So lucky to have him as a founding member of Seattle Dermatologic Journal Club over 25 years ago - an amazing scientist always filling our journal club with words of wisdom and deep thoughts. He only missed j club so he could sail with Star or visit the cabin with his family. His insights will forever ring in my mind as well as his bow ties. We were so lucky to have his editorial comments over these 25 years. He attended our last meeting in January 2023 as he was so dedicated.
Dr. Fleckman was a doctor I will always remember. He was a compassionate person with an extremely sharp sense of humor. A dear friend and I were both patients of Dr. Fleckman. At the end of our appointments we would always thank him and he often asked why patients always said thank you at the end of an appointment when he had inflicted so much pain on them. So at the end of one of my friends appointments instead of saying thank you to Dr. Fleckman he said.... I hope one day a camel sits on your head. My friend could hear Dr. Fleckman laughing all the way down the hall. Forever after that day we referred to our dear doctor as Dr. Camel. Rest in peace, Dr. Camel. We will always miss you.
Phil was an institution unto himself, and his sad passing is a tremendous loss for the University of Washington. I first met Phil 40 years ago when he was teaching the dermatology course in the School of Medicine. In those days, the department would put on a teaching rounds for students on a Saturday, in which they would invite numerous patients and their families from around Puget Sound, who graciously consented to be poked and prodded. In addition to hearing Phil pontificate from the lectern, I was also privileged to see him in action at the bedside, combining his empathetic approach, taking the history in his subtle Texas drawl, in ways that allowed patients to tell their stories and have their voices be heard while at the same time applying his rigorous scientific, analytic method to the differential diagnosis and treatment plan. Later, I had the distinct pleasure of performing an elective medical school clerkship in dermatology and interacting with him during my Medicine residency. Phil's approach to the art and science of medicine was unlike nothing I've encountered before or since. Everything for him was an open question, whether it be how the microscope that we were using to examine a skin scraping worked, or why the clinic was laid out in the way it was, yet somehow he would take all these varied observations and wrap them up, Sherlock Holmes style, into a cohesive assessment that nailed down a challenging diagnosis and ultimately provided the patient with the answers that they were seeking. He demanded rigor, yet he treated everyone in a respectful manner that drew out their very best. I feel that I am a better doctor and especially a better person for having had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be missed.
So sad to hear about Dr. Fleckmans passing. He was such a great provider. After seeing several doctors over the course of a year, it was Dr. Fleckman who was able to identify and treat my very rare autoimmune disorder. I will be forever greatful for him. I am so sorry to his family. God Bless.
I was saddened with the passing of the best doctor I met here in Washington. He was very thorough in checking what are the cause of my nail problem and at the end my nails now are getting better with the help of his friend doctor here at lakewood, wa by injection. I will never forget you Dr. Philip Fleckman. God bless your soul. My deepest condolence to the family.
Phil was wonderful to work with at The Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types. He was so knowledgeable, kind and so easy to work with. Phil was a gentle soul and I will miss him. God bless Star and the whole family.
I am deeply saddened to learn of Phil's sickness and passing. Phil was such a passionate and caring mentor and friend. He taught me to listened to and learn from each patient, and was a role model for me and many others. His strong commitment and advocacy on behalf of the members of FIRST has been a guide and inspiration, and he will be dearly missed. My heart goes out to Star, their daughters and family.
Gabriele