Vasanth M Surath

Dr. Vasanth Madhav Surath, (fondly known as Dr. V), a devoted husband, a family patriarch, a compassionate physician and an inspiring mentor, passed away (at age 73) on September 30, 2021. He was born in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India on May 3rd, 1948 to Dr. Madhav Rao Surath and Mrs. Rathnavathi Pillarisetti MA.

Since his early childhood, he exemplified his excellence in academics, as a born leader and a visionary. He graduated with a medical degree from Guntur Medical College, Andhra University, India in 1970, as a gold medalist (first in class) and president of the student body.

In 1972, he immigrated to the USA to pursue his passion in medicine and chose Chicago as his future home. Soon after his residency, he founded Commonwealth Medical Associates, in 1976, to practice medicine. As a visionary in patient-care, he grew the organization to serve in multiple locations, including the Southside. In the 1980s, he additionally led the growth of St. Joseph’s Medical Group/ Hospital, as a pioneering Independent Practice Association. He served in additional leadership roles in many other medical organizations through the mid-1990s, until he could no longer practice due to personal medical reasons.

He inspired many by being a role model to continuously improve oneself. He was a lifelong learner: completed a MBA in 1989, from University of Chicago and pursing an MS in Communications at Northwestern through 1994.

After retiring in 1994, he focused on his other passions for mentoring, traveling, and supporting charitable causes in education, patient advocacy and fine arts.

He is survived by his spouse, Yolanda Surath, siblings (2 sisters and 3 brothers) and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 from 3-8pm at Drake and Son Funeral Home, 5303 N Western Ave, Chicago. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, October 7, 2021 at 10am at St. Mary of the Angels Church, 1850 N Hermitage Ave, Chicago. Interment to follow at Maryhill Catholic Cemetery, Niles IL. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in honor of Dr. Surath to St. Mary of the Angels School, or The Kidney Foundation. For more information call 773-561-6874.