Pioneers in Clinical Chemistry: George N. Bowers, Jr., MD, and Robert B. McComb, PhD

Abstract

Two of the most significant individuals in the recent history of clinical chemistry have died. George N. Bowers, Jr., MD, 89, died on August 16, 2015 (1), and Robert B. McComb, PhD, 89, died on January 22, 2016 (2). George and Bob formed a unique partnership that made significant contributions to the field of clinical chemistry in addition to their individual accomplishments over a period of about 35 years. They had very different personalities but complemented each other well. George was the extrovert with boundless energy and enthusiasm. He loved working with his hands in the laboratory, but his real strength was his vision and role as a persuasive advocate for the various issues he saw as important. In contrast, Bob was quiet and modest. He preferred to work in the background and was the quintessential thoughtful and meticulous experimental chemist. As a tandem, they are reminiscent of 2 All-American running backs on West Point's football team in the late 1940s; Felix (Doc) Blanchard (“Mr. Inside”) and Glenn Davis (“Mr. Outside”), both winners of the Heisman Trophy. The many contributions of Drs. Bowers and McComb to both the science and the profession of clinical chemistry were made while sharing the direction of the chemistry laboratory at Hartford Hospital, always recognizing that their …