William J. Fishkind, MD, FACS
William J. Fishkind, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, physician, teacher, and friend, passed away on October 1, surrounded by the love of his family.
Bill dedicated his life to medicine and to serving others. As the founder of Northwest Eye Specialists (now Oracle Eye Physicians & Surgeons) in Tucson, he spent more than 50 years caring for patients and helping them regain not only their vision but often their independence and quality of life. To Bill, medicine was much more than a profession; it was a calling and a privilege.
A highly respected ophthalmic surgeon and educator, Bill was board-certified in both internal medicine and ophthalmology. He authored numerous publications and textbooks and taught physicians and surgeons throughout the world. He served in many professional leadership roles, including president and later president emeritus of the Outpatient Ophthalmic Surgery Society. Yet despite his many accomplishments, Bill remained humble and deeply committed to the community he served.
Bill’s commitment to service extended beyond medicine to the Jewish community that meant so much to him. A devoted member of Temple Emanu-El in Tucson, he served as president of the congregation, helping guide and strengthen the synagogue during his tenure. He found deep meaning in his faith, valued the friendships and sense of community it provided, and took great pride in supporting Jewish life in Southern Arizona. His leadership was characterized by the same thoughtfulness, integrity, and dedication that defined every aspect of his life.
While service to others shaped much of his life, Bill also embraced every opportunity to learn, explore, and experience the world around him. He had an adventurous spirit and a lifelong love of flying. He cherished the freedom of being in the air, traveling to new places, meeting new people, and experiencing the world. His curiosity, energy, and willingness to explore were defining parts of who he was.
Above all, Bill treasured his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Wendy; his children, Jennifer and Bret; and his four grandchildren, who were his greatest sources of pride and joy. His family will remember not only the accomplished physician, but also the husband, father and grandfather who loved them deeply, shared his wisdom, encouraged their dreams, and filled their lives with stories, adventure, humor, and love.
Though he will be deeply missed, Bill’s legacy lives on through the countless patients he helped see the world more clearly, the community he served with such dedication, and the family he loved so dearly.
His service will be held on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, at 9 a.m. at Evergreen Mortuary, 3015 North Oracle Road, Tucson, AZ 85705.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to causes that were especially meaningful to Bill. Contributions may be made to the Jewish Philanthropies of Southern Arizona, Hospice of the Valley, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
