Robert John Mulcare M.D.

Robert John Mulcare, MD
April 8, 1935 to April 6, 2023
Robert John Mulcare, son of Frank James Mulcare and Mary Catherine (Kiernan) Mulcare, was born in New York, NY and grew up in Garden City, NY. He graduated from Princeton University in 1957 and Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1961. After residency in general surgery at Columbia, he became a Captain in the US Army, and deployed as a surgeon to Thailand to support the US troops and civilians in the area. Upon completion of his service, he trained in vascular surgery in Houston among the most prolific surgeons in modern medicine. Returning to Manhattan, he spent time at Memorial Sloan Kettering before settling at Roosevelt Hospital, where he remained for the duration of his surgical career. Bob was a dedicated faculty member at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and for the surgical residency at Roosevelt. He built a private practice on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, where he had a loyal patient following and staff for 35 years. He was also on the consulting staff at Greenwich Hospital. After retiring from active practice, Bob spent ten years consulting for a wholly doctor-owned insurance company, defending malpractice suits. He then retired at age 82 to take up a new hobby of creating whimsical fairy house replicas to maintain his dexterity.
Bob met his wife, Betsy, in 1977 on a blind date. Married in 1978, they enjoyed a wonderful 44 years of marriage. They lived in Greenwich for the duration and spent significant time both in Boca Grande, FL and traveling. He was a member of The Belle Haven Club, The Boca Grande Club, and The Nassau Club in Princeton.
In addition to medicine, Bob was known for both his love of art and his musical ability as a jazz pianist. He led his first band, The Dukes of Rhythm, in high school. He was the Musical Director for The Princeton Triangle Club, which included an appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show. His final public performance was for the Green Fingers Garden Club 75th Anniversary Gala.
Bob led by example and was known for his kind and thoughtful demeanor laced with amusing observations. He is survived by his wife, Betsy, their two children and spouses (Mary and Dave Paretti, Bobby and Lori Mulcare) and five grandchildren (Katie and Claire Paretti, Andrew, Julie and Teddy Mulcare). He was a wonderful son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend and touched the lives of all who knew him.
Bob maintained his decision-making process until the end. He slipped away with his family supporting him at the bedside in Greenwich Hospital. Bob always preferred an Irish exit; this time was no different. He will be deeply missed. Raise a glass.