The pharmacy profession lost two good ones last week.

On Friday, I went to Steve Judy’s funeral in Petersburg, WV. Steve was a pharmacy owner, enthusiastic volunteer in the profession and his community, innovator, father, longtime friend and fellow West Virginia University grad. It was gratifying to see hundreds of people lining up to visit with Steve’s family. He gave so much to our profession through volunteering with the West Virginia Pharmacists Association and state board of pharmacy, as well as with the National Community Pharmacists Association. He and I got to work together twice a year at school of pharmacy visiting committee meetings. He was always leading the way in the adoption and testing of new technologies. I know his son and daughter will carry on his traditions at his stores. Like them, I’ll miss him.

Carl Malanga, one of my pharmacy school professors, also passed away this past week after a lengthy illness. Carl and I had some great conversations this past year. Despite his full awareness of the nature of his disease, he spent most of our call time encouraging me to keep working hard for our profession, which he loved so much.

Steve and Carl, I know you’re up there smiling at us. Thanks for everything you did for us here. Keep up the good work!