JARS v63n1 - In Memoriam: William Mark Zurich, Jr.

In Memoriam: William Mark Zurich, Jr.
Karel Bernady

Dr. William Mark Zurich Jr., M.D., age 60, of Toms River, N.J., died Sunday, Nov. 23, 2008, at his home. Born in 1948 in Newark, Dr. Zurich lived in New York City before moving to Toms River in 1981. Dr. Zurich was a solo practitioner of Urologic Surgery in Toms River from 1981 until most recently. He was a staff member at Community Medical Center, Toms River, since 1981 and twice served as Chief of Urology. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in biology from Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison, in 1970 and received his medical degree in 1974. Dr. Zurich did an internship at Overlook Hospital, Summit. He completed his residency at St. Luke's Hospital, New York in 1976 and was Chief Resident from 1980-1981. He became board certified in urology in 1983.

His great loves were his family, his garden and great food and wine. He had tremendous pride in his four children and dedicated his life to educating and guiding them. He was happiest when everyone was home for the holidays. He was a devoted son to his parents, Joan and Bill Zurich, Sr., and loved them dearly. He loved his garden and could so often be found strolling among his rhododendrons with a glass of cabernet sauvignon and his dog by his side. His quick wit and straight talk sometimes hid his heart of gold. He was a truly compassionate physician and brought comfort and hope to his patients with his always-positive outlook. He loved traveling the world with his wife, Ginny, seeking places with local color. He had an inquisitive mind and was always eager to learn something new. Through his dedication to his family, his kind manner with his patients and his renowned garden, Dr. Zurich brought beauty to the world in extraordinary ways. He lived every day with passion and vigor, honor and strength, principal and love.