Dr. Bernard "Buz" Salafsky

December 27, 1935 - September 27, 2017

Dr. Bernard "Buz" Salafsky passed away on September 27th, 2017 in Rockford. Born December 27, 1935, Buz was the longest serving Dean at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford, which he led from 1983 until 2004. He received his PhD from the University of Washington before embarking on assignments all over the world. Buz joined the faculty of UIC-Rockford in 1977 in biomedical sciences, and was a fixture of the Rockford community since. His contributions were extensive, from developing the rural health program, to researching tropical disease prevention, to championing medical education that placed emphasis on the patient and the value of primary care. In his professional life, Buz was a thoughtful leader, a gifted communicator, and an accomplished innovator. In his personal life, he lived modestly and enjoyed a love of books, The Economist, plants, and storytelling. Buz is survived by his wife Marilyn, brother Ira, sons Joshua, Daniel, and David (Yissel), granddaughters Madeline and Phoebe, and grandsons Isaac and Ethan. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Dr. Salafsky to the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford. Celebration of life Friday, September 29th at UIC-Rockford at 9 a.m., followed by graveside service at Rockford Hebrew Cemetery at 11a.m., with Rabbi Chesky Rothman officiating. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com