Dr. A. Loren Amacher

Message from Joan, Frank and Emily Purdy

Our daughter Emily was a patient of Dr. Amacher's at Geisinger Medical Center from the time of her 5th birthday in October of 1995 through the rest of his time there. During that time Dr. Amacher had operated on her 12 or 13 times for a rare form of brain tumor. When he left Geisinger, we followed him to Lewisburg so that he could continue to follow her progress and be involved in her care. During the time at Geisinger, he had sent us to CHOP several times for a second opinion regarding her treatment because he made it clear to us that he felt he was emotionally attached to her and wanted to make sure that he was not overlooking any treatment options because of that attachment. As it turned out, they never had anything new or different to offer and they seemed to be very familiar with him and his reputation. My husband and I laughed frequently at how his "bellow" of an order or request would prompt immediate action from the staff there, but we could tell that they responded to it out of their respect for him. When he knew he was considering retirement, he reached out to us and requested one last appointment with Emily so that he could make sure he was satisfied with her health status and so he could refer her back into the Geisinger system because he felt that was where she would continue to receive the standard of care that was acceptable to him. Dr. Amacher spoke often of his family, especially his sons and grandchildren and of his love of the special "lake". We were very said to hear of his passing because we were hoping that he would enjoy a long and health retirement because he had certainly earned it. We hope that you have wonderful memories of him that will sustain you through this difficult time. We will be eternally grateful for knowing him because we know that he his skill and dedication are the reason that Emily is still with us today.
With our deepest sympathy.

Joan, Frank and Emily Purdy

A candle was lit by Elizabeth Gibbons on March 26, 2018 10:02 PM

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Dear Jane. You may not remember me but I’m hoping you do. My name is Betty and I was Dr. Amacher’s secretary in Hartford. I had worked for Dr. Scoville previously. I had a reason to look up Dr. Amacher tonight and was so very sad to read about his death. My first thoughts turned to you, Jane. I remember how you adored him and know how much you will miss him. I only worked for him for three years but remember him as a dedicated doctor and a good and kind man. It was a pleasure to have worked for him and to have known you both. I felt you were my friends. I have often thought about you over the years and wondered how you both were. God bless you and keep you safe and well. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Message from Liz Folk

So sorry to hear of his passing. My son is able to walk because of his expertise and for many years a day didn't go by that I thanked Dr. Amacher for all he did for Matt. Other doctors told us our son would never walk. So on Matt's first birthday I sent a picture to Dr. Amacher of Matt standing on his own. He certainly touched our hearts.

Message from Gary and Marilyn Mitchell

Our deepest sympathy to the family. My memories of Lorne go back 1957 when he spent the summer with my parents, his aunt and uncle, Doug and Elma while working at the Galloway pole plant earning wages to finance his education. I remember well his singing ability.

Message from David Bush -Geisinger

Loren was a trusted friend and colleague. Between cases we often talked about the history of neurosurgery and of course Geisinger leadership and politics. I’m better for having known him. He was a really good one.

Message from Dr. Paul E. Cooper, The Richard and Beryl Ivey Professor and Chair, Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada

Dear Jane and Amacher Family,

On behalf of the Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences in London, Canada I want to express to you all my deepest personal sympathies and the sympathies of all members of the Department. Earlier this year we lost Henry "Barney" Barnett--one of the co-founders of the Department, and now another important founding member of our department has passed on. Lorne was such an important builder of the Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences in London as our first paediatric neurosurgeon. His important legacy is carried on today by the members of the Division of Neurosurgery and the recent designation of what used to be the Paediatric Service at Victoria Hospital now as a bona fide Children's Hospital for London, Ontario.
Lorne's legacy in London continues to be a living legacy. Every day, children from across Southwestern Ontario receive exemplary paediatric neurosurgical care in London to standards that were initiated by Lorne so many years ago.
At this time of loss, the Department keeps you all in our thoughts and prayers. We wish you all peace and hope during this Advent season and God's comfort for your hearts.

Message from The Clarke Family, London ON

Dear Jane, Jon and Marc.
We are so read this news about Loren. What an incredible man with an incredible legacy. Our thoughts are with you all.

The Clarke's from Hickson Ave.
Donna, Paula and Ian.

Message from Adam Howie

I am so sorry for his family's loss. He was an exceptional man and my life saver for the first 14 years of my life. Now44 I just wish I could thank him one more time. Rest in peace Dr. A.

A candle was lit by Pam and Rolando Del Maestro Tiverton, Ontario on December 2, 2017 1:50 PM

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Dear Jane and Family,

"WHAT A PERSON LEAVES AFTER HIM ARE THE DREAMS THAT HIS NAME INSPIRES AND THE WORKS THAT MAKE HIS NAME A SYMBOL OF ADMIRATION".

