Ian Charles Furness
Ian Charles Furness, 58, was the victim in a hit and run accident in Bangkok, Thailand and passed away as the result of his injuries on Monday, November 26. He was born on October 6, 1954 in Milwaukee to English immigrant parents, the second son of Eric and Kathleen Furness. Throughout his life he had a passion for England and was very proud of his English and Scottish heritage.
Ian graduated from Marquette University in 1976 where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology/Chemistry. He obtained his Doctorate from the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago in 1980. During medical school, Ian was selected for an Air Force medical scholarship. Upon completion of his surgical residency at New Berlin Memorial Hospital, he entered the United States Air Force and served as Director of Foot Clinics in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery for three years at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia. He was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal for his work there.
On May 31, 1980, Ian married Susan M. Gabres at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Milwaukee. In 1984, after completing his Air Force service, they returned to Wisconsin and together they started Family Foot Clinic in Fond du Lac and Chilton. They worked together for over 28 years to grow a successful practice and to serve the communities. Ian was on medical staff of the hospitals in Fond du Lac, Chilton, Waupun, and Oshkosh. He had great knowledge of his field and dedication to his profession and took on many leadership roles successfully. He was Board Certified in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. He was an active member of the Wisconsin Society of Podiatric Medicine and served as its President from 1991 to 1993. He was awarded the Meritorious Service Award by the American Society of Podiatric Medicine in 1996. Ian was appointed by the Governor to serve a third term on the Podiatry Affiliated Credentialing Board for the State of Wisconsin and was presently serving as Board Chair. Ian was a true humanitarian and provided much needed medical care on numerous trips with the Guatemala Medical Relief Project. His two sons, Andrew and Eric travelled with him several times to assist the group.
Ian was a devoted husband and father. The family enjoyed many travels together including visits to England and adventures/expeditions around the world. He also enjoyed car and motorcycle trips to unusual and distant locations.
Ian is survived by his wife Susan, sons Andrew Ian and Eric Charles, daughter Heather Kathleen; brothers Eric (Christine) Furness, Jeffrey (Laurie) Furness and their children and grandchildren; special relatives in England Ken (Alma) Furness and their daughters. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A service remembering his life will be held at 7pm Monday, December 10 following visitation from 3 till 7pm at Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, 524 N. Park Ave. Fond du Lac, WI.
In lieu of flowers, the family will forward memorials to Ian’s favorite charities.
Ian was a loving and devoted family man, a loyal and helpful friend. He lived a very full life and will be dearly missed by all who loved him and knew him.
Uecker-Witt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Additional information and guestbook may be found at www.ueckerwitt.com