Robert Howard Janowsky

With Profound Sorrow i announce the peaceful transition of Robert Howard Janowsky, 82, on March 10, 2025, in Wellington, Florida.

Born on June 18, 1942, in New York City to Meyer & Adele Janowsky, Robert was raised in Brooklyn, where he attended high school before continuing his education at Brooklyn College. His early years were shaped by family and community.

Robert's professional journey was as unique as it was impactful. He began his career as a dealer with Mal de Mer Enterprises & Instructor of Tai Chi then went on to found MDM Shells, Stones & Books—an enterprise that became the premier source for publications on shells, shell collecting, mollusks, and malacology in the United States. Through this venture, Robert established himself as a leading authority in the field. His expertise led him to travel extensively across the globe to identify, authenticate, and broker rare specimen seashells.

Among his most notable achievements was rediscovering and finding the first live specimen of *Murex phyllopterus* Lamarck—a significant contribution to marine biology. His scholarly work included numerous articles for the New York Shell Club, and he served as a judge at multiple shell shows throughout Florida. As a dedicated member of Conchologists of America, Robert helped shape the standards and appreciation for shell collecting nationwide.

Alongside his wife of 21 years, JuYing Janowsky of Wellington, Florida, he also sold precious stones imported from China—blending their mutual interests into a meaningful livelihood.

Robert is survived by JuYing ; his daughter Melanie R. Correa (Janowsky) and his Son-In-Love Fernando of Avon Park, Florida; two stepsons, Robert Dorsey Jr. and Raymond Dorsey Sr.; and former brother-in-law Mark Fuster. He was predeceased by his parents Meyer and Adele Janowsky and his sister Andrea Fuster.


We mourn his passing but celebrate a life lived with purpose, curiosity, and generosity. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who follow in his footsteps.