Fargotstein, Ralph MD age 93, a 47 year resident of Scottsdale has joined his wife Dottie, who preceded him in death. Ralph died at home on July 22, 2009 amongst family he loved and who loved him. During the months and weeks prior to his death, his children and grandchildren spent many weekends with him sharing memories, laughter, and some tears. Ralph was born April 17, 1916, in Pittsburg, PA. to Anna and Joseph Fargotstein. Following his studies at the University of Pittsburg, that included a stint in the marching band, he went on to Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri from which he graduated in 1944. After a few years in general practice he returned to St. Louis where he completed a residency in pathology. Ralph had three loved in his life#medicine, Dottie, and his family. He married Dottie in 1943 and they began their family of five children: Barbara, John and his life partner Phyllis, Phillip (Karen), Joseph (Lisa), and Katherine. Ralph served in the USN medical corps during both WWII and the Korean conflict. Upon discharge from military service he began his career as a pathologist as Director of Laboratories in hospitals from California to Michigan and Colorado to Arizona. In his role as director in these different settings he was an innovator through his introduction of computers to laboratory medicine and was a model for excellence in practice. This excellence was recognized by the Commission on Inspection and Accreditation of the College of American Pathologists when the laboratory at St. Luke's Hospital in Phoenix, under his direction, was described as one of the finest ever seen by the members of the commission. Ralph retired as Director of Laboratories at St. Luke's in 1988 but didn't go quietly into that retirement. He remained active in computer groups, photography, and organ lessons. His love of learning even led him to take flight school. He believed in the importance of learning and striving for excellence in all that he did#personally and professionally-- and he passed this value on to his children and much loved grandchildren: Kristine, Matthew, Kirsten, and Kristofer. His was a life well lived and he will be greatly missed. Family and friends are invited to a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, July 26th at Messinger Mortuary, 7601 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale. The family is most grateful to Juan Bajamundi of Visiting Angels for the loving care he provided and to Hospice of the Valley for their end of life care and support. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to either Hospice of the Valley or your charity of choice. Published in The Arizona Republic from 7/25 to 7/26/2009