figure a

Dr. Y. M. Fazil Marickar, a distinguished clinician scientist, renowned teacher, and beloved friend to many, passed away on March 22, 2023, at 75. He had a remarkable career in the medical field, which spanned several decades. He was serving as the Dean of the Mount Zion Medical College, Adoor, Kerala, India.

Dr. Marickar began his medical education at the Government Medical College in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, where he earned his MBBS in 1971. He obtained his MS in General Surgery in 1976, followed by MAMS in 1977. In 1991, he became the first medical doctor in Kerala to receive a Ph.D. for his research on urolithiasis, setting an example for others in the field.

Throughout his career, Dr. Marickar made significant contributions to the surgical field, receiving several fellowships, including FIMSA (1992), FAS (1999), FAMS (2000), and FEMSI (2009). He retired as the Professor and Head of the Department of Surgery from Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. He served as a faculty member at SUT College of Medicine and principal of Azeezia Medical College, Kollam, Kerala; principal of the Mount Zion Medical College, Adoor, Kerala; and vice-chancellor of Mount Zion International Medical University, Rwanda, at various times.

Dr. Marickar was a leading researcher on urolithiasis, conducting extensive studies on various aspects of the disease, including its epidemiology, biochemical composition of stones, X-ray crystallography, and spectrophotography. He presented numerous papers and chaired scientific sessions at the quadrennial meetings of the International Society of Urolithiasis since 1984, earning him a board membership in 1988. Additionally, he served as an Editorial Board Member of Urological Research and the publication “Urolithiasis.”

Dr. Marickar will be remembered as an exceptional surgical teacher and mentor to many medical trainees and young researchers. Despite facing a serious illness towards the end of his life, he remained resilient and courageous, finding strength in his work and family.

On behalf of the Board of the International Urolithiasis Society, we express condolence at the loss of one of its strongest supporters and board members. Dr. Fazil Marickar leaves a legacy of tireless scholarship and unwavering dedication to the medical profession and research, which will continue to inspire and influence future generations.