Memorial: Galdino Valvassori, MD, FACR

Galdino Valvassori, MD, FACR, distinguished Professor Emeritus of the department of radiology at the University of Illinois in Chicago, passed quietly in his sleep on February 13, 2018, in Florida. He was 91 years old.
Dr. Valvassori, who was considered by most radiologists to be the father of head and neck radiology, was one of the founders and first President of American Society of Head and Neck Radiology. Dr. Valvassori authored the first definitive reference textbook in head and neck imaging. He went on to become his generation’s leader in head and neck radiology in general and otoradiology in particular.
Dr. Valvassori was born in Milan, Italy, on July 16, 1926. He was a man like no other. His tenacity and love of life was shared with everyone he touched in his life and career and he had a good run of 91 incredible years. He came to the United States in 1955 to complete his training at Memorial Hospital Cornell Medical School in New York City. Dino married his first love Alessandrina and had 4 lovely children, who survive him and have families of their own.
Dr. Valvassori had an amazing career as he pioneered the field of radiology in otolaryngology and ophthalmology. He pursued his teaching at the University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary as well as in private practice with determination and boundless energy. We studied under Dr. Valvassori when we were residents in the 1970s and he impressed us not only by his knowledge but also by his continuous pursuit of excellence in his chosen field. He was known for his attention to detail that resulted in diagnoses that few could make. He became the mentor of one of us (M.M.), who succeeded him as the director of the department at University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary. Dr. Valvassori treated all staff with respect and we admired and loved this larger-than-life man, because of his charisma, energy, and brilliance.
Dr. Valvassori loved the outdoors. He especially liked hiking in the mountains and engaged in downhill skiing well into his 80s.
Dr. Valvassori was above all a family man who adored his grandchildren who were the love of his life. He is survived by his wife, Eleanor, his four children: Danielle, Alex, Laura, and Pia and his 8 grandchildren.

Mahmood Mafee, MD, FACR
Professor of Radiology
University of California, San Diego
San Diego, California

Dimitrios Spigos, MD,
Professor Emeritus
University of Illinois, Chicago
Chicago, Illinois