Joseph J. DeRose MD

April 26, 2023

Dr. Joseph DeRose was a proud graduate of Xavier High School in NYC and the College of the Holy Cross in Worchester MA. He graduated from SUNY Downstate Medical School in 1963, and completed his residency training in Internal Medicine at SUNY Downstate where he was selected to be chief resident.

After serving 2 years in the public health service in Washington, DC; Dr. DeRose joined the faculty at SUNY Downstate eventually rising to the academic rank of Associate Professor. He opened a private practice in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn where he was universally loved by his patients.

Dr. DeRose lived his professional life in honor and respect of the notion that “Medicine truly is the noblest of all professions.” He was a world class teacher who leaves behind a legacy of hundreds of students and residents who trained at his side. He was known as a master clinician, expert in the art of physical exam and differential diagnosis.

He loved playing craps, tennis and binging old episodes of Columbo. He was an enthusiastic boxing fan, Yankee fan and Jets fan.

Beloved husband of 60 years to Patricia. Loving father of MaryLou Vassalle (Massimo) and Joseph DeRose (Laina). Immensely proud grandfather of Joey, Nicole, Allison, and Marisa. Funeral Mass was held at St. Mary’s R.C. Church, Manhasset, NY followed by a private entombment.