Founder, Mentor, Visionary | Chicago Cornea Consultants™
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved founder, Dr. Randy J. Epstein, who died on May 22, 2025. This past weekend has been a profoundly sad time for all of us at Chicago Cornea Consultants™. We mourn the loss of not only a brilliant physician and respected educator, but also a mentor, colleague, and friend whose impact shaped the foundation and future of our practice.
A Legacy Rooted in Chicago
Dr. Epstein was a true son of Chicago. Born and raised in West Rogers Park, he pursued his undergraduate education at the University of Illinois in Urbana before earning his medical degree from Rush Medical College. His passion for ophthalmology took him through a residency at Rush-Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center, followed by prestigious fellowships in ocular immunology and cornea-external diseases/refractive surgery at Emory University. There, he earned the esteemed NIH/National Eye Institute National Research Service Award.
A Pioneer in Ophthalmology
In 1986, Dr. Epstein returned home to Chicago to join Dr. Richard Dennis and help form what would become Chicago Cornea Consultants™. His expertise in corneal surgery, refractive procedures, and the management of complex complications quickly earned him a reputation as one of Chicago’s most trusted ophthalmologists.
For decades, he transformed the lives of thousands through compassionate care, technical precision, and a deep commitment to excellence. His legacy is reflected in the many patients who regained their sight, the countless students he mentored, and the physicians around the world who learned from his teachings.
A Devoted Father and Inspiring Role Model
One of Dr. Epstein’s greatest sources of pride was sharing his passion for ophthalmology with his daughter, Dr. Rachel Epstein. Their journey from father and daughter to mentor and mentee, and eventually colleagues, was a profound and deeply personal chapter in both their lives. From childhood memories of watching surgical videos together to performing side-by-side in the clinic and OR, their bond transcended family—it became a shared calling. Dr. Epstein once wrote that Rachel’s decision to follow in his footsteps meant more to him than he could have ever imagined. In turn, Rachel described her father as her greatest teacher, the reason she found her path in medicine, and the person who taught her not just how to treat disease, but how to truly care for people. Their relationship stands as a testament to the lasting power of mentorship, love, and legacy.
A Tireless Educator and Advocate
Dr. Epstein served as Professor of Ophthalmology at Rush University and held influential roles in professional organizations including the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and the International Society of Refractive Surgery. He received numerous honors throughout his career, including the Senior Achievement Award from the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Distinguished Alumnus Award from Emory University.
His dedication extended far beyond the clinic and classroom. Dr. Epstein served for many years on the Executive Board of Eversight Illinois, raising awareness and funds to advance eye research and provide critical care to those in need of corneal transplants.
A Life Fully Lived
Outside of medicine, Dr. Epstein was full of energy and joy. He cherished time with his family, found peace on the ski slopes, discipline in marathon training, and fun in scuba diving, golf, and global travel. He lived life with purpose, curiosity, and generosity—qualities that endeared him to all who knew him.
Honoring His Memory
Dr. Randy Epstein’s influence on Chicago Cornea Consultants™ and the field of ophthalmology will endure for generations. As we grieve, we also celebrate a life marked by brilliance, kindness, and unwavering dedication to vision and care.
To our patients, peers, and community: thank you for your support during this difficult time. We remain committed to continuing the legacy that Dr. Epstein so passionately built—one of compassion, innovation, and clinical excellence.
Rest in peace, Dr. Epstein. Your vision lives on through the lives you touched, the knowledge you shared, and the family, colleagues, and students who carry your legacy forward.
