Harley Hijinks

  I worked with Paul for several decades as mentor, colleague and friend. His empathy, humor and infectious laugh kept all around him in good spirits, even in the darkest of times. He learned and led in the power of genetics to predict, intervene and prevent heritable illness and translated this into implementing the development of our Medical Genetics and public health programs aimed at accomplishing this overall objective. He was able to market concrete requests in very interesting ways. When our biochemical genetics lab had a need for new technology, specifically a new gas chromatography/mass spectrometer, he identified a descendent of Mr. Woodruff who obtained funds for this equipment and had it airlifted to Atlanta. The donors were members of the Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Club and wanted to pick this delicate equipment up and carry it in a motorcade to demonstrate the club's contribution. Paul adroitly prevented this disaster to the sensitive equipment by picking up the machine, but leaving the box with some artificial weight for the Club's successful motorcade. All were happy and the GC/MS works to date. I have a photo of Paul and me on one of the motorcycles with full grins and could snail mail it if you have an address.

Know that Nancy and I share in the grief of the premature loss of a great humanitarian, educator and friend.

Love,
Skip

Louis J. Elsas, MD
Professor, University of Miami