Dr. Fred Phillip Handler died of coronavirus complications on April 20, 2020 at the age of 95. He had lived a long and love filled life. The son of immigrants, his parents placed a high value on education and his mother made sure that her children attended college and graduate school.

He completed his medical degree from Washington University and completed his residency in pathology at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and joined the staff there. In 1951 he was sent to Asia to serve in the military and became an expert in tropical and parasitic infections, creating an extensive reference slide collection.

After he finished his military service, Fred and his wife Estelle moved to Jefferson City where they raised their family and Fred practiced pathology at St. Mary’s Hospital and Memorial Community Hospital. Fred was a mentor and teacher to many of the aspiring doctors and nurses who he crossed paths with.

In 1984 Fred and Estelle moved back to St. Louis and enjoyed their retirement. A voracious reader and observer of nature, Fred never stopped learning. He also loved fishing, the St. Louis Symphony, classical music, and live theatre.

His wife of 72 years preceded him in death on December 10, 2019.

Dr. Handler is loved and missed by his adult children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and all the friends and acquaintances whose lives he touched over the years.

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