Remembering Dr. Jack M. Docter
Dr. Jack M. Docter, former medical director at Children’s, passed away June 4. He was 92.
Dr. Jack Docter
An immensely popular pediatrician, Docter specialized in the care of children with cystic fibrosis. When he signed on as medical director in 1959, Docter became the first clinician directly employed by Children’s Orthopedic Hospital. He served in that position until 1981.
Along with Dr. Stanley Stamm, he was instrumental in forming the Cardio-Pulmonary Department, which later became the Pulmonary Division.
In addition to his duties at the hospital, Docter was an associate dean representing Children’s at the University of Washington School of Medicine (UWSOM) and believed that the partnership with UWSOM was a key element in being able to offer the best possible care to children of the region. He had said, “Without university participation in its programs, Children’s would be a good community hospital. With university participation, it is a great regional medical center.”
“Jack Docter was one of the most sensitive and thoughtful physicians that I have worked with. It was a pleasure to follow in his footsteps,” says Dr. John Neff, who succeeded Docter as medical director. “He gave wise counsel and never let an uncomplimentary word leave his lips. He continues to be universally respected and loved by all who worked with him.”
Docter is survived by his wife, Marion, and their three children, Jeffrey, Marion and James.
Individuals who wish to make gifts in memory of Dr. Jack Docter are encouraged to direct them to Children’s Hospital Foundation for the benefit of the Jack Docter, M.D., Endowment for Uncompensated Care.