Dr. Anthony Okechukwu Sven Udekwu

Dr. Anthony Okechukwu Sven Udekwu, beloved brother, father, grandfather, and uncle, peacefully passed away in California on April 22, 2024, supported by the love and prayers of his adoring family. Anthony was a man of remarkable intellect, incredible work ethic, unwavering dedication, and boundless compassion.

Born on October 16, 1956, in Chicago, Illinois, to a Nigerian father and Swedish mother, Anthony's upbringing was enriched by a diverse cultural heritage and his parents' instillment of the staunch ethos to deploy one's God-given talents in service of humanity.

During his formative years in Sweden, amidst the turmoil of the Nigerian Civil War, he forged deep connections with his beloved grandparents, Sven and Hildegard, mastering the Swedish language and developing a passion for skiing and other pursuits.

Anthony's journey in medicine began early, inspired by his father, the esteemed cardiac surgeon, Professor Fabian Anene Osita Udekwu. Guided by his father's footsteps and the unwavering support of his mother, Anna-Brita, Anthony's intellectual curiosity and passion for healing led him to pursue a distinguished career in surgery.

After graduating top of the class with distinction in Anatomy and Surgery from the University of Nigeria Medical School, Anthony embarked on a surgical residency at the University of Chicago, where he distinguished himself with excellence. Throughout his celebrated career, he served patients and mentored generations of medical residents at prestigious teaching hospitals, including the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, the University Hospital at Case Western Reserve, and Creighton University, specializing in trauma care and later pioneering advancements in bariatric surgery.

Anthony's patients revered him for his caring demeanor, compassionate bedside manner, and steadfast commitment to their well-being. He will be remembered fondly by all whose lives he touched, whether they were under his care, beside him in the operating room, or fellowshipping with him in his community.

Beyond his professional achievements, Anthony's life was defined by his profound love for his family. He cherished his three children, Shirley Uchenna Emehelu, Michael Udekwu, and Lily Udekwu, and took immense pride in their accomplishments. The oldest of ten children, Anthony's enduring legacy extends to his siblings, numerous nieces and nephews, and three adoring grandchildren.

In his leisure, Anthony found joy in culinary pursuits, delighting his loved ones with his culinary expertise, from hearty lasagnas to the cherished weekend tradition of making Swedish pancakes. He was a voracious reader and had a seemingly boundless reservoir of literary and historical references. His eclectic taste and impeccable style were evident from his teenage years in Nigeria, where his bell-bottoms, silky shirts, platform shoes, and musical talents as part of med school band Sensations, endeared him to many. In adulthood, when he was not wearing surgical scrubs, his handsome features and athletic stature were highlighted by his penchant for impeccably tailored suits.

As we bid farewell to our beloved Anthony, we find solace in the knowledge that his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace, embraced by the loving arms of our Lord.

Funeral mass will be held at 11am on Friday, June 14, 2024 at St. Benedict the Moor Parish, 91 Crawford Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, followed by internment at Greenwood Cemetery, 321 Kittanning Pike, Pittsburgh, PA 15215, and a celebration of life reception for family and close friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Department of Surgery Training Program in memory of Anthony O. Udekwu, MD.

Please make check payable to "University of Pittsburgh" and please send to:



University of Pittsburgh

107 Park Plaza,

128 North Craig Street

Pittsburgh, PA 15260

Or call Toll Free: 800-817-8943

Visit Anthony's memorial website, at https://everloved.com/life-of/anthony-udekwu/, to learn more about his life and funeral arrangements.