Deputy state medical examiner speaks to LHS

Gene Reckin, a science instructor at Libby High School, invited Dr. Walter Kemp, (known as Willy) to speak to his students about his work at the state crime lab in Missoula. Kemp is the deputy state medical examiner and Reckin introduced him as, "the real-deal CSI."

"Dr. Kemp has reached a level of expertise that few people in his field ever do," Reckin told his high school students.

Kemp has just completed a textbook on pathology. "The Big Picture - Pathology" by Dr. Walter L. Kemp, Dennis K. Burns, and Travis G. Brown is the new standard in medical schools around the country.

Willy Kemp, grew up in Libby and graduated from Libby High in 1989. His mother, Agnes Kemp, thinks he's a real deal too. Agnes said, "He was a wonderful boy who always had a lot of curiosity. He filled our house with rocks, bugs, salamanders and other creatures during his growing up years. His father and I learned along with him."

Kemp's mother went on to say, "Willy always had a positive attitude and he believed when one door closed another one would open. He had not planned on a medical career, but when his efforts to obtain a fullride scholarship led him to Carroll College in Helena, which has a strong pre-med program, he decided to take advantage of what he saw as another door opening."

Kemp went on to Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, Neb. and received his Doctor of Medicine degree in 1997.

Kemp — Willy only goes by doctor when he is in court — explained to Reckin's students that medical school is the general basics. Then specialties are chosen. He had a friend who wanted him to take an autopsy class. At first he told her no way, but then he agreed to observe a class. Kemp said he discovered a world of wonder and knew that was what he wanted to do.

Because Reckin's classes are studying ambient air issues, Kemp spoke about lung pathology. He defined obstructive and restrictive lung diseases and showed microscopic slides and photos of autopsied organs.

Kemp told the kids, "Don't look for money, prestige or location when you go out to find your place in the world. Find your passion, whatever it may be. I never get tired of what I am doing. I never dread the next day's work."

Reckin said that every so often, a student comes into his class with that special "spark" in his eye.

"Willy had that spark from day one," Reckin said.

Kemp said he was fortunate to have been in Reckin's class where sparks are allowed.