Renowned for her contributions to the field of physical therapy, Lucinda Ann “Cindy” Pfalzer has passed away at the age of 67 in Fenton. Her remarkable career, spanning decades, was marked by groundbreaking research and significant academic achievements. Those wishing to honor her memory are encouraged to donate to a charity of their choice in her name, as per the family’s wishes.
Born on December 7, 1957, in Batavia, New York, Cindy was the daughter of Richard H. and Rita M. (Wagner) Pfalzer. She completed her high school education at Alexander High School in 1975. Cindy pursued higher education at Ithaca College, earning a B.S. in 1979, followed by an M.A. and a Ph.D. from Ohio State University in 1984 and 1989, respectively.
In 1986, Cindy embarked on her academic career at UM-Flint as an assistant professor. Her dedication and expertise led to her promotion to associate professor in 1992, and professor in 1998. In 2001, she further honed her skills with an oncology clinical research fellowship at the National Institutes of Health. She concluded her active faculty role on December 31, 2013.
Throughout her career, Professor Pfalzer was celebrated for her scholarly work in physical therapy, specifically in breast cancer, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, oncology, and upper quadrant overuse injuries. Her ability to secure research grants was impressive, and her numerous publications in top-tier peer-reviewed journals are a testament to her influence in the field.
Between 2001 and 2013, Cindy served as an associate investigator in a prospective study aimed at identifying factors influencing morbidity following breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This work has significantly shaped healthcare reforms in oncology rehabilitation, providing valuable clinical insights.
Cindy’s leadership also extended to administrative roles, including associate director for research and post-professional education (1994-2012), director of the Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy Program (2009-12), and interim director of the Department of Physical Therapy (2012-13).
Her passion for teaching was evident as she played a crucial role in launching the first doctoral program in physical therapy on UM-Flint’s campus in 2013. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) recognized her contributions by naming her a fellow. She was instrumental in establishing the APTA Oncology Section and served as its president. In acknowledgment of her service, the Board of Regents honored her by naming her professor emerita of physical therapy.
Cindy is survived by her mother, Rita Greco of Port Orchard, Washington; siblings, Nicolette (Jim) Linneman of Maryville, Tennessee, Deborah (Barry) Newman of Houston, Henry Pfalzer of Pipe Creek, Texas, and Cris (Larry) Taylor of Hadlock, Washington; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Richard H. Pfalzer. Tributes can be shared at sharpfuneralhomes.com.
