Resident of Los Altos Hills Born in 1941 and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Gary passed away October 22, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and dedication. From an early age, Gary was determined to become a heart surgeon, a dream that began as he helped his mother with sewing, deftly mending with both hands. Surrounded by a loving family who encouraged his passions, Gary pursued his aspirations with relentless commitment.
After graduating from Cleveland Heights High School, he attended Dartmouth College, proudly joining the class of 1963. Gary furthered his education at Northwestern University Medical School, earning his medical degree in 1966. His post-graduate training took place at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic, where he completed both his internship and residency in Cardio and Thoracic Surgery.
In 1973, Gary embarked on a fulfilling career in private practice in San Jose, California. He became an integral part of the medical staff at O’Connor Hospital, where he founded the heart surgery program in 1974. Over three decades as a surgeon, Gary transformed countless lives, embodying his belief that medicine is the combination of science and art.
Beyond his medical career, Gary was deeply committed to his community. He joined the Rotary Club of San Jose in 1980, where he earned recognition as an SJ Endowment Fellow, a Paul Harris Fellow, and served as President from 1993-1994. One of his most impactful contributions through Rotary was the Adult Gift of Life Program, which was founded 1985. This unique initiative focused on providing life-saving cardiac surgeries for needy, qualified adult patients from third world countries.
Outside of his professional and community endeavors, his adventurous spirit took him to over 20 countries, each journey enriching his life. Gary cherished simple pleasures. He enjoyed playing tennis and softball, skiing, fly fishing, cycling, and relaxing with agood book in the sun.
Gary always prioritized his family, and he is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, two sons, two daughters-in-law, and three cherished grandchildren. His kindness, dedication, and zest for life will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held for Gary at Temple Beth Am in Los Altos Hills at 10am on November 10th.