medical Society), Dan, Jeff, Kevin, and Karen. In later years, the spouses of his children and grandchildren provided another generation of joy to Dr. Deitrick; and
Whereas, Dr. Deitrick will be greatly missed by his many friends and colleagues; therefore be it
Resolved, That the House of Delegates of the Pennsylvania Medical Society observe a moment of silence, recognizing our appreciation for this excellent physician; and be it further
Resolved, That this memorial resolution be recorded in the minutes and a copy sent to his family.