Rodman D. Carter, M.D., 90;
Longtime Bassett Hospital Urologist
COOPERSTOWN – Rodman Dana Carter, M.D., a long-time surgeon at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital whose career in urology spanned over 40 years, passed away following a valiant battle with cancer Friday afternoon, Dec. 28, 2018, at his home in Cooperstown with his family by his side. He was 90.
Born April 6, 1928, in Ashtabula, Ohio, he was a son of the Rev. Edwin R. Carter, a minister in the Congregational Church and the United Church of Christ, and Lillian Herter Carter. After graduating from high school he served his country in the Navy.
A graduate of Harvard University, Class of 1949, he received urological and surgical training at Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons.
At one time he worked with Dr. Virginia Apgar, the creator of the Apgar Scale for grading babies’ health
at birth.
In 1953, Dr. Carter arrived at Bassett Hospital, where he enjoyed a long career. Board certified in general surgery and urology, he became a member of the senior staff in 1962, and until 1993 he continued teaching the house staff the art and science of surgery as the hospital grew and expanded.
After he retired from Bassett and began spending winters in Palm Coast, Fla., he continued to offer his services in that area until he completely retired in 1997.
He was a member of American Legion in Florida, and was an ardent supporter of the Friends of Bassett.
Dr. Carter is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary Imogene Newell Carter, a native of Cooperstown. They were married April 18, 1958, in a ceremony in Cromwell, Conn., with Dr. Carter’s father officiating.
Dr. Carter is further survived by one daughter, Michelle “Micki” Weir of Granville; two granddaughters, Dana Temp of Esperance and Shawna Tierney of Bristol, Maine; four great-grandchildren, Olivia Temp, and Finnegan, Liam and Angus Tierney; one sister, Caroline Wall; two sisters-in-law, Noreen Newell of Cooperstown, and Marion “Billie” Williams of Portland, Oregon; and many nieces and nephews.
A private gathering will be held later this spring.
Memorial donations may be made to Friends of Bassett, 1 Atwell Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care, 297 River Street Service Road, Oneonta, NY 13820.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home.