Jaroslav J. Jilek MD

Jaroslav J. Jilek, M.D., 83, passed away in Jacksonville on Thursday, January 24, 2013 following a short illness.  He is survived by a sister, two nephews, and one life long friend, all residing in the Czech Republic, as well as a loving extended family in Jacksonville. “Jerry” as known to his friends, colleagues, and loved ones, was born and educated in Czechoslovakia, receiving his medical degree from Charles University in Prague, beginning his medical career in 1953.  In 1966, Jerry defected communist controlled Czechoslovakia, thru Austria, and on to the east coast of Canada where he began the process of establishing his medical credentials for acceptance in Canada and the United States.  Though an experienced general and plastic surgeon in his homeland, Jerry chose to specialize in Urology, and was fortunate to study under, and be mentored by, one of Canada’s most famous and decorated Urologist’s, Dr. Arthur E. Chesley, M.D.C.M., L.M.C.C., FRCSC, D.Sc. at the St. John Regional Hospital in St. John, New Brunswick. In 1969, Jerry moved to Jacksonville and completed his residency at University Hospital.  In December of 1973, Jerry opened his solo Urology practice and continued as a solo practitioner for over 33 years, retiring at the age of 77 in 2006.  He was a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and member of the American Urological Association, Duval County Medical Society and American Medical Association.  He served several terms as the Chief of Urology at Memorial Medical Center. One of Jerry’s proudest life achievements was authoring a novel titled Running West under the pen name of Jan Krofta, loosely based on his life’s experiences defecting from Czechoslovakia.  However, nothing was more passionate to Jerry than the care of his patients, to the point of numerous times going to his patients’ home to render care when they were not able to visit his office.  He never lost the “home town doctor” mentality of practicing medicine he learned and practiced in his homeland. In keeping with Jerry’s wishes, there will be no formal services. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223. www.hgmandarin.com (904) 288-0025.