Paul Valery, a French poet used these words to outline how individuals who have contributed to improving the fabric of humanity are remembered by those who follow. Loren had a multitude of interests including writing, poetry, music and a particularly deep devotion to his patients and loved ones.
As one of his many students and his friend and colleague I am saddened by his passing.
When I went into practice in 1981 I shared an office with Loren at the Memorial Children's Hospital (now Children's Hospital of Western Ontario). Under his mentorship both during my residency but particularly after I went into practice, Loren taught me all I know about paediatric neurosurgery. He was always helpful and outlined by his words and actions how the relationship between a doctor and a paediatric patient formed a very special bond.
I saw Loren on a number of occasions at meetings in Canada and the United States after he left London, Ontario, and he was always interested in hearing about his patients that I had the honour to take care of after he left.
It is with great sadness that Loren is no longer with us to continue to pass on his many gifts. His contributions to medical literature, his patients, his community, and his love for his family will always be etched in the hearts of all who knew him.
We extend our love and support to Jane and Family.
Pam and Rolando

Message from Lorraine Losch.

My wife, Lorraine Losch,was a member of the church that Loren's father was the pastor in Mildmay, Ont. She went to school with Loren and knew him very well. After his father left Mildmay church he came to the church we attended at Wallace. I met Loren many times when he was young and again when I was working at a financial institution that Loren did business with. He was considered, when young, to be an outstanding student and individual
and my wife spoke very highly of him many times. He went on to many outstanding things and he will be remembered as a really nice person and outstanding leader in he line of work. Rest in peace Loren. Glen and Lorraine Zurbrigg. London, Ontario

Message from Bob and Carol johnston. Zurich ontario

To Jane and the Amacher family
Our deepest sympathy to you all at this sad time in your lives
We are so,proud to have had such an accomplished person who had ties to our small village of Zurich
He will be greatly missed by all

Message from Art and Sue McTighe

Dear Jane,
We just learned the very sad news of Loren’s passing. We have such fond memories of the times we shared during our years in Lewisburg. Loren was a colleague to Art and a good friend and neighbor to us both. Our thoughts go out to you and your family. Please know that many friends are holding you close at this difficult time.
Fondly,
Art and Sue McTighe

Message from Scott Grove

I was 8yrs old in 1976 & Dr Amacher removed a tumour on my brain. I am forever grateful. May he Rest In Peace

Message from Beth Bogue, London, Ontario, Canada

I was born with hydrocephalus, and Dr. Amacher first operated on me in 1970 at 3 weeks of age. There were two subsequent surgeries, and regular follow-up visits. I loved going to see him, as he was genuinely interested in my progress, and he always connected with me as a person, not just as a patient. For most of my life, I have been aware of how lucky I was to have been helped by Dr. Amacher. My original prognosis was uncertain, and I know that I have been blessed to live a full life relatively free of limitations. Dr. Amacher's encouragement meant more to me than he will ever know, and I will always be grateful to him for his clinical skill set combined with his ability and willingness to connect with me as a person. My thoughts and prayers are with all who were affected by his passing.

Message from Hugh & Cathy Barr

We were so saddened to read of Lorne’s passing in the London Free Press today. I spoke with him about 2 1/2 years ago to ask if he and you could attend the Reunion of trainees in Neurosurgery, some of whom Lorne and you would remember from your time in London. He mentioned he was too ill to travel and that his outlook was not favourable. It was devastating news. The Girvin’s are presently in Nantucket and I called to inform them. Lorne had a brilliant mind and I envied him for having, even at the time when we were all very busy, so many other interests. These traits were clearly described in his obituary. We extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family Jane. Hugh & Cathy Barr

Message from Beth Bogue, London, Ontario

I was born with hydrocephalus, and Dr. Amacher first operated on me in 1970 at 3 weeks of age. There were two subsequent surgeries, and regular follow-up visits. I loved going to see him, as he was genuinely interested in my progress, and he always connected with me as a person, not just as a patient. For most of my life, I have been aware of how lucky I was to have been helped by Dr. Amacher. My original prognosis was uncertain, and I know that I have been blessed to live a full life relatively free of limitations. Dr. Amacher's encouragement meant more to me than he will ever know, and I will always be grateful to him for his clinical skill set combined with his ability and willingness to connect with me as a person. My thoughts and prayers are with all who were affected by his passing.

Message from Bob and Lenene Harper

Jane and family. Our sincerest condolences on the loss of Loren. Please know that your old friends are thinking of you at this time.

Message from Lisa Adams

Dr. Amacher was my surgeon for a brain tumor 28 years ago. I was told he was one of the top 10 on the East coast and I had the best of the best as my surgeon. I am so incredibly thankful for his surgical talents, but also his incredible bedside manner. What a wonderful man. The family has my deepest sympathy. I will keep the entire family in my thoughts and prayers.

Message from Marg & Trev Sutton London, Ontario, Canada

Jane our condolences to you and your family. We will remember the fun times with you and Loren at our house and Patio party a way back in the 1960's.
Our prayers are with you all

Marg & Trev Sutton
London, Ont

Message from PHYLLIS Shermab

Jane, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family! God Bless.

Message from Kori Bigelow-Tarr

Dear Jane, sending heartfelt condolences from our family to yours. Sincerely, Kori Bigelow-Tarr

Message from Mary and Joe Millard, Calabash, NC

Dr. Amacher was a fine gentleman and physician. His talents as a surgeon, mentor, and educator will never be matched. I will miss his friendship and guidance. He assisted my career in neurosurgery at Geisinger Medical Center. He will be remembered as a kind and gentle man. His memory will carry on in the many people who's lives he touched both as a surgeon and friend. I for one will never forget him. Rest well my friend until we meet again. Most sincere condolences to Jane and the boys.
Joe Millard, PA-C