Dr. Leo Marcus, a New York born dentist and sculptor, died May 22 at his home in Whitefield. Born on June 16, 1919, Dr. Marcus grew up in New York City and Brooklyn, N.Y., attended New York University as an undergraduate, followed by the University of Pittsburgh Dental School, which the U.S. Army had taken over during WWII. He graduated as a dentist and Lieutenant from the Army. After WWII, Dr. Marcus started a dental practice with offices in Brooklyn, N.Y. In 1954, he and his wife, Claire, moved to Freeport, N.Y., moving his practice there a few years later. Dr. Marcus was involved in school and community in Freeport until he retired; and he and Claire moved to Whitefield in 1981.
After moving to Maine, he immediately immersed himself in becoming a part of the community. He joined Temple Beth-El in Augusta. He also volunteered his time and considerable energies to Volunteer Services at Maine General Medical Center. He began taking art courses at UMA, evolving as a sculptor. He was on the original Hospice of Kennebec Valley Board, serving on the board for many years. He also served on the board of directors of the Kennebec Valley Mental Health Center and was president of that board. He was instrumental in starting and revitalizing the annual Mile of Art, held in Augusta on the grounds of UMA in Augusta. He was a member of the Kennebec Valley Art Association and his work will be in the windows of the gallery in Hallowell, June through October, with an entire gallery show planned for 2007. He also volunteered in local schools, introducing children to the art of sculpting.
Dr. Marcus was a sculptor who worked in many mediums, and produced an enormous body of work. He has a collection of pieces at Maine General Medical Center in Augusta. He also has a piece dedicated to his deceased wife, Claire, outside Jewett Hall at UMA.
He is survived by his daughter, Dr. Judith Ehrenfeld of Freeport, N.Y.; sons, Paul Marcus of Whitefield and Gary Marcus and wife Jill of Charlotte, N.C.; grandchildren, Nathan Ehrenfeld and wife Tammy, Fay, Dara, Benjamin, Jenna Marcus, Zachary, and Kyle Marcus; and great grandchildren, Hayden Ehrenfeld and Ava Marcus.
Memorial service 1 p.m., Sun., June 11 at the Temple Beth-El, Woodlawn Ave., Augusta.
Donations in Dr. Marcus’ name may be made to Claire and Leo Marcus Hospice Fund, c/o Maine General Philanthropy, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903.
Arrangements are under the care of Staples Funeral Home of Gardiner.
