Nebraska Medicine and UNMC leaders are making plans to honor the memory of Joseph Stothert, MD, PhD. The longtime trauma surgeon died unexpectedly Friday at his home in Omaha.
The entire UNMC and Nebraska Medicine community sends heartfelt condolences to Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert and their entire family. In the days since his passing, Dr. Stothert’s patients, colleagues and former students have shared memories of a man they say has left an incredible legacy for the medical center and all of Omaha.
UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, described Dr. Stothert as a consummate educator, mentor and role model.
“He was the kind of guy that students would call up long after they graduated. He was a wonderful, caring human being. It’s a tremendous loss to our institution, our community, to his family and a great personal loss to me as well,” Dr. Gold said.
In addition to his work as a surgeon and educator, Dr. Stothert also served for years as medical director for the Omaha Fire Department — a leadership role that helped shape the region’s trauma system.
“Dr. Stothert shaped trauma care in Nebraska. We will miss his personal impact on countless patients, trainees and fellow surgeons,” said Jim Linder, MD, Nebraska Medicine CEO.
“Joe Stothert was a man of few words but when he spoke, most of us knew we should listen and pay attention. He truly loved his patients and they loved him back equally,” said David W. Mercer, MD, chair of the UNMC Department of Surgery. “He was indefatigable and I think it is safe to say that if it were not for Joe we would not have the statewide, regional trauma program we have today. He was a remarkable man who made our community a safer one. He will be missed by his family in the UNMC Department of Surgery, his colleagues throughout the organization, and by his beloved patients. Our hearts and prayers go out to Jean, the children and the grandchildren for their loss of a husband, a father, and a grandfather.”
Brad Britigan, MD, dean of the UNMC College of Medicine, said, “Dr. Stothert had an enormous impact on UNMC, Nebraska Medicine, and the region. His memory will live on through: the trauma program at Nebraska Medicine whose creation he led; his trainees and colleagues who carry on his legacy of clinical excellence; and the lives of the many who would not be with us if he had not been there. He will be missed.”
Plans for a memorial are pending. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for memorials to the First Responders Foundation or the Omaha Police Foundation.
There are a number of resources available for Nebraska Medicine and UNMC employees, physicians, house officers and students.
“I know it can be helpful to process loss with other people,” Dr. Mercer said. “He touched all of us in different ways through his clinical work, his mentoring and his dedication to our department. Please do not hesitate to reach out for help during this difficult time.”
Resources available to all:
Peer counseling for physicians:
Resources for House Officers:
Resources for Students:
- UNMC Student Counseling in Bennet Hall: Grief therapy. Crisis counseling. No payment necessary. Confidential. Sixth floor of Bennett Hall. 402-559-7276
24/7 Helplines:
- Crisis Assistance via Phone: 24/7 free, confidential support for anyone in distress. 800-273-TALK National Crisis Line
- Crisis Assistance via Text. 741741- Text “hello” for immediate crisis assistance
Thoughts and Prayers go out to Mayor Stothert and her Family.
My, Heart and paryers go out to the family. MAY the Good lord watch over you and keep you in his most loving care. May the good lord give, you peace and comfort you with his most loving care. God's blessing be with you.