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THAL, ALAN P., DR. MD age 88, a resident of Golondrinas, New Mexico since 1972, passed away Friday, March 14, 2014. He was born on July 15, 1925 in Cape Town, South Africa to Alexander Thal and Bess Clouts. He was united in marriage with Felicia Jacobs on December 14, 1949 in Durban, South Africa. He is survived by his wife Felicia Thal of the family home in Golondrinas, NM; daughter: Alyson P. Thal of Corrales, NM; sons: John S. Thal and wife Gayla of Albuquerque, NM; Doug O. Thal and wife Kristin of Santa Fe, NM; grandchildren: Adam Gonzales, Owen Thal, Kevin Gonzales, Amy Gonzales, Kelly Gonzales, Alex Thal, Alistair Gonzales, Carson Thal, Kathryn Gonzales and Russell Thal; great-grandchildren: Malayna, Aiden, Anthony, Avery and Mayson; caregivers: Randy and Monica Taylor; Richard Lau. Dr. Thal earned his Medical Degree at the University of Cape Town, South Africa in December 1949. He did his internship at Cornell University in pathology 1950-1951 and another internship at John's Hopkins 1952-1953 in surgery. He completed his residency in surgery at the University of Minnesota, where he also finished as a Ph.D. He was a member of the original Open Heart Team at the University of Minnesota from 1953-1960. He then moved to Detroit, Michigan where he became chairman of the Department of Surgery at Wayne State University continuing his research. This culminated in his well-known book published in 1971, "Shock, A Physiologic Basis for Treatment". He then moved on to the University of Kansas Medical Center where he was professor of surgery and obtained research grants from the NIH and the National Academy of Science. His extensive research in thoracic and esophageal surgery led to the publication of over 150 publications from 1966-1972. In 1972, Dr. Thal developed an interest in ranching and raising purebred Hereford cattle, so he searched for a location where he could ranch and raise cattle, as well as serve as the local surgeon. They found their dream ranch outside of Las Vegas, NM where he ultimately served as a surgeon from 1972-1994. So many families were touched by the high quality surgery he was able to provide to Las Vegas. In 1994, Dr. Thal was forced to retire after a serious illness, but continued his research and invented several new surgical instruments and procedures which still bear his name. For the remainder of his life, he developed a keen interest in oil painting, and had several gallery shows. His paintings reflected his love for the New Mexico landscape and his love for his ranch. He will be remembered for his amazing love of life and commitment to family and his dogs. Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 11:00 am at The Thal Ranch in Golondrinas, NM. In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made In his recognition for the love of dogs and animals to Humane Society 100 Caja Del Rio Rd. Santa Fe, NM 87507. Please visit our website at: www.rogersmortuarynm.com to sign our online register book. Arrangements are under the direction of Rogers Mortuary 600 Reynolds Ave, Las Vegas, NM. 1-800-479-3511 or 505-425-3511.
        Published on: Tue March 18, 2014