It is with deep sorrow we share the passing of a revered figure in the medical community, Eugene Bozymski, MD. A luminary in the field of gastroenterology, Dr. Bozymski’s recent passing leaves an indelible mark on the University of North Carolina, where he served as Professor of Medicine and Head of Endoscopy for many years.
Dr. Bozymski’s illustrious career began with a rotating internship at Scripps/Mercy Hospital in San Diego, followed by a three-year medical residency at Marquette U. School of Medicine/Medical College of Wisconsin, with a two-year interruption for service in the US Army. His fellowship brought him to UNC where he trained in esophageal diseases, and directly following, joined our faculty.
Dr. Bozymski’s expertise in disorders of esophageal diseases and therapeutic endoscopy is widely acknowledged. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Endoscopy Center and the Motility Center at UNC and assisted Duke University in establishing their unit. His commitment to excellence in patient care and dedication to nurturing future generations of gastroenterologists were evident in his leadership roles and mentorship of GI fellows – for years, many of the endoscopists in North Carolina had trained under Dr. Bozymski or visited UNC to learn new skills from him. His formal lectures set a standard for clarity and exposition, reflecting the depth of his knowledge and passion for education.
Beyond national borders, Dr. Bozymski’s impact reached international shores. He dedicated time in Germany to enhance endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography skills, facilitated the establishment of the Endoscopy Unit at the University of Alexandria in Egypt, and served as an advisor to Saratov State Medical University in Russia.
A sought-after speaker at national and international meetings, Dr. Bozymski held esteemed positions within various medical societies. He served as Governor of North Carolina for the American College of Gastroenterology on two occasions, attained status of Master with both the American College of Gastroenterology and the American College of Physicians. He was also recognized as a Fellow of the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and the American Gastrointestinal Association.
Dr. Bozymski received numerous awards, including the Distinguished Clinician Award of the American Gastroenterological Association and the Master of Endoscopy Award by the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. In 2007, the Eugene M. and Mary Kay Bozymski and William and Linda Heizer Distinguished Professorship at the University of North Carolina Medical Center was established in his honor.
Dr. Eugene Bozymski’s impact on medicine, education, and patient care is immeasurable, and his absence leaves a void that cannot be easily filled. As we remember and honor his remarkable life, let us reflect on the invaluable legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of compassion, dedication, and excellence that will inspire generations to come.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to UNC Health Foundation in support of the Mary Kay & Eugene Bozymski Professorship Fund. Contributions can be made online at www.unchf.org/bozymski