June 6, 2003

In memoriam: William S. Beck, MD

William S. Beck, MD, a former chief of MGH Hematology, died May 27 at the age of 79.An MGH hematology specialist for 46 years, Beck was described by his colleagueBruce Chabner, MD, clinical director of the MGH Cancer Center as a "grandfatherly figure" to many physicians he trained over the years.

Beck's research on the biochemistry of blood cell formation led to more than 200 publications, including scientific articles, essays, short stories and several books.

Beck never formally retired and gave his last lecture only four weeks ago.