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John Marlow Obituary
Over a career that spanned more than 50 years, Dr. Marlow became one of the most influential voices in his field. His pioneering work included the early use of minimally invasive laparoscopy in gynecology (belly button surgery). Frequently called upon for his expertise, Dr. Marlow lectured at medical conferences and symposia across the United States and in countries around the world. In 1981, he was nominated for a national Emmy in outstanding individual achievement/creative technical arts for his work with "The Body Human: The Bionic Break-Through". (CBS) He was President of multiple organizations including the American Assn. of Gynecologic Laparoscopists.
Born in Idaho in 1935, Dr. Marlow received his BS in Zoology at BYU in 1957 and his medical degree from George Washington University in 1961. He spent the majority of his career at Columbia Hospital for Women in Washington, DC where he served as Director, Continuing Medical Education and Chief of Staff. He also held academic roles at George Washington Univ and Georgetown Univ. He was also affiliated with continuing medical education at Sibley Hospital before his retirement in 2016.
In his early years, he served as a captain in the US Air Force at Andrews Air Force Base and was chief of gynecologic oncology and responsible for the care of referral cancer patients from all east coast Air Force bases. He received the Air Force commendation medal for the work he did while stationed there.
In addition to his medical expertise, Dr. Marlow was a talented opera singer and performed at Constitution Hall. He also sang with Roberta Flack at Mr. Henry's in Georgetown and was quite an artist; a renaissance man in every sense of the word.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Cathy Marlow, his sons John and Jeffrey, three grandchildren and many relatives out west. Countless colleagues and patients admired him for his dedication, insight and compassion.
A memorial service will be held in the near future. Please visit johnmarlowmd.com for more information.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Marlow
3 Entries
Jacqueline Gerachis
August 9, 2025
Dr. Marlow was an expert in his field and, of course, as his patient that was wonderfully reassuring. But he also was simply the best at making you feel he was just delighted to be in your company! His reassuring presence on this earth will be dearly missed although I will always be glad to have had the pleasure of his presence.
Annette R Hanopole
August 5, 2025
Dr Marlow came to my assistance when, in 1977, he performed an emergency hysterectomy on a 27 year old. He was kind, he was professional and he knew I was in trouble. I don´t think I would be here today without his skills as a surgeon.
Nancy Lee Davis
August 2, 2025
So sorry to learn about the death our neighbor and my fellow artist. Such a sweet and humble man! Always enjoyed our talks as he painted away on his porch. He will always be remembered with love and admiration.
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