Dr. Frederick M. Kapetansky

Frederick Maurice Kapetansky MD, long-time resident of Columbus Ohio, passed away on
October 11, 2024, at the age of 91.
Dr. Kapetansky, a pioneer in the field of glaucoma, was a tireless and innovative researcher,
prolific author and teacher/lecturer, compassionate mentor and practitioner spanning four
generations of grateful patients. His career balanced both academic distinction (60 years as
faculty at The Ohio State University's Department of Ophthalmology) and clinical excellence
(65 years active practice).
Fred was born in Detroit in 1933, youngest of three brothers, to an immigrant family. An alum
of University of Michigan School of Medicine, he was an avid reader, outdoorsman, gardener,
and devoted husband and father. Described by family, colleagues, and friends as fervently
patriotic, perennially humble, insatiably curious, unfailingly optimistic (with his ever-present
twinkle, he remained convinced that the Detroit Tigers would win the World Series). Fred also
devoted time and energy in support of our country, community (both religious and civic), and
quality education.
Preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Audrey; parents, Nathan and Fay Kapetansky; and
brothers, Donald Kapetansky and Larry Kapetansky; grandson, Darryl Baker. He is survived
by his children, David Kapetansky, Karen Davis, Glenn (Esther) Kapetansky, Lisa Nagar, and
Dr. Steven Kapetansky; grandchildren, Brian, Alyssa (Jason), Jason, Dena (David), Netanya
(Shimon), Ezra (Ariella), Natan, and Sarah; great-grandchildren, Emma, Zachary, Livana,
Jacob, Judah, Noa, Nadav, Elan, Shiloh, Noa, and Shmuel.
Contributions in Fred's memory may be made to Congregation Beth Jacob
(http:// www.bjcolumbus.org ) The Ohio State University Department of Ophthalmology -
Kapetansky Career Development Faculty Support Fund
( https://medicine.osu.edu/departments/ophthalmology/giving/buckeye-
endowments/kapetansky ) or Dr. Frederick M. and Audrey Kapetansky Fellowship Endowment
at Hillsdale College ( https://hillsdale.edu/hillsdale/support-hillsdale-college ).
Shiva will be observed at the Kapetansky residence through Wednesday morning. Shachris will be held at 7am and Mincha/Maariv at 6:35pm. Shiva hours are 7am- 11am, 2pm-4pm and 5pm-8pm.