Michael A. Wolfson

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Michael A. Wolfson, M.D.

February 28, 1949 - May 11, 2026

Michael A. Wolfson, M.D., of Syracuse, New York, passed away surrounded by his family on May 11, 2026, after a brief illness. Michael devoted his life to medicine, public health, environmental justice, and his family. As a physician specializing in family practice and occupational and environmental medicine, he spent decades advocating against environmental hazards and injustices long before many recognized their impact on communities and public health. He was deeply committed to helping others and was known among family, friends, and patients for his willingness to offer guidance, solve difficult medical problems, and care for those in need.

Michael completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Rochester, where he met his wife Carolyn. He attended medical school at SUNY Upstate Medical University, completed a family medicine residency and addictions fellowship at Brown University, and earned an MPH in public health at Harvard University. He loved reading, photography, music, traveling, trying new hot sauces, and discovering new interests throughout his life. A lover of the blues and jazz, he took up guitar lessons later in life. Michael was also an avid sports fan who faithfully participated in a football pool with his daughter Kate for more than 20 years and looked forward to March Madness each spring.

Above all, Michael was a devoted husband and father. He cherished time with family, quiet evenings doing crossword puzzles and listening to jazz with his wife, Carolyn, and encouraging his daughters, Becca and Kate, to pursue excellence in everything they did. Thoughtful, protective, and endlessly curious, he found joy in small moments, meaningful conversation, and time spent with the people he loved most.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn, and daughters, Becca and Kate.

A memorial service celebrating Michael’s life will be held at Sisskind Funeral Chapel on October 10, 2026, with additional details to be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael’s memory may be made to Doctors Without Borders or another charitable organization of your choice.