Rest in peace, Naples and Stalter

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January 28, 2012

Anonymous Daily Star The Daily Star Sat Jan 28, 2012, 02:25 AM EST

Our area recently lost two important and influential members of our community: Oneonta surgeon Dr. Kenneth D. Stalter and newly elected Sixth Ward Council member Mike Naples.

Stalter died Jan. 18; Naples died Jan. 9. Both were 58 years old.

Stalter was a partner at Oneonta Surgical Associates, practicing at A.O. Fox Hospital. He lived with enviable vigor and intelligence, dedicating his life to saving others as a surgeon and exploring our world as an avid mountain climber and athlete.

Among his many accomplishments, the surgeon successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and later Mount Everest in 2008, after two failed attempts because of weather conditions. He also did missionary work among those living near Everest in Nepal during the 1990s, never losing an opportunity to help others. Ever the Renaissance man, Stalter was a master fly-fisher, carpenter, maker of stained glass and scholar on Native American artifacts. He excelled at long-distance running and biking, finishing 14 full-length triathlons and three Boston Marathons.

Those who knew him, including practice partner Dr. Jonathan Sastic, said that even with his wealth of talents, gifts and achievements, Stalter remained mild-mannered and kind, putting the needs of his patients and others first in his life. Another partner, Dr. Mark Davidson, said in the face of leukemia, his colleague did not slow down. After learning of his illness, Statler showed his dedication to his profession, continuing to work while receiving chemotherapy.

Fox Hospital President John Remillard said that Stalter "was one of Fox's heroes." And Bassett Surgeon in Chief Steven Heneghan wrote aptly and accurately that Stalter's impact on him and Bassett "has been great. His impact on our community, particularly Oneonta, is far greater. Words fail in describing how unique and greater than life Ken was to us all."

Like Stalter, Naples dedicated his life to serving others. He brought an enthusiasm to his work for the city of Oneonta similar to what Stalter brought to his patients and practice.

Dan Obergefell, former head of the city water department, said of Naples, "You couldn't find a more dedicated guy."

With his retirement in 2009 after more than 30 years on the city work force, Naples could have spent his days away from City Hall. Instead, he dedicated his time and effort to successfully run as an independent for a post on the Common Council in 2011.

Mayor Dick Miller rightfully praised Naples, remembering him as "refreshingly blunt, passionate about the city and with a great sense of humor."

Stalter and Naples both showed a passion for life and service that will surely be missed by our community and those who knew them.