Philip Irwin McNamee

May 11, 1936 – September 29, 2024

Dr. Philip I. McNamee, 88, died peacefully on September 29, 2024, with his family around him. He was born on May 11, 1936, in Charleston, West Virginia, and lived a life marked by intellectual curiosity, dedication to his profession, and a deep love for his family. In addition to his remarkable intellect, Dr. McNamee was known for his quick wit and infectious sense of humor. He had a unique ability to make everyone around him laugh, lighting up every room he entered.

Dr. McNamee earned his undergraduate degree in Chemistry from Northwestern University and pursued a graduate degree at Stanford University School of Medicine. At Stanford, while in a chemistry class, he met Carol Hodgson, who became the love of his life. They shared a bond built on their passion for learning, which blossomed into a marriage full of love and companionship that lasted 64 years.

After completing his medical education, Dr. McNamee joined the U.S. Army as a doctor and served his country with distinction. He was stationed in El Paso, Texas; Honolulu, Hawaii, at Tripler Army Medical Center; Salinas, California, at Fort Ord; and Okinawa, Japan. He was honorably discharged as a Major in 1970. Following his military service, he began his OBGYN practice in Honolulu, Hawaii, and later became a founding partner of the Pacific In Vitro Fertilization Institute as a Reproductive Endocrinologist. Dr. McNamee dedicated 35 years to helping families grow, bringing new life into the world, and creating countless cherished family members.

Dr. McNamee was a leader in his field, serving as president of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Beyond his medical contributions, he was also deeply involved in the local arts community, serving on the board of the Ballet Hawaii, performing in the Nutcracker Ballet as the grandfather for many years, and serving on the Hawaii Opera Theatre board.

A man of many passions, Dr. McNamee loved playing his ukulele, singing with the Silver Foxes group, and playing tennis, golf, and table tennis. When he wasn’t helping others build families, you could oben find him at Waialae Country Club, enjoying rounds of golf or a tennis match with his friends. He also shared a deep passion for travel with Carol, together exploring the far reaches of the globe, traveling to almost every continent, and collecting memories and experiences that enriched their lives.

Dr. McNamee was predeceased by his older brother Raymond in 2013. He is survived by his beloved wife, Carol McNamee; his daughter, Carolyn Sandrolini; his son, Philip McNamee Jr. (Michele); and five grandchildren: Gabriel Sandrolini, Madeleine Sandrolini, Emma Sandrolini Tersini (Raymond), Samuel McNamee, and Evan McNamee; and sister-in-law, Ann McNamee.

Dr. McNamee's life was defined not only by his career and accomplishments but also by the love, laughter, and wisdom he shared with others. He touched the lives of many, and his legacy of kindness, humor, and dedication will continue to inspire those who knew him.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. A Celebration of Life honoring Dr. McNamee will be held on Friday, January 24th, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Waialae Country Club. Donations in his memory may be made to Ballet Hawaii, Hawaii Opera Theatre, or the Kapiolani Health Foundation.