R. DAVID SUDARSKY

SUDARSKY--R. David, of North Ocean Blvd., Ft Lauderdale died last evening at the age of 88. He grew up in Hartford on Canterbury St., the youngest son of Charles and Dora Sudarsky. His parents recognized his unique scholastic ability and sent him to Loomis School and then to Yale. He served in the Navy during the Korean War. He had an accomplished career. After graduating Yale Medical School, he did his eye residency in Boston at the Mass Eye and Ear Infirmary, followed by a retina fellowship with Charles Schepens. He brought innovations in retinal surgery to New York when he joined the staff at the Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital. He served as chief of staff, and was president of both the New York and Manhattan Eye Societies. Numerous publications and medical device patents bear his name. A generation of ophthalmic surgeons cherished him as a mentor. His interests were broad and encompassed contemporary art, American crafts, clock tinkering, music, and optical instruments. He had a love of furniture and was a dictionary maven. Talented, kind, and generous, David drew people to him in every circle. A devoted patron of the arts, he was a regular at the Metropolitan Opera, the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Museum, MOMA (where he enjoyed a 73 year membership) as well as other museums near his New York office. He was well known about the city where he practiced more than 40 years prior to his retirement. He is survived by his lifelong partner, Frank Tosto, with whom he shared his love of travel and the arts. He is also survived by his adoring nieces and nephews: Lewis Sudarsky, John Rudy, and Betty Sudarsky of Boston, MA, Deborah Sudarsky of Brooklyn, NY, Peter Wortman of Glastonbury, CT, and Rachel Wortman of Campobello, SC and Charles Sternberg of Somers, NY. He was a treasured uncle. Devoted to his family, David was the youngest of four siblings. Miriam Rudy and Joseph Sudarsky are recently deceased. In an unexpected turn of fate, he died hours after his sole surviving sister, Ruth Wortman of Manchester, CT. There will be a graveside service at the Emanuel Cemetery, Wethersfield, CT Thursday, April 3rd, 2:30pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Eye Bank of New York.