Sheldon Davidson, 85 years young, passed away on February 25, 2013. "Shelly" was born in Chicago, Illinois to immigrant parents Anna Swerdlove Davidson and William Jack Davidson.

Dr. Davidson obtained his bachelor's degree in Biological Chemistry from the University of Illinois. His master's degree thesis was entitled "Factors Affecting Vitamin A in the Blood." He also was an Instructor in Biological Chemistry at the University of Illinois Medical School.

Sheldon graduated from the Chicago Medical School and received five years of ophthalmological surgical training at both the U.S. Public Health Service Hospital and Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. In 1963, USPHS transferred him to Phoenix, Arizona to open an eye clinic for the Indian Health Service. In addition to his clinic work, he would travel to the different Native American reservations in Arizona, sometimes on horseback. After several years of working with the Indian Health Service, he established a private practice in Phoenix. A few years later, he established a longstanding ophthalmological partnership with his friend Lawrence Frazin, M.D.

Dr. Davidson was one of the first eye doctors in Phoenix to perform laser surgery for nearsightedness. He specialized in cataract and lens implant surgery, glaucoma and pediatric surgery. He took special pride in his ability to assist children with strabismus - crossed eyes - and other muscle problems. Sheldon was a past president of the Phoenix Ophthalmological Society. He chaired the Advisory Committee on Special Education for the State of Arizona. He also served as Vice-Chairman of the Eye Section at St. Joseph's Hospital. As Chief of Ophthalmology, he operated the pediatric clinic for Children's Rehabilitative Services at St. Joseph's Hospital for 43 years. While others might have difficulty examining children, he had a unique ability working with and understanding children and those who could not easily communicate. His great sense of play and creativity drove his work and life.

During World War II, the thriving Jewish population of Macedonia was decimated and their synagogues destroyed. After traveling to Macedonia, Shelly was instrumental in the fundraising and building of a new synagogue for the two hundred Jews that remain in that country; the synagogue was completed in 2000. He enjoyed the warm hospitality of the Macedonian people the numerous times he visited. He also had a great enthusiasm for the archaeology and history of that country and that part of the world--archaeology and history being two of his many lifelong interests.

Dr. Davidson is survived by his eldest sister, Shirley Hecht, and his children Laura (Bill Crowley), Sally (Charles Ables), William and Jennifer (Antony Hou). He is also survived by grandchildren Rachel, Amelia, Aaron and Joy and nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members and friends.