Born in Syracuse, New York, Dr. Fellows devoted his career to advancing the fields of physiology and endocrinology and to educating future generations of physician-scientists. He earned his A.B. from Hamilton College, his M.D., C.M. from McGill University, and his Ph.D. from Duke University.

After residencies at The New York Hospital and the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal, he joined the faculty at Duke University before moving to the University of Iowa in 1976. There, he served as Chair of the Department of Physiology for more than two decades, recruited outstanding faculty, and played a pivotal role in launching the NIH-funded Medical Scientist Training Program (MD/PhD), now in its sixth decade.

Dr. Fellows’ research on neuronal development and the role of hormones

August 4, 1933 – November 21, 2025 and growth factors was widely published and supported by major NIH grants. Upon his retirement in 2008, he was named Professor Emeritus. Known for his intellect, integrity, and gentle humor, Dr. Fellows was a dedicated mentor who inspired countless students and colleagues. Bob owned a cottage in Northport for 32 years, and was one of the founders of the Northport Youth Sailing School. He served on the board for over 10 years as a Director and committee chair. Being the experienced sailor that he was, Bob was a wealth of information in helping to develop new programs, always making sure that all U.S. Sailing guidelines were followed. He is survived by his daughters, Kara Suzanne Fellows and Ariadne Fellows-Mannion; his grandchildren, Daisy Elizabeth Fellows and Rowan Fellows-Mannion; and his first wife, Alice Fellows. He was predeceased by his second wife, Karlen Kiger.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Planned Parenthood.