Ralph Cash, M.D., a pediatrician who served as a part-time attending physician at Children's Hospital of Michigan for many years, died recently after a prolonged illness.

:An excellent teacher of medical students and residents, Ralph brought his years of experience as a practicing pediatrician to the bedside and was recognized as Teacher of the Year. His "Cash's Corner" practice management seminars, which he taught with his wife, Barbara ("Bobbie"), were very popular with residents.

A gifted writer, Ralph wrote a medical advice column in the Detroit Free Press for several years. He also served as the chief of Pediatrics for many years at Sinai Hospital, in Detroit .

Ralph moved his private practice from Farmington Hills to the CHM Couzen's Building in the late 1970s. This practice, Medical Center Pediatrics, P.C. has grown to a large and successful pediatric practice.

"Ralph was a mentor and my friend, and we will miss him," wrote CHM President Herman Gray in a letter today. "Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers are extended to Bobbie and children Sandy, Howard, and Debbie."

Services will be held at 10:15 a.m., tomorrow, Oct. 27, at the Dorfman Funeral Chapel, 30440 W. 12 Mile Road , Farmington Hills, Mich. The Dorfman Chapel phone number is (248) 406-6000.