Dr. Richard Randolph Oldham

Dr. Richard Randolph Oldham, 74, of Flat Rock, N.C., died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on May 14 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Dick was born in Cincinnati on Aug. 24, 1939 to the late Herbert Spencer Oldham and Ada Schweitering Oldham.

At a very early age, it was apparent that Dick was not only going to succeed in academics, but he was a natural born athlete. Dick was an all-American swimmer during his years in high school. Up until recently, Dick held the Ohio state record for the 50 yard freestyle.

After graduating from St. Xavier high school in 1957, Dick received his appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Md. He was also a member of their swim team and lettered there for all four years of school as well as the captain of the team.

After graduation, Dick entered submarine school followed by nuclear power school. He made three nuclear patrols until retirement in 1965.

Following his resignation from the Navy, he pursued a career in medicine. Enrolling in Vanderbilt University Medical School in Nashville in 1967. After completing medical school and his residency, Dick went on complete the pathology program at Vanderbilt.

He began his pathology practice at Baptist Hospital in Nashville where he served as chairman of the department for many years. He was appointed visiting professor at Vanderbilt Medical School and served as president of Baptist Hospital. He was an extremely well respected member of the Nashville medical community until his retirement in 2006.

Dick was known for his gentle spirit and kindness to all who knew him. He enjoyed photography, studied and spoke fluent Italian and always sharpened his skills on his numerous trips to Florence, Italy.

For many years, Dick and his family summered in Montana where he renewed his love of nature and all living creatures, especially all of those in need. Glacier National Park was probably one of his most cherished works of God.

He loved his dog Bella and enjoyed her companionship particularly during his declining health.

Dick is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Susan Eslick Oldham; his two sons, Mark Oldham of St. Paul, Minn., and Jeffrey Oldham of Alexandria, Va.; three grandsons, Jeffrey Oldham, Dylan Oldham and Javier Oldham; his sisters, Linda Oldham of New York, and Jane Crenshaw of Cincinnati; brother, Jack Oldham and his wife Melanie of Aiken, S.C.; and his very special sister-in-law, Mary Jane and her husband Lawrence Price of Flat Rock.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Salvation Army of Hendersonville, 239 3rd Ave., Hendersonville, N.C.; Interfaith Assisted ministry of Hendersonville, 210 Eringhaus St., Hendersonville, N.C.; Four Seasons Hospice-571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, N.C. 28731; Community Partnership for Pets, P.O. Box 1021, Flat Rock, N.C. 28731

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of arrangements.