Greater Jamestown AM News
Posted by Linda Johnson
RECOGNIZING A COMMUNITY LEADER
The Rotary Club of Greater Jamestown AM recently bestowed a Paul Harris Fellow to community leader, Dr. William A. Geary, pathologist at UPMC Chautauqua WCA and Busti town justice in appreciation of his service and contributions to Chautauqua County. Pictured (from left to right) is Bill Briggs, TRF chair, Dr. Geary, and Steve Hayes, president. Bill Briggs, himself a Paul Harris Fellow and charter member of the club said, "We bestow this honor to Dr. Geary not only for his notable integrity to advance the overall health and well-being of this community, but for his many contributions, support, and spirit of 'service above self' to his patients, his work and his community"...
"Today is a distinct occasion to publicly acknowledge Dr. Geary’s noteworthy involvement to the betterment of this world,” continued Briggs. “I am delighted to present this special award to Dr. Geary,” added Dr. Bert Rappole, retired surgeon and charter member of the club. “This gift is our special way to offer our appreciation for your compassionate work in this community. The mission of the Rotary Foundation is to empower good will, advance world understanding, and extend peace through the improvement of health and community. This morning, we are privileged to give tribute to you, Bill, as part of this great Rotary tradition.”
Ken Lasker, charter member of the club echoed Briggs and Rappole’s sentiments. “Last summer my son, Josh, was diagnosed with cancer,” Lasker said. “Bill was there for my family in a way I could never offer adequate praise. I mentioned to my son that Dr. Geary was receiving this award and asked Josh if he wanted to offer a few words in recognition of Bill’s distinction.” Ken recited Josh’s hand-written note, “After more than a month of hand-holding by Dr. Geary, there are two factors that I realized I have never been able to carry out to successfully show my eminent appreciation for everything Dr. Geary did for me; and, how would I ever be able to pay him back. He touched me like he had touched the lives of so many others. I cannot imagine Jamestown without him. He is a brilliant scholar and a kind friend whose expertise and sound reason guided me through my darkest days. I am grateful everyday for the positive impact he has impressed upon my life. He is truly a worthy recipient of this honor.
"I am humbled by this honor", said Geary. I want to extend my appreciation and thanks first and foremost to my wife, Kathy, alongside everyone in this rooms. When family and friends question why I live in Jamestown, the only regret I acknowledge is that I did not arrive in the city sooner. It has been a wonderful thirteen years and a privilege to serve my patients, our justice system. and the residents of this great community. Thank you."
Geary moved to Busti in 2003 to begin his practice as a pathologist at WCA Hospital, now with a new name, UPMC Chautauqua WCA. He has served as president of the medical staff at the hospital and past president of the Chautauqua County Board of Health where he remains a member. Originally from Miami, Florida, Geary’s medical career spans several states and prominent medical positions.