Robert Charles Packman, M.D., of Creve Coeur, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday evening, September 30, 2023.
Dr. Packman was born August 18, 1932 in Saint Louis to Helen (Bernhardt) and Simon Packman. He earned his undergraduate and medical degrees at Washington University in 1953 and 1956, and completed his internal medicine residency at Barnes Hospital and specialty training in endocrinology at Duke University. He served as captain in the United States Air Force from 1958 to 1960, during which he was stationed in Germany. He was one of the early partners at the Maryland Medical Group, and served as Professor of Clinical Medicine at Washington University School of Medicine for over 35 years. After retiring from clinical practice, he joined Centene Corporation, a young regional insurance company at the time, as Chief Medical Officer. As the company grew, he was appointed Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs, and continued in an advisory role until his retirement at age 89.
Dr. Packman was a dedicated and accomplished physician. He devoted himself to the care of his patients, forming lifelong, multi-generational relationships. He was committed to improving the delivery of healthcare for all. As chief resident at Barnes Hospital, he designed and created the first modern edition of the Washington Manual of Medical Therapeutics, transforming what had been a handbook for in-house medical trainees into a portable reference for clinicians everywhere, which continues to be one of the best selling medical texts worldwide. He was actively involved in the care of patients during the early days of the AIDS epidemic, and was known and trusted for his compassion and discretion. During his long career, Dr. Packman held many leadership positions, but closest to his heart were the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committees, which he chaired for many years at both Barnes Hospital and Centene. He was honored to have two professorships established in his name at the Washington University School of Medicine: The Neidorff Family and Robert C. Packman Professorship, and The Robert C. Packman Professorship in Virology.
A talented pianist, Dr. Packman created and hosted several radio broadcast programs over his lifetime, most recently “The Practicing Physician”, a live program on KFUO and Classic 107.3 featuring the musical talents of physician friends and colleagues. In addition to classical music, his passions included contemporary art, travel, and gardening. He was a loyal patron of the Chamber Music Society of St. Louis (for which he served on the board of directors), Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, and many other local arts and service organizations.
He often said that the ingredients of a good life were structure, purpose, and playfulness. Famous for his pranks and sense of humor, he was equally known for his warmth, generosity, and devotion to family and friends.
Dr. Packman is survived by his beloved husband and partner of forty-five years, Leonard Powers; adoring niece Sarah Packman (Robert Caldwell) and nephew David Packman (Elise Stephens); dear sister-in-law Beverly (Ronald) Troutt; lifelong family friend Donald Tomlinson; and many many friends, relatives, patients, and colleagues. He was predeceased by his brother, Dr. Paul Packman.
Rindskopf-Roth Funeral Chapel is entrusted with arrangements. At Dr. Packman’s request, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Chamber Music Society of St. Louis, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis, or the charitable organization of your choice.
