Dr. S. Burton Roth

Burton was preceded in death by his wife of 60 plus years, Natalie (Abramson) Roth. Burton is survived by his three children: Kathryn Galainena (David), Andrew (Sharon), and Victoria; five grandchildren: Stephanie Galainena, Samantha Galainena, AJ Galainena, Adam Roth, and Rachel Roth; great-granddaughter, Fiona Galainena; and his devoted brother, Ronald Roth and his wife Sandy.

As a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he attended Valley Forge Military Academy and The University of Pittsburgh where he received both his undergraduate degree and a masters in microbiology; he was also a proud member of the Phi Ep Fraternity. After college, he served three years as a captain in the US Air Force at Lackland where he met the love of his life - Natalie.

Burton attended medical school at Rosalind Franklin Medical School (formerly known as Chicago Medical School) while working full time as a microbiologist in food safety in order to support his young wife and three young children.

Burton did his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Wisconsin and immediately upon graduation started a solo practice in Melrose Park, Illinois ultimately rising to become Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Gottlieb Hospital; he delivered over 5,000 babies during his long and storied career. He was a strong proponent for the inclusion of fathers in the delivery room and fought tirelessly to protect the safety of women during pregnancy. He was an ardent supporter of Planned Parenthood. Burt was also the president of the DuPage County American Cancer Society and the president of the Chicago Medical School Alumni Association.

Burton was adored by his family, friends, and patients; there was always a lasagna or manicotti in the freezer from one of his patients. Even after retirement, his patients continued to call for medical advice.

He was very proud that his son Andrew (“Dr. Andy”) joined his practice and looked forward to his annual fishing trip with Andy and grandson Adam. He also loved watching Stephanie and Samantha’s tennis matches, AJ’s water polo games, and sharing an ice cream cone with Rachel. Burt’s zest for life included long bike rides with his biking group focused on the next best restaurant and hard fought tennis matches on the Pelican Bay courts. He lived his life with uncompromising vigor and passion; he will be sorely missed but always loved.

A funeral service will be Monday, February 14, 2022 at 3:00 PM at Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens, officiated by Rabbi Fishel Zaklos.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Chabad House of Naples or Rosalind Franklin Medical School.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hodgesfhatnaplesmg.com for the Roth family.