It’s with sadness we share that Francis Robicsek, M.D., PhD, 94, passed away peacefully at his home on April 3, surrounded by his wife, Lilly and family. Dr. Robicsek’s lifelong commitment to Atrium Health, Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute and our community are a testament to the impact he had on the world around him.
In 2017, Dr. Robicsek was 92 years old and the longest serving employee of Carolinas HealthCare – now Atrium Health. A group of generous colleagues, patients, and friends came together to recognize Dr. Robicsek in a special way, establishing an endowed chair in his honor. Their remarkable contributions helped establish The Francis Robicsek, MD, PhD Endowed Chair in Cardiovascular Surgery at Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute.
He will be remembered for his innovations that helped shape healthcare in Charlotte, his dedication to Atrium Health’s International Medical Outreach Program, his passion for helping the underserved, and so much more.
A humanitarian, global leader, and one of the foremost cardiovascular surgeons in the world, Dr. Robicsek was legendary. He will be greatly missed.
A celebration of his incredible life and the amazing legacy he has left will be scheduled at a later date. While we grieve with his family and friends, let’s also remember the fun and amazing stories about a man we all loved so much. If you have a memory, please consider sharing it here so the Robicsek family can read these stories from his Atrium Health family.