Father Figure and Friend
When he wanted to get back to his roots and really enjoy himself, Max invited me to his tiny square house at Squantum-by-the-Sea. There he would open his refrigerator, which was invariably empty except for a bottle of pickled herring, which he removed. We had the pickled herring on toothpicks with schnapps to loosen up the conversation, which was often otherwise fraught with painful pauses. From there, we went to the New York Delicatessen in Dorchester where Max looked really excited as he picked up his hot pastrami and tea in a glass at the counter.
Gerald B. Phillips, M.D.
Professor of Medicine
Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons
15 January 2002
Max Finland was undoubtedly the shortest giant of medicine in the twentieth century. His capacity for work is legendary. But there was much more to Max . . .he was devoted to his staff, and this was rewarded by unwavering loyalty. He was both a taskmaster and a mentor for his fellows, and, in a very real sense, a deeply caring father to them as well.
Theodore C. Eickhoff, M.D.
Professor of Medicine Medicine
University of Colorado Health Sciences Center
4 December 2001
The only one I knew who took others out on his birthday, Uncle Max treated us to dinners at Yee Hong Guey, Madame Voisin’s and the Harvard Club. The latter always preceded a visit to the Boston Symphony . . . In short, while I appreciate the great boost Max gave to my education and career, the image of Max as a kind-hearted mensch is what stands out.
Peter Dans, M.D.
29 September 2001
I had Max’s tutoring and support quietly, but completely, during my entire Thorndike stay. I, like the rest of us, cherish this professional father figure, who was so important in directing our entire lives.
A. Martin Lerner, M.D., M.A.C.P.
Clinical Professor of Medicine
Wayne State University School of Medicine
September 2001
Max was a bachelor and his fellows were his sons and daughters. Dinners were frequent, spouses were welcome into the family; Christmas was important for Max’s special brew of Brandy Alexander and presents for the children. Each felt a kinship – a common bond based on this shared experience.
Jerome O. Klein
Professor of Pediatrics
Boston University School of Medicine
31 August 2001