Dr. Roger Hurwitz

Roger Allen Hurwitz, M. D. was born in Cleveland in 1934. His mother Gladys’ (nee Hertz) family immigrated to the United States in the latter half of the 19th century and his father, Maurice, made a daring solo escape from Russia as a teenager. Maurice went on to graduate from the University of California, Berkeley, and its law school, Boalt Hall.

Like his father, Roger revered academics. He was the high school valedictorian and graduated with honors from Dartmouth College in 1956. The Big Green years were foundational for the remainder of his life. He proudly returned the entirety of his scholarship many times over in donations and was a member of the esteemed Hal Ripley Society, which only includes graduates who have given every single year since graduation.

Next, he matriculated at Northwestern University School of Medicine, where he met his wife, Francine Rosenblatt (an undergraduate student at that time). Following this was training in pediatrics in Chicago and a fellowship in pediatric cardiology at UCLA (where he earned an additional master's degree).

In 1968, he began his career at Riley Children’s Hospital (Indiana University School of Medicine). He was a pioneer in guiding the nascent section of pediatric cardiology, then with a total of two faculty, into a formidable group now with over thirty physicians. He was a world-renowned researcher, publishing innumerable book chapters, scientific articles, and regularly lecturing internationally. He cherished the opportunity to educate residents and helmed the pediatric cardiology fellowship training program for many years. In recognition of his career achievements, he was awarded the Founders Medal, the prestigious award from the American Academy of Pediatrics (Section of Cardiology) and their highest honor.

But his greatest concern was caring for the babies and children of Indiana. It seemed like whenever he was out in public a former patient (or parent) would approach him and thank him for saving their life. Of course he remained humble while his family was beaming with pride.

After practicing pediatric cardiology for 48 years (the longest tenure in Indiana state history), the Governor named him a Sagamore of the Wabash, the highest civilian honor of the state. The Indiana House of Representatives made a proclamation in honor for his ninetieth birthday. And a plaque acknowledging his career will forever be on view at Riley.

Needless to say, he was a very regimented person, and this was the source of much of his success. Without fail, he played tennis three times a week until age 84. He enjoyed food, wine, and travel. His wine cellar was enviable, and he always looked forward to sharing special bottles with friends and family to celebrate momentous occasions and achievements. Perhaps outside of his career, he will be best remembered as a passionate supporter of the visual arts. He strongly advocated for public art and donated generously to the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the Indiana University Museum of Art, the Hood Museum at Dartmouth College, and the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation.

Courage, strength, sincerity, philanthropy, grit, and abject kindness were his hallmarks. He was also a lot of fun to be around, quick to laugh and smile, and his empathy was obvious. He was clearly universally admired. He treasured his patients ( the “youngsters”of Indiana), colleagues, and eventually his caretakers.

Additionally, he was patriotic and served as a captain in the US Army, stationed at Fort Gordon in Augusta, Georgia. Like his father, Maurice, his casket will be adorned with the stars and stripes.

But we’ve saved the very best for last. He was absolutely the finest husband, father, and grandfather ever. His family meant everything to him. He had a remarkable and profound impact on their lives, and for that, we are all extremely grateful. He will forever be in the hearts and spirit of his children, Andy (Arlene) of Santa Monica and Valerie Goldblatt (Shelby) of Carmel. And his beloved grandchildren: Rogan, Sloan, Olivia, Aleah, and Adiana. Daddy/Papa was our hero, and that will never change.

Roger Hurwitz personified kindness and dignity and we lost him at a time when the world needs this most. We love you.

Funeral services will be held at the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, 6501 N. Meridian Street, on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 2:00 pm.  Burial will follow in IHC North Cemetery.  Arrangements entrusted to Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Funeral Home.  To share a memory of Roger, please visit www.arnmortuary.com

Memorial contributions may be made to IHC, Riley Hospital for Children, or Newfields