Deceased February 11, 2023
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In Memory
Jack Chamberlain, who led a full and varied life as a pediatrician, an Army medical doctor and a dedicated leader in the Washington, D.C., community, died Feb. 11.
Jack prepared for Amherst at Washington’s St. Albans School, which he later served as a member of the board of directors and president of the alumni association. At Amherst, Jack was an honors major in biology and a member of the Phi Alpha Psi fraternity.
In 1957, Jack earned a degree from the University of Virginia School of Medicine, beginning a long commitment that included membership on the school’s advisory board, the presidency of its alumni association, and service in the school’s foundation and on its admissions committee.
In his career, Jack eventually became a sole practitioner in pediatrics in Bethesda, Md., where he was physician to thousands of young children of the metropolitan area. He was closely tied to the Children’s Hospital National Medical Center, ultimately serving as chairman of the medical staff. He taught at the George Washington University School of Medicine and served as vice chairman of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
In 1989, Jack closed his private practice and accepted a colonel’s commission in the Army Medical Corps, serving in Germany during Operation Desert Storm.
Jack’s busy retirement included two decades as a docent and staff aide at Washington National Cathedral and participation in more than 150 courses in American University’s lifelong learning program, along with membership on its board of directors.
Always seeking new experiences, Jack enjoyed piloting small aircraft, playing tennis and especially reading biographies.
Jack’s first marriage ended in divorce. He is survived by his second wife, Marietje (joined in a 46-year marriage), a brother, three children, two stepsons, a host of grandchildren and a great-grandchild.
George Gates ’53