UConn Health

November 8, 2011 | Carolyn Pennington - Schools of Medicine and Dental Medicine

Health Center Family Loses a Founding Father

The UConn Health Center is mourning the passing of Dr. James F. O’Rourke, professor emeritus of immunology, and one of the founders of the Health Center’s vision research program.

Dr. James O'Rourke in his lab. (UConn Health Center Archive)
Dr. James O'Rourke in his lab. (UConn Health Center Archive)

The UConn Health Center is mourning the passing of Dr. James F. O’Rourke, professor emeritus of immunology, and one of the founders of the Health Center’s vision research program.

O’Rourke’s long and accomplished career in academic medicine and research included a 42-year tenure at the UConn Health Center. He retired earlier this year.

Among his many achievements, O’Rourke established a close relationship with the Connecticut Lions Eye Research Foundation and served as director of the Connecticut Lions Vision Center for nearly 40 years. He was also widely published and served as the first director of the Division of Ophthalmology.

O’Rourke died Oct. 29 at age 86. His complete obituary, including information about calling hours and a memorial service, is available online.

Dr. James O'Rourke (right) demonstrates the adjustment of a laser beam as it would be used with an eye patient with the aid of Dr. Ijaz Shafi, a member of the opthalmology staff. (UConn Health Center Archive)
Dr. James O'Rourke (right) demonstrates the adjustment of a laser beam as it would be used with an eye patient with the aid of Dr. Ijaz Shafi, a member of the ophthalmology staff. (UConn Health Center Archive)

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