César Roux of Lausanne, Switzerland, typified the pioneers in surgery at the turn of the nineteenth century. He was inspired by his mentor Theodor Kocher of Berne and the surgeons Theodor Billroth and Richard von Volkmann. Although he is best known for the Roux-en-Y loop, the first esophagojejunostomy and the first adrenalectomy are also evidence of his innovative approach to operative surgery. Despite his many contributions and honors he remained a surgeon in the field. His exemplary career is recalled here.