Obituary of Eugene Bozymski

Dr. Eugene Michael Bozymski, beloved husband, father, grandfather and gastroenterologist passed away peacefully at home on February 15, 2024.  He was the youngest of six children born in 1935 to Clementine and Alexander Bozymski in Mansfield, Ohio. He is survived by the love of his life for over 70 years, Mary Kay. 

Gene graduated from John Carroll University and Marquette School of Medicine in a remarkable six years. Gene trained at Scripps Mercy in San Diego and returned to the Medical College of Wisconsin for his three year residency as he began his over 50 year career as a gastroenterologist. A two year stint in the US Army was followed by his final posting at Marquette. A fellowship at UNC School of Medicine helped to prepare him to serve as Professor of Medicine and Head of Endoscopy at Carolina for many years.

Dr. Bo held esteemed positions within various medical societies. His commitment to excellence in patient care and dedication to nurturing future generations of gastroenterologists were evident in his leadership roles and mentorship of GI fellows. He served as Governor of North Carolina for the American College of Gastroenterology on two occasions and attained the status of Master with both the American College of Gastroenterology and the American College of Physicians. He was also recognized as a Fellow of the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and the American Gastrointestinal Association.

In 2007, the Mary Kay and Eugene Bozymski and Linda and William Heizer Distinguished Professorship at the University of North Carolina Medical School honored his legacy. A loyal Tar Heel, he cherished Carolina Athletics and was an avid fan of Marquette basketball and Notre Dame football. Gene loved sports specifically tennis, football and fishing and was a member of the Chapel Hill Choir for over 30 years. He especially enjoyed the beach with his grandchildren.

Medicine was his vocation, but faith and family were his lifeblood. Family was his greatest joy. Gene Bozymski is survived by his wife Mary Kay and four sons; Mike (Cathy), Mark (Mary), David (Nata), and Eric. He was affectionately known as “Pop Pop” by his ten grandchildren; Mary Catherine Maus (Michael), Evan (Sunny), Blake, Isabel, Sophie, Max (Caroline), Alexandra Bressoud (Hayden), Emma, Sarah and Abigail and great granddaughter, Charlotte Maus. Survivors also include his brother Eddie (Kris) and sister Jenny. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Lee and two brothers Tony and Val. 

A service to celebrate Gene Bozymski will be held at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Chapel Hill on Friday, March 22 at 2:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting the Mary Kay and Eugene Bozymski Professorship Fund at UNC Health Foundation. www.unchf.org/bozymski