SEPTEMBER 19 • 2024 | 55
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r. Arnold Markowitz, 
prominent Detroit-area 
infectious disease and 
internal medicine physician, passed 
away suddenly on Sept. 5, 2024, at 
the age of 79. His passion for his 
profession, his conscientiousness 
and his genius inspired generations 
of physicians and saved tens 
of thousands of lives. His 
distinguished career spanned five 
decades.
Dr. Markowitz attended Wayne 
State University Medical School, 
interned at Detroit Sinai, spent 
his residency at Barnes and had a 
fellowship at Hutzel Hospital. He 
most recently chaired the infection 
control committee for the Trinity 
Health/St. Joseph system.
He became a physician 
because he loved medicine, not 
for the money or prestige. Dr. 

Markowitz was a pioneer in the 
treatment of AIDS/HIV. He cared 
for underinsured patients who 
survived those deadly diseases and 
went on to live long and healthy 
lives, despite a lack of 
known treatments at 
the time. He solved a 
world-record botulism 
outbreak as well as 
regional occurrences of 
serratia and St. Louis 
encephalitis. Patients 
traveled from all 50 
states and even Europe 
to benefit from his 
outstanding diagnostic 
skills.
Those who knew him would 
confirm that he was undoubtedly 
one of the happiest individuals 
they ever encountered. His joy in 
learning never diminished. He 

dedicated several hours daily to 
reading; it was important to him 
to remain current in science and 
medicine. 
His contentment hailed from his 
wife’s cooking, swimming 
in his pool, listening to 
classical music, golfing and 
riding his bike. He pon-
dered the questions of the 
universe, took joy in small 
things and lived a life that 
exemplified tikkun olam.
Dr. Markowitz coura-
geously stood up against 
administrative policies 
that hurt patients, and he 
fought for transparency on behalf 
of staff and patients regarding 
infectious issues.
He routinely expressed his 
wonder and gratitude about being 
a physician; he considered it a 

great privilege. He was only slightly 
arrogant for a doctor; mostly, he 
was humble, brilliant and caring. 
He uplifted everyone he touched. 
His example of a life well-lived is 
one for the ages.
His accolades and 
accomplishments included 
numerous speaking engagements, 
news stories and medical journal 
articles.
He is survived by his beloved 
wife, Lynn; he was dear father 
to Kevin Markowitz and the late 
Meryl Markowitz. He was the 
brother of Ruth (Bernard) Moss, 
Seymour (Audrey) Markowitz, the 
late Pauline Kavesky, and the late 
Morris Markowitz.
Contributions may be made 
to a charity of one’s choice. 
Arrangements by Dorfman 
Chapel. 

A Dedicated Physician

Dr. Arnold Markowitz

Most cremations are performed due to financial pressures.
Allow us to give you options.

