Dr. Burton S. Markowitz

The world has lost a giant of a man. 'Doc' was a problem-solver, a hugger, a master joke teller, a lover of trivia, puns, travel, and good food. A life-long car enthusiast, he enjoyed annual trips to Watkins Glen to drive his Porsche at top speeds. He was an avid radio control flyer and enjoyed golfing and skiing. He was a dedicated sports fan, especially the Mets, Yankees, and his alma mater, OSU. Starting with two puppies that were a surprise gift to Tammy, they had many miniature schnauzers over the years that were treasured family members. Doc was born in the Bronx, NY on July 28, 1944 to David and Selma Markowitz. He is also survived by sister Ree Davis of Flushing, NY, niece April (Kevin) Kane and grand nephew Damon of Sterling, MA, nephew Eric Davis of Tempe, AZ, many cousins, and dear friends. He graduated from SUNY Buffalo with a BS in Psychology and earned his Doctor of Optometry at The Ohio State University. He fell so in love with Ithaca's beauty that he decided to open his practice here and make it his home. He and Tammy met on a blind date, an ironic twist for an optometrist, and they married in 1969. Over the years he served as president of both the South Central Optometric Society and the Ithaca Lions Club, and volunteered many hours with Head Start. He was an admired Optometrist who practiced in Ithaca for 45 years and treated his patients with care and friendship. In lieu of flowers, his family would appreciate if you choose to make a donation in his name to the United Jewish Appeal (UJA) or the Lions Club.