Frits Mijer, MD

MIJER, FRITS

Frits Mijer, MD, a life long Denver Pediatrician died January 20, 2013, with his wife Midge at his side. He is survived by his wife, Midge, son, John Mijer, MD and his wife Sarah, and granddaughter, Jennifer. He was born in Haarlem, Netherlands April 15, 1927 to Jan and Marie Mijer, the middle of three sons. He attended Medical School at the University of Leiden in Holland. He immigrated to the United States, and trained in Pediatric Medicine at Boston City Hospital. He served in the United States Army as a Major, practicing medicine at Fitzsimons Army base, Aurora. He remained in Colorado caring for three generations of Denver children. He watched over many of the children in his own neighborhood. He was an active teacher in Pediatrics to many medical students and residents at his South Downing Pediatric practice. He received awards for his outstanding care in Pediatrics. The University of Colorado Health Sciences Center gave him an honorary professorship in Pediatrics for his service. He was a gentle soul who cared deeply for his patients and was cherished by them as well. He was regarded as a “doctor's doctor” by many of his peers. He promoted the healthy practice of breastfeeding for La Leche league. He retired from active practice in 2000. His best friend, Mac Muffly taught Frits to fly fish, and together visited rivers all over the Western United States. Frits became an avid fly fisherman, who spent many hours with his friends, and son, on his beloved South Platte River. He was a bibliophile, who often had three to four books open at the same time. He knew and loved world history, which he discussed with enthusiasm to welcoming ears. He was an excellent water polo player as a young man and also played soccer and liked sailing. He enjoyed skiing in Colorado and loved the outdoors.

It was his wish to have no formal funeral services or reception. A memorial journal will be available at Bullock Mortuary for anyone wishing to leave any personal memories or photos of Frits Mijer. Contributions in his memory may be made to: the Dumb Friends League at 2080 S. Quebec St., Denver, CO 80231, 303-696-4941.

His family wishes to thank the many friends who visited Frits. We would like to thank his many caregivers who helped with his care this past year.