by H. Thomas Unger, M.D.
[November 1995; Vol. 22 No. 5]
When Lino Covi telephoned and asked if I would write the Memoriam for Tony, it brought to mind a flood of associations and connections that I have had to him over the past thirty-five years. First, as a supervisor and teacher, then as a colleague in private practice, and, for about twenty years before he and Pat moved to Mt. Vernon Square, as a good neighbor and friend. Over the years and times shared, some of his characteristics that stood out were his kindness and gentleness with friends and I knew also with patients. Tony had a strong sense of personal dignity and self-respect which he in turn saw in and granted to others. He had a dry sense of humor and enjoyed a good chuckle. Over the years, with his wife Pat and other neighbors, we enjoyed some good Circle Road parties which were not always so reserved.
Professionally, Tony was a wise clinician who held to the highest ethical standards and whose counsel I very much appreciated. Patients who had been treated by him spoke of his gentle caring. At the Social Security Administration, where we both consulted, he was the Dean of the cadre of psychiatrists.
At the Newman Center, where his memorial service was held, there were half again as many people as the chapel could accommodate. The service was a beautiful and moving one and I learned yet more from his family and friends who were like his family what a dedicated father, husband, friend and mentor that he had consistently been throughout his life. I will miss him as I know others will.