Former Duke Immunologist Richard Metzgar Dies
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Durham, NC -- Long-time Duke faculty member Dr. Richard Stanley (Dick) Metzgar, 79, died on April 15, 2009, from complications of a form of cancer known as multiple myeloma.
Dr. Metzgar served on the faculty of Duke University from 1962 to 1996. During his 34 year research and teaching career as a Professor of Immunology, his work illuminated many of the basic principles of the human immune system, in particular the mechanisms and markers of pancreatic cancer. He was a pioneer in the development of monoclonal antibodies and their design for potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Dr. Metzgar's contributions to the field of immunology enriched the scientific endeavors of many colleagues around the world. In addition, he taught and trained countless technicians, graduate and medical students and postdoctoral research fellows, passing on his love of science and the pursuit of excellence in research.
In his private life, Dick Metzgar was an avid golfer, fisherman, skiier, reader and solver of crossword puzzles. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle and grandfather. He loved to travel, and collected art, artifacts and music from his many trips in the U.S. and abroad. Dr. Metzgar is survived by his wife, Patricia Metzgar; his daughter, Marcia Metzgar Hobbs; his son, Mark Metzgar; his sister, Carol Metzgar Baylis and their families including three grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and their children. He was loved and cherished by many and will be missed by all who knew him.
There will be no funeral service; a memorial celebration of Dick's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Red Cross or Heartland Home Health Care and Hospice, 3200 Atlantic Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27604. Arrangements by the Cremation Society of the Carolinas. Online condolences at www.cremnc.com.
