In Memoriam: Bryce Dixon Breitenstein

1930-2024

by Sergey Y Tolmachev, Washington State University, US Transuranium and Uranium Registries

It is with deep sadness that we inform you of the passing of our esteemed member, Dr. Bryce Dixon Breitenstein, who passed away on 27 November 2024. Dr. Breitenstein was born 5 June 1930. He lived a long and productive life and was deeply engaged in the medical profession, an avid reader on many topics, and a passionate music lover.

Dr. Breitenstein was a valued member of the Health Physics Society (HPS) who made significant contributions to the field and community. He played a crucial role in occupational medicine and was the primary physician responsible for the treatment of the Atomic Man, a Hanford worker who received an unprecedented americium intake in 1976. From 1976 to 1982, he served as the director of the US Transuranium Registry at the Hanford Environmental Health Foundation, contributing significantly to research on radiation protection and nuclear worker safety.

Dr. Breitenstein joined the Columbia Chapter of the HPS (CCHPS) in 1978. A decade later, in 1988, he became a member of the HPS, further solidifying his commitment to the field. His contributions and dedication were recognized in 1989 when he became a lifetime member of CCHPS. In recognition of his technical contributions to the health physics profession, he received the Herbert M. Parker Award from CCHPS in 1982. He also served as chair of the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) Scientific Committee 57-17, which developed the wound model and prepared NCRP Report 156, Development of a Biokinetic Model for Radionuclide-Contaminated Wounds and Procedures for Their Assessment, Dosimetry, and Treatment.

Dr. Breitenstein remained deeply committed to education and knowledge-sharing throughout his career. In 2008, he was honored by the Herbert M. Parker Foundation to deliver the public lecture "Treating the Atomic Man: A Physician's Perspective," helping to promote education in the radiological sciences.

Dr. Breitenstein will be remembered for his dedication, expertise, and the lasting impact he had on our community. His contributions to health physics and occupational medicine will continue to inspire future generations.