Dr. Shane G. Ferguson, pediatrician

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Dr. Shane G. Ferguson, 37, of East Amherst, pediatrician, died Friday, Sept. 15, 2006, at his East Amherst home surrounded by his family.

Born in Niagara Falls, he was a graduate of LaSalle Senior High School. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree with summa cum laude honors in biological sciences at the University at Buffalo and obtained his medical degree at Buffalo School of Medicine, also with honors. Dr. Ferguson completed his residency in pediatrics at Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo. He was board certified and was the recipient of the Frederick B. Wilkes Award of Excellence in Pediatrics.

Dr. Ferguson was a beloved pediatrician. So strong was his dedication to the welfare of his children, he was once given the Compeer Volunteer of the Year Award for his efforts in assisting troubled and disadvantaged youths.

Dr. Ferguson practiced professionally in the area since 1998. He served in the past as medical director of Sister's Hospital School Health Program, and as school physician for the Hamburg Central School District. He also spent time assisting children at the Child Advocacy Center of Buffalo. He discontinued his private practice at Town and Village Pediatrics of Amherst during Dec. 2004 so that he could fight his illness.

Dr. Ferguson was involved with early studies of surfactant technology, a special medicine which has saved the lives of thousands of premature babies around the world. For his efforts, he was given research honors for a study conducted in 1991.

An avid reader, he particularly enjoyed fantasy novels and liked to put together challenging puzzles.

Dr. Ferguson is survived by his wife, Dr. Gail H.; his parents, John and Marilyn; two daughters, Madeline and Rebecca; a son, Tobey; and two brothers, Dr. Shawn and Michael.

A prayer service was offered Tuesday, Sept. 19 in Dengler and Roberts Funeral Home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Mary's Catholic Church.