Dr. Sullivan was born July 19, 1940 in Chicago, Illinois to Dr. Donald “Buzz” and Marie “Gracie” Sullivan. He graduated high school from Gilmour Academy in Cleveland, Ohio before going on to complete his undergraduate studies at the University of Notre Dame. Upon graduating in 1961, he went on to complete medical school and his residency at Northwestern University during which time he also completed an internship at Cook County Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. After completing his residency, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed at Sheppard AFB in Texas where he ultimately reached the rank of Major. In 1972, he moved to Winter Haven to become a partner in a private practice as an Orthopedic Surgeon. Ironically, in this practice he met the dedicated office staff that still served with him to this very day. Over the next 46 years, he accomplished many things in both his career and life in the community. At Winter Haven Hospital, where he has been on staff since arriving in town, he served as Chief of Staff, Chairman of Orthopedics, Chairman of the Surgical Section, Chairman of the Executive Committee, Member of the Board of Trustees, and Vice President of Medical-Surgical Affairs. In addition, he also participated in many other medical associations including; American Medical Association, Florida Medical Association, Florida Orthopedic Society, Irish American Orthopedic Society, International Arthroscopy Association, Arthroscopy Association of North America, and was a Fellow with the Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and Board of Orthopedic Surgery. He also served the American Cancer Society as a Member of the Board of Trustees and the President of the East Polk County Board of Directors, and was also actively serving as a Member of the Board of Trustees at Weber University. Furthermore, he received a Humanitarian Service Award from WeCare, volunteered at the Harry-Anna Crippled Children’s Hospital as part of his Florida Elks Club affiliation, and was also a proud member of the American Legion and Knights of Columbus.
Beyond his patients and the community that loved him so dearly, his family will miss him the most. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Deborah, his children, Janie and Patrick (Jennifer), and grandchildren, Kara, Laila, and Rylie as well as his siblings Jane Warren, Dr. Donald (Bretta) Sullivan, Kim (James) Ryan, and many nieces and nephews. His family was the most important thing in his life. Whether it was going on family trips or just sitting around and watching Notre Dame Football, he enjoyed spending as much time as he could with them. When he wasn’t with his family, you could find him with his friends at the golf course, on the racket ball court, or simply at the local bar having some laughs.
A memorial service will be held Wednesday December 5, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Winter Haven. In lieu of sending flowers, please consider making a donation in his name to one of the following amazing organizations that provided such compassionate care to him: Good Shepard Hospice at 105 Arneson Ave, Auburndale, FL 33823 or the Cassidy Cancer Center at 200 Ave F NE, Winter Haven, FL 33881.
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