A Dedicated Doctor’s Legacy

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pillar of family medicine in Coral Gables for nearly 60 years, Charles Dunn, M.D. ’62, was looking forward to pursuing one of his other longtime passions — train travel — after he retired in early 2024. “Traveling by train is always a wonderful experience,” he said. “It is a safe and energy-efficient mode of transportation.”

Sadly, Dr. Dunn passed away in August at the age of 87. His dreams of riding the train to points north and spending time with his family, including his wife, Kathryn, seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, were left unrealized.

Before he passed, Dr. Dunn looked back on his career knowing his dedication to medicine touched countless lives, left a lasting impact on patients and his alma mater, and helped shape medical policies. “It’s been an amazing career, and I wouldn’t have changed a thing,” he said.

Dr. Dunn, who grew up in South Florida, graduated from the Miller School and was inducted into the Iron Arrow Honor Society and Alpha Omega Alpha. He said his medical school education prepared him well for a career in general medicine. “I had excellent inpatient and outpatient training across a broad spectrum of medical specialties,” he said.

In 1965, Dr. Dunn joined a general practice in Miami, where he would remain for his entire career. He cared for patients, some from birth to death, often working nights and weekends. “We took care of everyone who visited the office, regardless of their complaint or ability to pay,” he said.

Dr. Dunn was also dedicated to advancing medicine in the community. He held pivotal roles with the Dade County Medical Association and Florida Academy of Family Physicians and was chief of the Department of Family Medicine at Doctors Hospital in Coral Gables. His contributions earned him the Miller School’s Distinguished Alumnus Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997.

He also served on the board of directors for the Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation. During his tenure, the foundation forged a partnership with the Miller School, resulting in three vital programs.

His interest in train travel began when he moved to South Florida by rail. That interest deepened during a train trip to San Francisco in the 1960s. After returning from California, he became president of the Miami Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society and Florida Coalition of Rail Passengers and was thrilled to witness the advent of the Metrorail and Brightline in South Florida.

Train travel for Dr. Dunn reflected a connection, not just between distant places, but among passengers experiencing the companionship of a shared journey. In the timeless fashion of a doctor deeply connected to those he served, he remained unwavering in his dedication to his patients, committed to accompanying them on their journey towards wellness. Dr. Dunn’s selfless approach to patient care was an inspiration to all — we honor his legacy and celebrate his life.

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