Jerome Sheldon “Jerry” Spitzer, M.D., 91, of Hutchinson, died August 29, 2024, at Hospice House. He was born March 13, 1933, in Chicago, IL, to George and Malvina (Weiss) Spitzer.
Jerry graduated from Benson High School in Omaha, NE, and the University of Nebraska College of Medicine in 1959. He served as a captain in the United States Army from 1960-1962 at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. In 1962, Jerry and his family moved to Hutchinson to start his medical career, which lasted 36 years. He joined Dr. Paul Stoez and other physicians at 2415 N. Main. In January, 1963, Jerry and Dr. Stoez joined the Medical Center at 415 W. 2nd Ave. After the new Medical Center was built at 11th & Main, he was named to the Medical Center’s board of directors in 1972 and was president of the Medical Center for 9 years. Jerry retired from the Medical Center in 1998. Dr. Spitzer truly loved his job and his patients.
Dr. Spitzer served on the boards of numerous civic organizations throughout his career. He was instrumental in the founding of Prairie Star, which is a non-profit health care center providing medical, dental, and vision care for families in need.
On June 8, 1974, Jerry married Ruth Ann Ford, in Hutchinson.
Jerry loved flying so much that he became a pilot. His love of flying led him and his wife, Ruth Ann, to build their home of 47 years near the airport so they could watch the planes come and go. Jerry was an avid golfer and was a member of the LADS at Prairie Dunes County Club. But during the winter you would find him and Ruth Ann on the slopes. They loved to travel with family and friends.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Ruth Ann Spitzer. Also surviving are: his children and their spouses, Bob and Sharon Spitzer of Plano, TX, David Spitzer of North Haven, CT, Cathy and Joe Gluck of Evanston, IL; stepchildren and their spouses, John Martinez of Prairie Village, KS, Annette and Mark Meek of Weatherford, TX, Sandra and Bill Bell of Hutchinson, Gary Martinez of Hutchinson; 14 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; brother, John and Cheri Spitzer of Canton, OH; and many extended family members.
He was preceded in death by: his father, George Spitzer; stepmother, Marie Spitzer; mother, Malvina Spitzer; siblings, Judith Spitzer, Jim Spitzer; son-in-law, Mace John; and daughters-in-law, Pam Martinez and Susanne Spitzer.
Cremation has taken place and a private family burial will be held at a later date.
Friends may sign his memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday, with the family present to receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Elliott Mortuary.
Memorial donations may be made to Hutchinson Community College Endowment Association, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.