Glenn Dalrymple, M.D., a radiology professor at UNMC from 1990-96, died March 9 in Omaha after a long battle with colon cancer. He was 81.
A native of Little Rock, Ark., Dr. Dalrymple spent the early part of his career in Little Rock, spending 16 years on the faculty of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 11 years in a private practice radiology program, and two years with the John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Administration Hospital.
Dr. Dalrymple joined UNMC in 1990 as professor of radiology and internal medicine and played an active role in UNMC’s cancer research program. One of his areas of expertise was nuclear medicine, a medical specialty involving the application of radioactive substances in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.
He also served as interim chair of the UNMC Department of Radiation Oncology (1993-94) and as interim chair of the department (1994-96). He retired in 1996.
Dr. Dalrymple was a captain in the U.S. Air Force, serving as director of the Space Radiation Effects Group, Radiobiology Branch in the School of Aerospace Medicine at Brooks Air Force Base, Texas. His team estimated the radiation risks to astronauts in the early years of the space program.
“He was a man of spectacular intellect, genuine kindness and a deep appreciation for medicine and education,” said Charles Morris, M.D., UNMC professor of radiology. “He was a superb clinician, a prolific researcher in both clinical radiology and radiation biology, and a wonderful teacher.”
Dr. Dalrymple had a lifelong commitment to symphonic music. He and his wife of 61 years, Mary Jo, were founders of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra (ASO), and Dr. Dalrymple played the French horn and trombone with the ASO for 35 years.
Upon moving to Omaha, the Dalrymples again founded a community symphony. Dr. Dalrymple played with Orchestra Omaha for 15 years, including several years with the additional challenge of low vision.
“I considered Dr. Dalrymple to be my greatest mentor and teacher, and most of all, a great friend,” said Nina Baranowska-Kortylewicz, Ph.D., UNMC professor of radiation oncology. “Glenn was a true Renaissance man. He was a great nuclear medicine physician, a great scientist always in avant-garde. He was also a great musician and an accomplished French horn player. He loved to play Mahler. He was an innovative photographer, and he left a wonderful legacy for UNMC Radiation Safety by bestowing several of his photographs to the department.”