Stephen C. Joseph,

Santa Fe, Nov. 24 Truel West,

Santa Fe, Nov. 27

STEPHEN C. JOSEPH NOVEMBER 25, 1937–NOVEMBER 24, 2023

Santa Fe — Stephen (Steve) was born in New York City on November 25, 1937 and died on November 24, 2023 at his home in Santa Fe with his wife, Elizabeth Preble, by his side.

After receiving his BA from Harvard University, his MD from Yale University and his MPH from Johns Hopkins University, Steve embarked on a long career of leadership in domestic and international public health and pediatric medicine. In the United States, Steve served as Commissioner of Health in New York City, Dean of the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, and US Assistant Secretary of Defense (Health Affairs). Internationally, he worked for USAID, UNICEF, and other organizations and academic institutions; and held long-term positions in Nepal (Peace Corps physician), Cameroon, Newfoundland, and Indonesia. After retirement, Steve’s volunteer activities included work with Amref Health Africa and practicing pediatrics in post-earthquake Haiti.

Steve loved the outdoors — mountains, sea, the beautiful high desert of New Mexico and the magical countryside of southwest France.

He will be remembered for his keen intellect, indomitable spirit, and commitment to social justice.

Steve is survived by his wife of 38 years, Elizabeth Preble, brother Jeffrey Joseph, daughters Denise Ellen Joseph and Tara Anne Joseph and four grandchildren.

Special thanks go to Margot and other EGIS staff who helped care for Steve in recent months with competence, affection, and a large dose of good humor. The family also thanks the devoted staff of Presbyterian Hospice of Northern New Mexico.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Doctors without Borders.

TRUEL WEST JUNE 9, 1952 - NOVEMBER 27, 2023

Santa Fe — Truel West passed away, surrounded by family. Born in Norton, Kansas, Truel spent most of his childhood in Denver. He graduated from Purdue University in 1974 with a degree in engineering. He moved to New Mexico in the mid-1970’s and began working at Los Alamos National Laboratory. During his career of more than 30 years, he worked on various projects, including the Lab’s International Technology Division, where his focus was on the nuclear nonproliferation program.

Away from work, Truel was ever-considerate, fun-loving, generous, and kind. The best vacation planner, he and Joan traveled the world birding, visiting gardens, and sampling local cuisine. He loved music and sang with the NM Symphony Chorus for many years. He shared his skills by supporting and working with many non-profit organizations. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Joan, family Peter & Tom Abrams, Mark and Christa Romwalter, 5 grandchildren, and his sister Sheree West. A celebration of his life will be held in January. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to your favorite charity.