What’s up, Doc?

Approximately 150 people gathered at the Grange last Thursday evening to celebrate the retirement of Dr. Gerry Yukevich from his medical practice. Michael Loberg, a longtime dear friend, was the master of ceremonies as folks sat at tables enjoying food provided by Jaimie Hamlin. The Wicked Good Musical Revue performed a rousing remake of the song “Sherry” renamed “Gerry.” Poet Rose Styron read a wonderful tribute to Gerry written by Arnie Reisman (who was off-Island), and a keynote speech was delivered by colleague Michael Goldfein. The evening concluded with the man himself thanking everyone for their participation in the love fest, and then launched into a quite animated delivery of “Aba Daba Honeymoon.” Gerry, an active supporter of the greater Island community, will continue his much-appreciated involvement with Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard and the Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, among other things.

Hanging Up His Stethoscope
By Arnie Reisman

Is there a doctor in the house?
Gerry Yukevich
Gerry Yukevich

Is there a doctor in the house?
Gerry Yukevich comes to mind
Comes to our mind
As he came to our rescue
Treated mind & body with charm
Administrating with friendship
Ministering with humor
He saw into our ailments
And remained calm until we were
He was the eye in our hurricane
He healed with his heart
Dispensed cures and inklings
Played music in our souls
To keep us in tune like a piano
He reset our keys
He tickled our ivories
Is there a doctor in the house?
Gerry Yukevich comes to mind

If ghastly or just a glitch
You’d find comfort in his niche
Doctor Gerry Yukevich
No longer in the office
No longer in the clinic
No longer in the hospital
The doctor is in the house
Truly in the house, his own house
Sitting down at his own piano
Resetting his own keys
Tuning up the rest of his life