Markus John Potter Kruesi, M.D.

Markus John Potter Kruesi, M.D., 75, passed peacefully at home in Isle of Palms, SC on December 30, 2024. 

Born Oct. 14, 1949 in New York City to Dr. Oscar and Elizabeth Nott Potter Kruesi, Dr. Markus Kruesi was a renowned child psychiatrist and teacher, graduating from Columbia College and later Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. 

Dr. Kruesi dedicated his career to bettering the mental health of children, serving as a Professor in Psychiatry and Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). Prior to that Kruesi was Director of the Institute for Juvenile Research and Head of the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Illinois and conducted important research at the National Institute of Mental Health. Kruesi was the author of over 100 publications, and he was repeatedly chosen by his peers as one of the Best Doctors in the United States. 

Markus was devoted to his family and proud of his heritage. He was a direct descendant of Philip Livingston, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and John Kruesi, who helped build Edison’s Machine Works and the General Electric Company.

In his free time Markus was an excellent chef; he enjoyed entertaining his brothers and sisters, children, grandchildren and countless nieces, nephews, and friends. He loved firework shows, autocross racing, traveling around the world with Mary Alice and spending time with his beloved grandchildren. 

Markus is survived by his cherished wife of 52 years Mary Alice (née Cryns), his daughters Claire Dwyer (John) of Winnetka, IL, Margaretta Kruesi (Patrick Callahan) of Sullivan's Island, SC, and his son Zachary Kruesi (Caitlin) of Franklin, TN and seven grandchildren: Jack, Teddy, Delancey, Henry, Wesley, Penelope, and Hans.

Above all, Markus was known for his genuine kindness and thoughtful acts; he was a true gentleman until the end.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations can be made to Reading Partners of South Carolina.

Celebration of life to follow.  Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. Mount Pleasant Chapel. A memorial message may be sent to the family on our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.

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