Sam's San Francisco Chronicle obituary

This is to appear in the newspaper's Jan. 25 obituaries section:

Samuel C. Hughes, M.D.

For every night out, there is the perfect suit and tie. For every opera, there is the perfect aria. For every ballet, there is the perfect pas de deux. For every flowerpot, there is the perfect orchid and for every scented room, there is the perfect gardenia. For every family, there is the perfect son, brother, uncle, friend. Sam loved his garden, books and music, and liberal politics. He loved his family and many close friends throughout the world.

Samuel C. Hughes, M.D., a professor in the department of anesthesia and perioperative care at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF), an attending physician at San Francisco General Hospital and a leading international figure in obstetrical anesthesia, died on January 20, 2008, at age 61 after a year-long battle with pancreatic cancer.

During the course of his career, he provided compassionate care to countless underserved patients undergoing surgery at SFGH and acted as a voice of reason in the early days of the AIDS crisis when hysteria threatened the ability of at-risk populations to receive surgical treatment. He was valued by all who worked with him professionally as the true embodiment of a gentleman and a scholar.

Dr. Hughes is survived by his sisters Lillian Crispin (Ed) and Elaine Singleton (David); brother, George (Judy); nieces, nephews, grandnieces and nephews, and many, many dear friends.

A celebration of his life is being planned. For details as they become available please visit: samhughesmd.blogspot.com

Donations can be made to Sam's Garden, The Wellness Community Delaware, 4801 Lancaster Pike, Wilmington, DE 19807, or a charity of your choice.