Judson Klooster, D.D.S., former dean of the School of Dentistry passed away in Loma Linda, Calif., on Oct. 31, 2004. What follows are a few reflections on Dr. Klooster from Richard H. Hart, M.D., Dr.P.H., chancellor of Loma Linda University.

On behalf of the entire Loma Linda University family and Dr. Lyn Behrens, I would like to pause for a few moments to remember Judson Klooster and what he meant to Loma Linda University.

Jud was one of those deans who always saw the big picture, who not only could defend his discipline, but also understood and supported the entire university.

It was Jud that the university turned to in 1990, when La Sierra and Loma Linda University separated, to lead the faculty committee to develop the University’s first strategic plan that led us into the institution we are today.

Both Marquelle Klooster Anderson (Dr. Klooster’s sister) and Thor Bakland have referred to Jud’s proclivity to nod his head with his eyes closed during meetings. It was my privilege to sit around the table on dean’s council with Jud for several years and observe him. Among the deans it became common knowledge that though Jud’s eyes were closed and his head down there was always a slight smile on his face. But watch out, because he was always listening. And invariably when some key issue was coming up, Jud would rise up [and give his opinion] at a poignant point and then sit back down.

Judson Klooster was a great man who has benefited this university in many, many ways. As we look back on Jud’s characteristics as a leader, a Chinese saying comes to mind.

“Go to the people. Live among them. Learn from them. Love them. Start with what they know. Build on what they have. And of the greatest leaders, when their work is done, the people will say, ‘We have done it ourselves.’”

That was Jud, the gentle giant who always held up others, who supported others, who built a team around him, and we will always be grateful for him.