Dr. Peter Lynch Obituary (1936 - 2024)

It is with heavy hearts and a profound sense of loss that we announce the passing of Dr. Peter John Lynch, a highly respected dermatologist whose life's work touched countless individuals. Peter departed this world on February 19, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends. Born on October 22, 1936, in Minneapolis, MN to Francis Watson and Viola Adeline Lynch. Peter spent his childhood summers and holidays in Grand Marais, MN with his parents and brother Tom and sister Mary. Peter and Tom spent their time rebuilding and racing cars. Peter’s fondness for cars carried on through his life so much so that he maintained a list of every single car he ever owned. Peter earned his medical degree from the University of Minnesota and completed his residency in dermatology at the University of Michigan. He met his wife, Barbara Ann Lanzi during his last year of residency. Peter and Barbara married on January 18, 1964. That summer Peter was drafted, and the young couple moved to Fort Benning, GA. In 1968, after completing his time in the Army, Peter and Barbara moved to St. Paul, MN where Peter worked in his father’s dermatology practice. Peter and Barbara then moved to Ann Arbor, MI where Peter joined the University of Michigan Dermatology department. In 1973 Peter was recruited to the University of Arizona to develop the dermatology department. Peter adapted easily to his new western lifestyle. He wore cowboy boots every day to work and attempted to learn Spanish no less than 50 times. The move to the University of Arizona was the start of his academic career in which he thrived, launching him to Chair the Department of Dermatology at both the University of Minnesota and the University of California, Davis. He found his love in teaching the medical students and mentoring the residents. As a professor, Peter’s impact extended far beyond the lecture halls and research laboratories. His genuine concern for the success and well-being of his students earned him the admiration and respect of the academic community. Colleagues and students alike were inspired by his intellect, humility, and unwavering commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and academic and medical excellence. Peter’s research contributions were vast and influential, with his work garnering recognition both nationally and internationally. His scholarly pursuits, marked by a passion for pushing the boundaries of knowledge, contributed significantly to the field of dermatology. His work included numerous published articles and textbooks. In 2013 Peter was awarded the American Academy of Dermatology Pearson Memorial Education Award and was given honorary membership to the American Academy of Dermatology. Fewer than 50 of the 13,000 American dermatologists have been awarded this honor. Peter was a man whose indomitable spirit and visionary leadership left an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to know him. Peter’s legacy is woven from the threads of his extraordinary ability to bring people together transcending boundaries of nationality, specialty, and opinion to create a feeling of collaboration. He demonstrated a profound respect for individuals, regardless of their country of origin, medical specialty, or gender, embodying the belief that unity and respect are the cornerstones of cooperation. Known for his gentle demeanor and empathetic approach, Peter created a welcoming and reassuring environment in his clinic. Patients admired his ability to explain complex dermatological issues in a way that was easily understandable, fostering a sense of trust and confidence in his care. Peter was a kind and caring husband, father, grandfather, and friend to all those whom he met. His warmth was often shared over laughs, a fine meal prepared by Barbara, and a special bottle of wine. On many occasions, Jack Daniels and rock ‘n’ roll music were involved. Peter relished sharing his love for music with anyone who was willing to listen (no talking was allowed while the music was playing). His home was always open and welcoming. Peter loved Grand Marais and the peace and beauty offered by the North Shore of Lake Superior. That sense of place carried through to each of his homes. Peter loved hikes in the rugged Sonoran Desert, quiet nights by the fire at the cozy cabin on Moose Lake in Minnesota, and working in the woods on their property in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Peter and Barbara’s retirement home on the shores of Casco Bay in Harpswell, Maine came with that same sense of calmness and natural beauty. Survived by wife Barbara Ann Lynch, daughter Deborah Riddell, son-in-law Ian Riddell, son Timothy Lynch and daughter-in-law Caroline Lynch, grandchildren, Elise and Lawson Riddell and Katherine, Matthew, Sophia, Olivia and Elizabeth Lynch, and his sister Mary Hanranhan. Peter is preceded in death by his brother Tom Lynch. Dr. Peter John Lynch leaves behind a void that cannot be easily filled, not only in the field of dermatology but in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will endure through the lives he touched, the knowledge he shared, and the countless individuals who continue to benefit from his expertise. May he rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps. Listen to music loudly; drink fine wine and Jack Daniels; partake in amazing meals; celebrate your family and friends; and find peace. We love you, Peter. The family will hold a private burial and this summer, we will join together to celebrate Peter. In lieu of flowers, the Family wishes that contributions be made to the Bass Lynch Endowment Fund. The check can be made payable to the UC Davis Foundation. The allocation to write in the check memo line is 114858. Checks should be mailed to: PO Box 160186 Sacramento, CA 95816.