(Undated) — The man responsible for making the first successful liver transplant has passed away. Dr. Thomas Starzl, a Le Mars native, pioneered liver transplant surgery in the 1960’s. He was also a leading researcher into anti-rejection drugs. Starzl was 90 years of age. The University of Pittsburgh, speaking on behalf of Starzl’s family confirmed he had passed on Saturday. Although unable to attend the ceremony, Dr. Starzl was given the honor of being named as the Le Mars Community Distinguished Alum two years ago during the annual Le Mars Community School Foundation awards banquet. In a news article, about Dr. Thomas
Starzl, it had mentioned that he had several memories about Le Mars, and growing up in Le Mars. Starzl was once quoted that he carries little pieces of Le Mars with him, and he remembers every little detail. Le Mars Community High School student, Sara Meis, the daughter of Drs. Steven and Jolene Meis of Le Mars did a history report on Dr. Thomas Starzl two years ago and recalls her research.
Sara Meis of Le Mars stands next to her National History Report display board focusing on Le Mars native, Dr. Thomas Starzl. Standing with Meis is a childhood friend of Dr. Starzl, Dr. Wendell Downing of Des Moines. The photo is from the Le Mars Community School Foundation banquet two years ago.
