Dr. Melvin P. Bubrick

Dr. Melvin “Mel” Phillip Bubrick, 81, retired surgeon, devoted father and loving grandfather passed away peacefully on April 14th 2026 surrounded by his family’s love.  He lived a life defined by quiet strength and an enduring commitment to those he loved.

For decades, Mel practiced surgery with precision and heart.  He was known not only for his skill but for his ability to take calculated risks, finding hope for his patients when others saw hopelessness.  To many he was more than a physician, he was a source of possibility as well an adored teacher and mentor.  He served as Chief of Surgery at Hennipen Country Medical Center for many years, and he was an integral part of bringing Minneapolis its first Level One trauma center, an accomplishment he hoped would serve the community long after his departure from medicine.

Mel faced the gradual loss of vision to glaucoma with the same quiet courage that he met all of life’s challenges.  Though his vision diminished completely over time, his loving and generous spirit persisted and brightened the lives lives of so many.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son and best friend Dr. Jerry Bubrick, his devoted wife Barbara Bubrick, cherished siblings Sharon Subeck, Jerry Bubrick and furry companions Checkers, Libby and Boomer.

He is survived by his daughters Dr. Ellen Bubrick (Dr. Joshua Namias) and Dena Tranen (Daniel Tranen) and his 6 grandchildren, Maya Bubrick, Gabby Bubrick, Maddie Namias, Brooke Namias, Sam Tranen and Milo Tranen as well The Subeck, Spanjer and Reiss families all of whom he loved very much, as well as the close friends he enjoyed throughout the years.

Mel will be remembered as he hoped one day he would be – as a great guy.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Continuum Education and Therapy, a school for children with disabilities, https://www.continuumeducationandtherapy.org/donate-1or The Lighthouse of Collier: Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, https://www.lighthouseofcollier.org/donate/