Dr. Alexander Dobrovic, an esteemed researcher in the field of cancer molecular genetics and pathology, passed away suddenly on July 13, 2024, at the age of 70. He was born in Adelaide, South Australia on June 20, 1954. He was renowned for his pioneering work in personalized medicine and for developing innovative diagnostic methodologies, including tests for detecting KRAS, BRAF, and TP53 mutations. His contributions significantly advanced the understanding of cancer epigenetics and the development of targeted therapies. Dr. Dobrovic was the head of the Molecular Pathology Research and Development Lab at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and led the Translational Genomics Laboratory at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute. His work on mutation, methylation, and expression analysis of clinical samples has been widely recognized and has had a lasting impact on cancer diagnostics and treatment.
In his youth, Alexander found joy and inspiration in the compositions of great maestros, a love that blossomed into a lifelong dedication to classical music and opera. He and his wife were familiar faces at concerts, operas and recitals. Alexander also had an appreciation and love of fine dining, reading, cooking, traveling, singing and gardening. He also loved our nine magpies which he delighted in feeding each morning.
Alex is survived by his wife, JoAnn M Dobrovic; stepsons Robert B. Ellis, his wife Katie Ellis and grandchildren Kalen and Abigail; David P. Ellis, his wife Katie Ellis and grandchildren Camden, Grayson and Jack; and his sister, Mira Glivar and her husband Bill Glivar.
To honor Alex’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. I invite you to please privately celebrate Alexander’s memory in your own way. I know that he will be with us all in spirit and will always live in our hearts. His life is a blessing to many, and his memory is a treasure to all who love him. Sleep well, my darling husband.
Funeral by : Bare Cremation
