Kenneth B. Juechter, MD

Kenneth B. Juechter, MD, ophthalmic surgeon and teacher passed peacefully in his home on the morning of December 6th, 2022, at the age of 90.

Ken was born in Tenafly, NJ to parents Raymond and Sybil Juechter. He was the second of nine children. Growing up in Demarest, NJ, Ken loved all that the surrounding nature offered–climbing trees, fishing, and especially catching and caring for local wildlife, with a special fondness for turtles and snakes. Ken and his siblings were well known in the community, and their home, which sat atop a hill, cordially known as “Juechter Hill,” became the favorite spot for sledding on snowy winter days.

After high school, Ken continued in his adventurous spirit by joining the Merchant Marines, where he traveled the world, spending time in the homes of different peoples, experiencing and growing his deep love and acceptance of many cultures. He was then drafted into the Army. He made Officer Candidate School (OCS) and subsequently qualified to be an Army Ranger. He was honorably discharged as a 1st Lieutenant and, using the G.I. Bill, was accepted, and entered undergraduate studies at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. He graduated from Georgetown in 1963 and pursued a Doctor of Medicine at New York Medical College in New York City.

Ken was president of his class for the 4 years of medical school and found his calling in ophthalmology. Following a residency at New York Medical College he completed a fellowship in ophthalmic pathology at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP) in 1973. This was the beginning of an incredible 47-year career of service to humanity.

As an ophthalmologist Ken was known for his ability to perform difficult surgeries as well as adoration from his patients. He was a business owner and attending physician at Our Lady of Mercy/Montefiore Medical Center, and later at Westchester Medical Center. He ran a residency teaching program and received multiple “Teacher of the Year Awards.” He was among the "Top Doc's of Westchester," for many years and has authored and coauthored numerous publications in academic ophthalmology journals. Despite his success and all the accolades, he remained humble, enthusiastic about his work, and dedicated to his patients.

Ken is predeceased by his parents, his brothers Raymond, Philip, Matthew, and David, and sister Carol. He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Kay, his sisters, Irene, Nancy and Sybil; his children, Ruth, Lisa, Daniel (Susan), Adam (Christine), and Andrew, and his grandchildren whom he adored, David, Jack, Dianna, Leah, and Kyle.

Ken lived a rich, full life and enjoyed the pleasure of great food, good wine, company, and spirited discussion. He loved golf, traveling, spending time outdoors, and most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family. His and Kay's Christmas, Easter, and July 4th celebrations remain legendary! He touched so many lives and will be dearly missed.

A Mass service will be celebrated on Saturday, January 7th at 10:00am at Holy Name of Mary Church in Croton on Hudson, NY. A memorial repast will follow afterwards from 12:00pm to 4:00pm at Edward F. Carter Funeral Home also in Croton on Hudson.