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Henry S. Richanbach ’48

Henry Secord Richanbach ’48, April 14, 2003, in San Mateo. Henry received a BA degree in biology from Reed, and then attended the University of Oregon, receiving an MD in 1952 with a specialty in pediatrics. He completed his residency at the East Bay (Oakland) Children’s Hospital and at the Stanford pediatric program. His practice in Burlingame (1955–77) focused on treatment for children with developmental and physical disabilities. A partner in the practice, Dr. Samuel Leavitt, cited that Henry "felt strongly about equality for everyone and practiced that not only in medicine, but in all areas of his life." In the ’60s, Henry helped write a bill for the California legislature mandating school resources for children with disabilities—a model for a later federal bill. In 1979, he concluded a fellowship at UCLA in developmental pediatrics, and earned a master’s degree in public health from University of California, Berkeley, in 1982, specializing in maternal and child health. Following that, Henry opened a practice in San Mateo, and traveled and consulted throughout the state on the issues of children with disabilities. His research and clinical work on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was considered innovative. Henry was said to have been an inspiration to many, to possess a great sense of humor, and to have enjoyed cooking and travel. He and Jean Stern ’51 raised three sons during their marriage, and later divorced. Survivors include his sons; wife Etta Bryant Richanbach, whom he married in 1982, and her 4 children; 11 grandchildren; and a sister.

Appeared in Reed magazine: August 2003

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