‘The End of an Era’: Robert Morden, MD, Retires After 40 Years
May 15, 2025
It’s not often that having your car stolen leads to a remarkable career. But then, Robert Morden, MD, pediatric general surgery, is a pretty remarkable physician.
Dr. Morden and a portrait of his grandfather.
About 47 years ago, he was working at another health system when his car was stolen. It wasn’t until days later that police told him it was in the parking lot of then-named Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak.
“I went and got it, thought it looked like a nice hospital and decided to interview,” he said: “Now I want to thank some guy for stealing my car.”
Five years of residency and 43 years as an attending surgeon at the Royal Oak hospital later, Dr. Morden will retire at the end of June.
It is “the end of an era,” Nathan Novotny, MD, pediatric general surgery, said.
“In a field known for intense demands, he remained quietly carrying the responsibility, making personal sacrifices and laying the foundation for the team we have today,” Dr. Novotny said. “His commitment, leadership, and resilience have shaped the culture of care that defines our program.”
Begum Akay, MD, surgical critical care and pediatric general surgery, said having Dr. Morden for a partner, “is like having a surgical angel who will always know the answer to any clinical question.”
“I feel extremely grateful to have had his support for so many years,” she said. “He will be missed every day.”
Looking back at his career, Dr. Morden said he has had the privilege of working with “unbelievable” physicians and nurses, all dedicated to providing the best possible care for children.
“Being involved in the training of over 200 surgical residents has been one of the most satisfying memories,” he said. “I have been blessed with having worked with partners who are not only great surgeons, but good friends as well.”
Dr. Morden is looking forward to retirement and spending more time with his family and wife, who he said supported him and “tolerated” work night calls while they raised four great sons together.
The couple will spend more time at their cottage in Michigan’s Thumb region, where Dr. Morden’s grandfather, Charles B. Morden, was a general practitioner in the early 20th century. Dr. Morden also plans to teach their seven grandchildren how to sail.