On August 15, Richard DeWall, MD, passed away. He had a tremendous impact on our community and throughout the medical profession.
Dr. DeWall was a brilliant cardiovascular surgeon whose reputation and skill revolutionized the way heart care was delivered in Dayton and throughout the world. Virginia Kettering invited Dr. DeWall to join Kettering Medical Center in 1968 and develop the region’s first open heart program. Along with Benjamin Schuster, MD, Dr. DeWall helped develop the cardiology program at Kettering Medical Center.
His invention and use of the DeWall Bubble Oxygenator became a standard of care internationally. A replica of his first oxygenator remains on display at the National Museum of American History at the Smithsonian Institution.
Dr. DeWall was passionate about bringing hope and healing to his patients. The legacy he leaves is thriving, and touches not only people throughout Kettering Health Network, but also the numerous patients who have received life-saving heart care in our community over the past 50-plus years.