In Memoriam: Sem Phan, MD, PhD
By Lynn McCain | November 25
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Sem Phan, professor of pathology and renowned pulmonary pathology researcher, following a protracted illness.
Dr. Phan completed his PhD at Indiana University, and a fellowship focused on mitochondrial biogenesis, followed by an MD from the Indiana University School of Medicine. His residency training and an NIH Lung Immunopathology Fellowship were completed at the University of Connecticut Health Center, where he met Dr. Peter Ward. When Dr. Ward moved to the University of Michigan as Chair of Pathology in 1980, Dr. Phan was his first recruit, joining the department as a tenure track assistant professor. He was promoted through the ranks to professor in 1992.
Dr. Phan provided anatomic pathology service throughout his tenure, but his passions were research and education. His love for teaching can be seen in the many students he mentored over the years, many of whom are conducting research in their own labs today. His research into chronic lung disease, especially pulmonary fibrosis, led to him traveling the world lecturing on his work and resulted in more than 150 peer-reviewed publications, 23 book chapters, and hundreds of other papers.
In addition, Dr. Phan was a member of several professional societies and served on numerous research study sections for the NIH and other organizations. The combination of his clinical work, research, teaching, and service was recognized by many awards throughout his career, including being named a Fellow of the College of American Pathologists and a Senior Fellow of the American Asthma Foundation.
Although Sem was a gifted researcher, he was also a kind and generous person. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Katherine, and their two children, Nicholas and Louis. He provided faithful and loving care for his wife during her illness. His colleagues knew him as a gifted investigator but, more importantly, one who was always willing to share his expertise and (graciously) provide help whenever called upon. He was a gourmet cook and a wine aficionado and eagerly shared these talents with his friends. He loved music, especially his son Nick’s opera career, and delighted in the joys of grandparenthood. His love of travel took him to many countries around the world. Dr. Phan was a gifted pathologist, an accomplished scientist, a consummate teacher, and a strong role model for all he encountered. He is leaving a hole in our hearts and department and will be deeply missed.
Dr. Phan is survived by his sons, Nicholas Phan (Noah Sochet) of San Francisco, CA, and Louis Phan (Sharlene) of San Mateo, CA; two grandchildren, Isabelle and Oliver; sister-in-law, Fotine Assimos of South Bend, IN; brother Wie Pan (Cassia) of Canton, MI and niece Anna; sister, Angie Phan (Lukman Nagaria) of Jakarta, Indonesia and niece and nephew Elaine and Brian Nagaria; and brother Andrew Pahn (Erly) and nephews Alex, Christopher, and Kenneth of Sydney, Australia. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife of 48 years, Katherine Phan.
The family has announced the following plans for memorial services. There will be a viewing at 10:00 and a service at 11:00 on Tuesday, Nov. 26 at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 3109 Scio Church Rd, Ann Arbor.
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