O. Max Jardon, M.D., a longtime friend and colorful colleague of the UNMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, died Aug. 23 in Corpus Christi, Texas. He was 72. Dr. Jardon graduated from the department’s residency program in 1972 and was the second resident to complete the modern program.
A 1952 graduate of Nebraska State College in Kearney, Dr. Jardon received his doctorate from UNMC in 1957. Following a year of internship at Clarkson Hospital and four years of active duty in the Army, Dr. Jardon entered family practice in Loop City, Neb. He subsequently returned to Omaha to complete his orthopaedic residency at UNMC.
After completing his residency in 1972, Dr. Jardon became an assistant professor of orthopaedic surgery (1972-1974), was promoted to associate professor (1974-1996), and served seven months as acting chairman of the department in 1982. Upon his retirement from the department in 1996, Dr. Jardon was distinguished with an appointment as professor emeritus for his longstanding contributions to the department.
A native of Rockport, Mo., Dr. Jardon’s outstanding contributions also reached beyond UNMC. In 1971, he joined the Air Force Reserve attaining the rank of brigadier general. Dr. Jardon graduated from the USAF FLT Surgeons School in 1980 and the USAF War College in 1981. His years of service granted him many military distinctions.
Dr. Jardon is survived by his wife, Moyra Jardon of Fulton, Texas; children, Eric Jardon of Illinois and Karla Jardon of San Clemente, Calif.; brother, Don Jardon of Alma, Neb.; two grandchildren, Kris and Carrie Jardon; and two great-grandchildren, Ryan Kathleen and Kai.
Graveside services were Aug. 26 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to a charity of your choice. The family invites individuals to leave a message or memory at www.porterloring.com by selecting Visitation and Services. Select ‘Sign Guestbook’ at the bottom of the individual memorial.