John Marius Opitz

My daughter has Smith Lemli Opitz. She was born in 1987. I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Opitz at our conference in 1997. He was so gracious with meeting some of us. He will always have a special place in our hearts. Julie is now 36 years old and doing well.

I just came across this brief but lovely tribute to John whom I knew for many years. A true polymath and an unforgettable man. I remember his choosing to sit in the back of my VW Beetle and demonstrating how neatly he could fold his tall frame into a small space. Fred/Ted Hecht Frederick Hecht, MD

I had the distinct privilege of associating with Dr. John Opitz for the last 15 years in the University of Utah Department of Pediatrics. I have felt honored to know this legend of a man, known for his brilliance and kindness. He has left his mark on the world in magnificent ways. I will miss him greatly.

My sincere condolences on the passing of Dr. Opitz. Through his research he gave my son a voice..a reason and answered many questions after so many years of not knowing. We are part of the BOS community. Thank you and be at peace.

I never knew this man but he has had a major impact on my family's life and we are forever grateful for all that he's given our world. You see our daughter was diagnosed with Borhing Optiz syndrome in 2018 and simply having a name for what was wrong with my child was worth more than most will ever know. Our family is not alone either, because of the dedicated work of this man our family is part of a community of fabulous families connected by one syndrome. Thank you for all you've given! My...

Dear Susan, I am saddened to read of John's passing My condolences to you and the family.

B

Prof. John Opitz was my mentor and guide supporting from the beginning my strong genetic orientation of fetal pathology. He even visited us at Necker hospital in Paris, France. He most kindly accepted to preface and edit our recent Manual of Fetal Pathology. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Always yours John, Dr Jelena Martinovic

I met Dr. John Opitz a few times, when he would come to Tampa to visit with Dr. Enid Gilbert Barness, another legend with whom I have shared many cases in consultation, research projects and publications. John had a brilliant, incisive mind, a trait shared with Enid who I respected so much. May John´s legacy and beautiful soul live on in all of our memories.