In Memoriam: Julian D. Pamm, MBChB, FFA(SA), 1953–2024

Julian David Pamm MBChB, FFA(SA), passed away in Cape Town, South Africa on April 8, 2024. He was 71 years old.

Dr. Pamm was an Assistant Professor in the Division of Cardiothoracic Anesthesia from 1993 to 2009. Prior to working at Columbia, he held senior positions at Groote Schuur Hospital (GSH) and the University of Cape Town. In late 2009, to assist his wife's elderly parents, he returned to Cape Town, where he continued to practice and teach until 2023.

After his passing, his wife Yvonne de Kock and brother Anthony Pamm received glowing tributes to his nature, character, and professional stature from relatives, friends, and colleagues.

Julian had so many talents and interests––he was obviously a brilliant doctor, but unlike many, combined that with many other interests, particularly a love of  the arts, which I know he enjoyed in many forms, in New York.

He had a wonderful sense of humour, making him such great company, but was also so deeply thoughtful, warm, gentle, and kind. He was truly a unique person.

I feel very privileged to have known Jules, and so sad knowing I won’t see him again––he was taken far too young, and suddenly, which is so cruel for all who loved him. 

He was such an adventurous and open guy and gave so much to the world.

I was thinking back the other day about my friendship with Jules. We met in 1981 when he became an Anesthetic Registrar at GSH. Our friendship was instantaneous and remained something I will cherish for the rest of my life. His warmth, his humor, and his love of life and people was something special.

Dr. Pamm's widow Yvonne and his brother Anthony can be contacted at anpamm@gmail.com. The tombstone consecration for Dr. Pamm was May 19, 2024 in Cape Town.