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DEBORAH ASNIS Obituary
59, passed away at 11:30am, September 12, 2015 in the presence of her loved ones. Dr. Asnis was Director of Infectious Disease at Flushing Hospital Medical Center and discovered the first US outbreak of West Nile Virus in 1999. Thanks to her quick action, public officials took aggressive precautions against the spread of the virus. On December 8, 2007, she was inducted into the New York City Hall of Fame for Health and Science. Dr. Asnis was also an HIV specialist and prolific clinical researcher, publishing over 35 articles in her career. She was beloved by her residents, nursing staff, and patients. At home, Debbie was devoted to her family. She loved traveling the world with her husband, going to the theater with her children, and being with her mother. She played tennis and piano, delighted in art and culture. Her smile always lit the room. She was committed to education, self-improvement, and the happiness of her loved ones. Debbie's intelligence was matched with beauty, quick wit, and exquisite fashion sense. She was as kind and concerned for the health of others as she was strong and driven in her own life. She leaves behind a loving husband, Dr. Hal Kazdin, sons Joshua and Matthew, brother Dr. Greg Asnis, and mother Ruth. The world is a poorer place without her. Donations may be made in Debbie's memory to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (www.bcrfcure.org).
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Memories and Condolences
for DEBORAH ASNIS
Jose A. Giron MD FACP
September 10, 2025
Deborah was a superb clinician and an exceptional individual.
It was an honor to work with her
Jose A Giron MD FACP
September 9, 2024
Deborah was a superb clinician and a wonderful person.
She left a deep impression in those she met.
It was a privilege to work with her at Flushing Hospital
Jose A. Giron MD FACP
Jose A. Giron MD FACP
September 11, 2023
Deborah was a superb clinician and a dignified and worthy colleague .It was an honor to have worked with her at Flushing Hospital Medical Center.
Jose Giron
September 9, 2020
Remembering those who have left an impression on us is a mitzvah. Deborah Asnis left an impression on all who met her. She dedicated herself to her career with great insight and dignity. It was an honor to have worked with her. She will live n the memory of anyone who ever met her. She made the world around her a better place.
Jose A. Giron MD FACP
Brian Cushin
September 9, 2019
Still can't believe Dr Asnis is gone. So full of life - gone way too soon. My continued condolences to her family.
Brian Cushin
October 14, 2015
I was looking for an Infectious Disease Specialist so I thought I'd go to the best - Debbie Asnis - I haven't seen Dr Asnis since 1994 - went to google and much to my dismay found her obituary. I cannot tell you how sad I am. Debbie Asnis was brillant and one of the most thorough doctors I've ever worked with. The ID world has lost a giant. My sincerest condolences to her family.
Janie Polak Lazar
October 10, 2015
Debbie- the light of your life will forever shine brightly on all the many lives you touched. Rest in peace my dear old RHS friend
Jane Polak Lazar
October 10, 2015
Debbie- The light of your life will shine brightly on those who's lives you touched. Rest in peace my old RHS friend
Lanie Goldberg
October 6, 2015
Dear Hal,
Sending prayers and warm thoughts to you and your family! So sad, and deepest condolences,
Love, Lanie
Rita Furtaw
September 26, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss.
September 23, 2015
Our deepest condolences to Dr. Kazdin and their family. Darlene & Jozette Belmont
Harley Lippman
September 22, 2015
I knew Debbie when we were both in high school back in 1970 . She was my first girlfriend .... and I knew then what an extraordinary person she was back then . It was her contagious unique laugh .... and above all her kindness ..... I experienced her kindness and was amazed at her level of empathy for others .... . I knew she would accomplish things but I had no idea how much she accomplished ... While we lost contact many years ago ... I remember her Morher and Farher well .... The apple didn't fall far from the tree ... After all these years I am surprised how affected I am when I heard of her passing .... how young .. so sad ... how unfair life can be .... I am forever grateful to have had Debbie in my life ... when I was so vulnerable as an awkward teenager ... she always encouraged and believed in me ... at 15 years old ... rhe world has lost someone who is irreplaceable ..
Debra Brennessel MD
September 20, 2015
I am saddened by the loss of Debbie Asnis. She was my trainee, colleague and friend. With her reputation as a superb physician and diagnostician, she influenced many students and residents. Her commitment and love for her family were palpable. She will be sorely missed. My condolences to Hal, Josh and Matthew,
Joan Kornblum/Ashe
September 18, 2015
My deepest condolences to all of Debby's close family. My love to you all. May she rest in peace.
Barbara Santonas
September 18, 2015
To Dr. K and family-Michael, David, Scott and I are deeply saddened by the news of your wife's passing. May she rest in peace. Barbara Santonas
Desiree Garib
September 17, 2015
Rest in peace Dr Asnis
Stephanie Rosen
September 16, 2015
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Deborah was an extraordinary woman whom I will always remember and admire.
Sincere condolences
Rae Dellino
September 16, 2015
Extending deep and heartfelt sympathy at this time. Deborah was a wonderful individual and a great physician. I had the honor of working with her at Flushing Hospital. A true loss to the medical community and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
april Furtaw
September 16, 2015
Dear Dr. Kazdin:
We are sorry for your loss we all know how much you loved your wife and what a wonderful woman and doctor she was. God Bless you a. f. and the Budneys
September 16, 2015
May the love and support of family and friends, along with prayers comfort you at this time of pain and sorrow
Melanie
September 15, 2015
I am sorry for your loss. May you all continue to pour out your heart to God in prayer knowing that he is a refuge or a secure place for you all. Psalm 62:8
September 15, 2015
I was greatly saddened by the passing of Dr. Deborah Asnis, who was my colleague at Flushing Hospital for many years. She was an individual with a rare sense of grace and integrity and a very fine physician. It was an honor to have known her and work with her. My deepest condolences to her family.
Jose A Giron MD FACP
t t
September 15, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss, may the God who " Binds up the broken hearts " and " comforts all who mourns " sustain you during this difficult time ( Isaiah 61 : 2 ).
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