Thomas Kent Reichert, MD
August 24, 1949 – December 26, 2006 Dr. Reichert was a dedicated and loving son, husband, father, and grandfather-to-be. As a family physician for 31 years, he cared for his patients with great compassion, humility, and selflessness. He served the Pueblo community for over 28 years and was a highly respected member of the medical and general community. This scholarship was established in Dr. Reichert’s name, from donations provided by his family, friends, colleagues, and patients, in order to permanently memorialize him in a manner that continued his lifelong practice of helping others.
Dr. Reichert was born and raised in northeastern Colorado. He graduated magna cum laude from Colorado College on a Boettcher scholarship and then obtained his medical degree at the University of Colorado School of Medicine in 1975. After completing his family medicine residency in San Bernardino, California, he moved to Pueblo and opened his solo practice in November of 1978. Dr. Reichert practiced full-spectrum family medicine including obstetrics, caring for people of all ages.
Dr. Reichert cherished all of his patients, but he seemed to hold a special place in his heart for the babies he delivered and the children he saw in his office. His wonderful way of interacting with kids quickly made their fears of visiting the doctor change to smiles and giggles. He tried to make his patients feel important by making sure all of their concerns were addressed even if it sometimes took him extra time in his schedule. He became a respected and beloved part of many patients’ families as he cared for multiple generations of their loved ones.
Dr. Reichert was a staff member at St. Mary-Corwin and Parkview Medical Centers, the latter at which he served on the Board and then as Chief of Staff from 2001 to 2005. He was board certified in Family Medicine and Geriatrics and was an active member of the American Academy of Family Practice, the Colorado Academy of Family Practice, and the American Medical Directors Association. In addition to his private practice, he served the Pueblo community as Medical Director for Parkview Homecare, Life Care Center, University Park Care Center, and the Plasma Center. Dr. Reichert also actively attended First United Methodist Church, competed on several Pueblo men’s hockey teams, regularly played tennis with friends, and supported all of the local and state professional sports teams.
Dr. Reichert’s endless dedication to his patients was only surpassed by his infinite love for his family. He met his wife, Chris, while in medical school and they shared over 31 wonderful years together. They were each other’s greatest source of happiness, comfort, and love and this was apparent to all. They were blessed with two sons, Bryan and Brent, who both inherited many of his life’s passions. Dr. Reichert helped coach many of his sons’ soccer, basketball, and tennis teams. He was fortunate to be able to spend more time with his mother, Ruby, when she moved to Pueblo to be closer to family. He was always ready to drop everything to help his family with tasks or even just to play. When Brent married his wife, Kelly, Dr. Reichert welcomed her to the family with open arms. He was extremely excited about his first grandson-on-the-way, Sam, and surely would have been one of the greatest grandfathers in the world.
For all that he accomplished, it was who he was and not what he did that will be his legacy. As Dr. Reichert was often a kid-at-heart, his love and enthusiasm were contagious. We cannot begin to count those who have been touched by his kind and gentle spirit. He cared for so many and is now missed by all. |