I owe my interest in science to a large degree to my Uncle Ralph, a man of genius and impish wit. I’m proud to share just a bit of his rich and fascinating life.
Dr. Ralph Silas Weston DVM 1912 – 2004
Dr. Ralph Silas Weston, 91, of Carmel passed away March 22, 2004 after a long illness. He was born near Richmond, CA, July 11, 1912. Dr. Weston graduated from San Rafael High School and then from Texas A& M with a doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. He was in the U.S. Army, the U.S. Air Force, and the Air Force Reserves for 25 years; retiring as a Lt. Col. While in the Air Force he began researching cancer treatments. As a private sector veterinarian he developed a method of killing inoperable tumors with procaine – a common local anesthetic. Similar techniques are still in development today, making his discovery forty years ahead of its time. He also worked with NASA in the development and safety of space food and inspected meat, eggs, and dairy products sent to our servicemen.
Dr. Weston was a past president and life member of the Monterey S.P.C.A., on the board of the American Kennel Club, and was on the Dog Show Veterinary staff for 28
years. He owned and operated a veterinary office and separate clinic in Monterey, treating the pets of such luminaries as Bing Crosby, Jane Fonda, Greer Carson, and Lady Kinnoull to mention a few. Dr. Weston developed an animal care program for the girl scouts, and taught many young people swimming, and along with his wife Helen, taught piano at his home. A number of his music students went on to national prominence. He was past president of the Carmel Toastmasters and the Tri-county Veterinary association. He was an avid inventor, world traveler, amateur photographer, painter, cartoonist, and lyricist. He was in the process of writing a book about his life experience.
He will be remembered for his love of all animals, especially poodles, and his skill as a raconteur. He was a multifaceted introspective man who though joyful in life also possessed a pragmatic and brilliant searching intellect. He will be missed by his family and the many people whose lives he touched. Dr. Weston was preceded in death by his wife Helen Weston, an accomplished pianist, organist, and music teacher. His brother Bob and Bob’s wife Lois passed away in June and July of 2011. He is survived by nephew Robert J. Western and wife Sharyn Lewis of Monterey; niece Dorothy Rhoads and husband Dan of Lemoore, CA, and one great nephew, Tommy Rhoads; one great niece, Mandy Vannote; and four great great nieces and nephews.
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