Robert D. Joosten

When 1980 College alumnus Robert D. Joosten passed in 2008 of pancreatic cancer, a significant void was left in the pharmacy community of southern Idaho. Robert, an 18-year pharmacist in the Burley area, was employed with the Burley Regional Medical Center at the time of his death.

Robert’s wife, Jane, says her husband of 25 years was passionate about his work, patients he counseled, and mentoring he provided to pharmacy students during rotations and technicians he trained. During his career, Robert the recipient of several pharmacy and community awards including the Best Pharmacist Award from the South Idaho Press and District Award of Merit from the Boy Scouts of America.

His passion for helping others was not only exemplified in his profession but also carried throughout his life, says Jane. He was a great source of comfort and support to her and their two children, Geoff and Becky. He encouraged their children to be the best they could be in their respective careers, Jane added.

In recognition and celebration of Robert’s life and career as a caring pharmacist, and to help qualified students who share in his passion for the profession, family and friends of the College of Pharmacy at Idaho State University have created the Robert D. Joosten Memorial Scholarship Endowment at the Idaho State University College of Pharmacy.