Memorial

We are all saddened by the recent death of Richard D. Amelar, MD, on September 22, 2020, at age 93, his home in New York City surrounded family. Dr. Amelar was an early pioneer utilizing semen analysis and testicular biopsy evaluating male fertility, mentoring many aspiring physicians making major contributions field. inspirational leader field reproductive disorders, a earliest forays into field, generous supporter young Andrologists coming He my close friend for fifty years. After completing medical school University 1950, pursued residency Urology French Hospital Bellevue Medical Center both City, with strong support Robert Hotchkiss, Director Department Urology. This afforded him opportunity to work part time Margaret Sanger Research Bureau which first infertility clinic United States, one that actually evaluated husband wife together, novel approach time. John MacLeod, Clinic laboratory, schooled Scotland legendary techniques biopsy, mentored providing diagnostic tools necessary make further advances From 1954 1956, Richard, Captain States Air Force Corps stationed St John’s, Newfoundland, Canada, served as Chief Service Northeast Command. then entered private practice later Larry Dubin joined him. also active teaching. earned positions Male Infertility Service, Hospital, Professor Clinical School Medicine. Despite robust clinical practice, published more than 125 papers book chapters spanned several topics. These included (1) value analysis; (2) surgical management men obstructive azoospermia; (3) sexual issues impact fertility; (4) negative varicocoele fertility varicocelectomy. Notably, 1966, he “Infertility Men,” four text books along Dr developed classification system varicocoele. sought enlighten Jewish community about important relationship between habits ability achieve pregnancy well ways couples enhance their given some constraints imposed strictly following orthodox Law. For this large body dedication Andrology, honored number occasions. included, among others, “Bruce Stuart Lectureship” from American Urological Association (1990); “Distinguished Andrologist Award” (American Society 1999); Reproductive Medicine, 2002); Jerome S. Coles Alumnus (New University, 2005). endeared us sincere interest special effort encourage learn craft well, facilitate invitations speak scientific forums visibility, never reluctant refer patients second opinion. actions, remarkable compassion showed patients, wonderful endearing traits accomplished confident physician. As emerged gave unique silver sperm lapel-pin mark distinction, “Amelar Club” sorts, share appreciate very personal level. is survived 67 years, Alice Amelar; three daughters, Jessica Sarah Susanna Lodge; grandchildren Joseph, Hannah, Sam. wonderful, compassionate physician, inspiring mentor, dear friend. will miss J. Sherins, MD Past President ASA (1982–1983)