Franz Cornelius von Lichtenberg, MD, HMS professor of pathology, emeritus, at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, died on Sunday, Sept. 16, 2012 in Brookline, Mass. He was 92.
Dr. von Lichtenberg received his bachelor’s degree from Gymnasium Am Lietzensee, Berlin, Germany, in 1937, and a medical degree from the National University of Mexico in 1945. He also received honorary degrees from the University of Nicaragua in 1959, and from Harvard University in 1968. He completed his training in pathology in Mexico, Puerto Rico and Brazil before joining the HMS community as an instructor in pathology at the then Peter Bent Brigham Hospital in 1958, rising to full professor in 1973.
Dr. von Lichtenberg’s research focused mainly on the pathobiology of schistosomiasis, filariasis and leishmaniasis in humans. He provided dedicated service to his department and the hospital in autopsy and surgical pathology, working with Dr. Gustave Dammin for more than 15 years, and Dr. Ramzi Cotran for more than 27 years. He was a steadfast and committed teacher of pathology and infectious disease pathology to generations of students, residents and clinical colleagues.
Dr. von Lichtenberg, who was predeceased by his wife, Sandra von Lichtenberg, is survived by his children, Adriane von Lichtenberg; Stephen von Lichtenberg; Alexander von Lichtenberg and his wife, Lisa; Paula Reeves O’Brien and her husband, David; Charles von Lichtenberg and Karen Fernandez.
A memorial service was held in October. Contributions in memory of Dr. von Lichtenberg may be made to the Franz von Lichtenberg Fellowship in Infectious Disease Pathology and Molecular Microbiology, c/o Development Office, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 116 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02116.
