Thomas Spurgeon

TO OUR COLLEAGUE AND FRIEND

Dr. Thomas L. Spurgeon, exceptionally well-trained anatomist, superb teacher, and educational innovator, devoted his professional life to the advancement of anatomic education through scientific investigation and the dissemination of anatomic knowledge.

Following service to his country in the United States Air Force, Thomas L. Spurgeon entered college. Upon completion of his doctorate in anatomy in the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Califomia-Davis, Dr. Spurgeon accepted a faculty position in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Washington State University. His record as an excellent anatomist at that institution led to a position in the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at Colorado State University.

His broad knowledge of both human and veterinary anatomy was utilized fully at Colorado State. Students requiring courses in basic human anatomy as well as those majoring in veterinary medicine and various animal sciences profited from the instruction provided by this well-rounded anatomist who possessed outstanding pedagogic skill. His expertise was equally appreciated by the graduate students he mentored, particularly those in the biomedical illustration program.

Dr. Spurgeon, a pioneer in the computer-assisted instruction of anatomy, was continually seeking new methods of presentation. He and his colleague and close friend, Thomas O. McCracken, conceived the unique anatomic presentation used in this atlas.

Tragically, Dr. Spurgeon's untimely death in an automobile accident in 1997 brought a halt to his brilliant career. Dr. Spurgeon's devoted sons, Aaron and Kyle, are indeed proud of their father's accomplishments. Countless students mourn the passing of a man who, as teacher and friend, contributed so much to their lives.