Jack on Jack: Lessenberry on the late Kevorkian

Jun 3, 2011 at 2:21 pm
Carbonatix Pre-Player Loader

Audio By Carbonatix

After struggling with kidney problems for a number of years, Michigan's Jack "Dr. Death" Kevorkian passed away earlier today at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak. Aged 83, Kevorkian has always been a polarizing figure and in the past 20 years the on-and-off subject of national attention. The University of Michigan graduate pathologist was ever a champion of the "right to die" philosophy, garnering both adamant support and fierce opposition for his role in the assisted suicide of some 130 people.

Metro Times columnist Jack Lessenberry knows Kevorkian as well as, arguably better than anyone in the media, and has written numerous pieces since the 1990s  highlighting the trials (literally) and tribulations of the doctor, the activist, the convict and the death specialist.

Lessenberry's Politics and Prejudices column for next week's MT will reflect on Kevorkian's passing. In the meantime, here are his past columns grappling with Dr. K and the complicated issues he's raised.

2010 — Knowing Jack

2009 - I did know Jack

2008 - Dr. K's bad idea

2007 - Dr. K & other suicides

2006 - Dr. Death gets out of prison

2006 - The Supremes & assisted suicide

2002 - Kevorkian’s issue is still alive

2001 - Ashcroft vs. Constitution

1999 - Slippery slopes and other horrors

1998 - Time for our grim reaper