Alex Gingell writes:
Adieu to a genial gentleman. Cikk to his friends, Dott to his subordinates, Francis Talbot Pullicino's simplicity, humility, honesty, generosity and goodness were the outstanding traits of his character.
Dr Pullicino was the fifth child of a large family of 11. He was a founder scholar at the newly-established boarding school at Cottonera - St Edward's College. Departing from the family tradition of taking law at the University, he graduated as doctor of medicine in 1943. Within a few months he was commissioned in the RAMC, serving locally at Mtarfa as anaesthetist. In 1945, he was posted overseas in Italy.
On returning to Malta in 1949, Dr Pullicino was appointed resident clinical officer at St Luke's Hospital. In 1953, he was promoted with the appointment as the first blood transfusion officer and held the post till 1977. In 1964, Dr Pullicino was elected member of the Royal College of Pathologists and two years later promoted to Fellow of the College.
Furthermore, he showed skills in photography and cinematography. He was a member of the Malta Cine Circle and submitted short films for the annual contest. Later, he showed artistic skills in tapestry and carpet making.
Dr Pullicino will forever be associated with Clinipath services. In 1961, he co-founded a private clinical laboratory service at the Blue Sisters Hospital where it remained operational till 1977 when they moved to the present premises in Pietà. By 1979 he was steering the laboratory almost single-handedly and in hardship but his consistency in character never wavered, even though he was offered to be reinstated at St Luke's Hospital. And here started my association with Dr Pullicino.
In 1980, Dr Pullicino secured my employment on full-time basis and since then our relationship flourished in the most amiable way. In 1982, he unselfishly offered me a partnership with him at Clinipath which I unhesitatingly accepted. In 1993, together as shareholders, we established Clinipath Services Ltd. Dr Pullicino since then retained life chairmanship of the company.
Indeed, I did have a fantastic relationship with him. He was like a second father to me. He was a trusted friend, a trustworthy gentleman and an exemplary Christian. This is how I wish to remember Dr Pullicino.
Dr Pullicino's passing away to a better life leaves his much-loved daughters and granddaughters, their extended families and friends with an immense sense of loss and, yet, with many wonderful memories.
May he rest in peace.