In Memory of Donald James Lulu, M.D.

Donald James Lulu, M.D. died Wednesday, October 20, 2004. He was born, May 6, 1926 in Chicago, Illinois. He completed his Doctor of Medicine at the University of Illinois college of Medicine in 1949 and went on to serve in the US Navy as a Medical Officer and Flight Surgeon. During his time in the Navy, Donald put together and headed a small swing band in which he loved to play the clarinet.

Dr. Lulu began a residency in General Surgery at the Veterans Hospital in Des Moines, and during his tenure at the VA his career was distinguished by prolific professional publications, lecturing engagements and leadership appointments. He was pivotal in the Hospital’s General Surgery Residency Program and was appointed Clinical Associate Professor of Surgery at the University of Iowa. He served as Chief of Surgery and later Chief of Staff at the VA. He was recognized for his many contributions in the compassionate delivery of health care to the nation’s veterans as a skilled surgeon, researcher, and inspirational educator. He later became Medical Director for Mercy Medical Center. Dr. Lulu was a Fellow in the American Academy of Surgeons. Dr. Lulu had been a member of the Polk County Medical Society since 1952.

In retirement, Dr. Lulu loved to cook and spend time with his family. He enjoyed the opera, classical music and was an avid reader. He is survived by his wife Marilyn, six children and eleven grandchildren.