Raymond Nicholas Doetsch

Raymond Nicholas Doetsch (Rockville, MD) passed away on December 29, 2017. A native of Chicago, Ill., he was educated at the University of Illinois (B.S.), Indiana University (M.S.), and the University of Maryland (Ph.D.). He served as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Coast Artillery during World War 2. A microbiologist by training, he served on the faculty of the University of Maryland (College Park) from 1948-85, retiring as Professor Emeritus. He trained dozens of graduate students, conducted research on many species of bacteria, and authored over 100 research articles and books ranging from microbial physiology to the history of medicine. He received a number of awards and distinctions for his research and teaching including the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2012 from the University of Maryland. He was an avid supporter of the arts, a classical music enthusiast and was a successful competitive chess player during his retirement years. A humble man, he was beloved by his family and friends and found great joy in his activities with them. He was predeceased by his daughter Jennie Burgess, his wife Janet Doetsch and his sister Elinor King. He is survived by his daughter Karen Robison, son Paul Doetsch, son-in-law Edwin Robison, daughter-in-law Donna Doetsch and four grandsons, Christopher Robison, Nicholas Robison, Gregory Robison, and Andrew Doetsch. Memorial contributions can be made to the University of Maryland Fund for Excellence in the name of Raymond N. Doetsch.