Dr. Philip Leonard “Len” Townes, 90, died Saturday, April 1, 2017 at Rose Monahan Hospice Home in Worcester after an illness.

Len was born on February 18, 1927 in Salem, the son of the late Saul and Lillian Townes.  He graduated from Harvard University in 1948 and later from the University of Rochester where he received his MD and PhD.  Len moved to Worcester from Rochester, New York  in 1979 when he accepted a professorship at the University of Massachusetts Medical School as a Pediatric Geneticist.  He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during WWII.

Len leaves his wife of 60 years, Marjorie (Greenstone) Townes; his three children, Elizabeth Townes of San Francisco, Susan Townes of Worcester and Dr. David Townes and his wife, Dr. Ani Fleisig of Seattle, WA and their daughters, Eloise and Maya Townes; his sister, June Riseberg; as well as several nieces and nephews. Len was predeceased by his sister, Shirley Tobins.

Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.