Gastroenterologist, Dr. Charles Ulrich, Bids Farewell After 31 Years in Medicine

Dr. Ulrich's career included 17 years in Willmar, where professional passion and community ties made the perfect match.

After 31 dedicated years in Gastroenterology, including 17 years serving patients in the Willmar region, Dr. Charles Ulrich retires at the end of August 2024.

Dr. Ulrich's journey began with undergraduate studies in chemistry at Baylor University in Waco, TX, followed by a master's in physical chemistry from the University of Houston. He earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, furthered his education with a residency in Internal Medicine at that same institution, and completed a fellowship in Gastroenterology at Mayo Graduate School of Medicine in Rochester, Minnesota, including an NIH Gastroenterology Research fellowship.

"I really liked Internal Medicine and I liked doing procedures," said Dr. Ulrich. "I wanted to work in a field with a broad scope — where there is not a finite amount to be learned. GI is such a broad field. I found it to be a perfect fit for me." He also credited inspiring mentors during his residency for helping shape his career path.

Throughout his career Dr. Ulrich served in many administrative roles including faculty as an Associate Professor of Medicine and Pathobiology at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine in Cincinnati, Ohio from 1994-2003. There he conducted NIH funded research into pancreatic cancer and hereditary pancreatitis, and helped to build a multidisciplinary pancreatic disease center which is still in operation today.

The years 2004-2007 were especially busy as he took on multiple leadership roles including Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Director of University Hospital Gastroenterology and Pancreatology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

Finding His Way Back Home

In a twist of fate, during this busy period, a recruitment postcard for a GI position in Willmar, Minnesota—his hometown—found its way to his desk.

"I held on to that postcard for six months before picking up the phone and requesting an interview that next week," said Dr. Ulrich. "It was mid-January, and the temperature was -20 degrees when I came out for an interview. I brought my wife and kids with for the second visit, and together we made the decision to move from Texas to Minnesota."

His decision to return to Willmar was influenced by more than just career prospects. "I was missing precious time with my family due to long hours at work," he recalled.

Being closer to his aging parents and achieving a better work-life balance tipped the scales in favor of accepting the position in Willmar.

"Moving here has been a wonderful choice for our family," Dr. Ulrich reflected. "I now live on the lake where I grew up fishing with my father. My youngest son was confirmed by Reverend Dean Johnson at the same church where I was confirmed by him many years ago.

Additionally, both of my sons achieved Eagle Scout rank in Boy Scout Troop 224, a tradition carried on from my own upbringing alongside my brother."

Dr. Ulrich's return to Minnesota, driven by professional passion and personal values, is a testament to a fulfilling career that has touched many lives.

The Future Looks Bright

When asked about his retirement plans, Dr. Ulrich shared, "My youngest son is getting married, and we're excited about the wedding. I also have a fishing trip to Canada lined up with my brother-in-law and nephew. I'm eager to finally learn how to fish properly—so far, I'm just a recreational fisherman. And I plan to spend some time on the golf course."

Dr. Ulrich and his wife, Holly, a board-certified pharmacist, have enjoyed 43 wonderful years of marriage.

"I couldn't have accomplished any of this without her," Dr. Ulrich shared. "Willmar has been a fantastic place for our family, and we look forward to creating many more memories here."