Amy Doran Keppel, MD, PhD

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Keppel, Amy Doran, MD, PhD age 63, of Edina, died January 7th, 2016. She fought a one year battle with simultaneous pancreatic and esophageal cancer, showing indomitable spirit throughout. Amy had an extraordinary range of talents and interests. She studied in Germany and Switzerland, becoming fluent in French and German. After graduating Mound HS, came a year at the American University in Paris. Then a BS in biology and an MS in zoology at the U of MN. Next a PhD in Parasitology, from U of Nebraska. Finally she completed U of MN Medical School in 1983, and a residency in Family Medicine at the Bethesda Lutheran Hospital in St. Paul. Next, serving for 5 years at Naval Hospital Charleston, SC, she rapidly advanced to the rank of Commander, and director of residency education for Family Medicine. In 1992 Amy returned to MN to raise her 2 children. She practiced Family Medicine with Health Partners for 5 years. She delivered over 100 babies during her career. A year off to be at home with her "high maintenance" children turned into eight. Amy returned to medicine doing urgent care, and spent her last years in practice back in Family Medicine at North Memorial Minnetonka clinic. Amy loved skiing and Tae Kwon Do, and was a 2nd degree black belt. Amy was a true gourmet cook. She was a voracious reader, and an expert knitter. One or more cats were always at her home. She traveled the world, especially enjoying France and Asia. Amy mentored many women, both in and out of medicine. She was an inspiration to her family and friends, and will be greatly missed. Special thanks to thoracic surgeon Francis Nichols of the Mayo clinic, and for the expertise and caring of many dozens of other doctors, nurses, and technicians at Mayo Clinic, Methodist Hospital and Frauenshuh cancer center. Amy is survived by her husband of 33 years, David Schneider, MD and by children Daniel Keppel, age 26 and Lyra, nee Russell Schneider, age 27. Also sister San Obermeyer, brother Russell Keppel, and niece Kyla Keppel. Memorial donations to Felinerescue.org. Funeral service Friday, January 29th at 11 AM, at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 4439 W. 50th St., Edina.

Published on January 17, 2016