Starr’s scholarly heft and humility

Re “His love of California knew no boundaries,” Jan. 17

I was deeply saddened to read about the death of California historian Kevin Starr.

I had the serendipitous pleasure of meeting him almost twenty years ago when I was a young physician working in the trenches of an urban hospital. Like reporter Peter H. King, I also sought Starr’s opinion regarding a possible career change. He spoke to me at length about my secondary interests in history, literature and Catholicism and encouraged my continued studies, both professional and amateur.

Although I knew I was in the presence of a great intellectual, he radiated only humility and a deep sincerity, even while guiding a fledgling along. For this act of kindness on his part, I will always be grateful. Belen Gallarza-Wilson

Orange