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John E. Gahringer Jr. ’48

Born in Oak Park, Illinois, to John and Alice Barclay-Gahringer, Jack moved with his mother to Wenatchee, Washington, when he was a year old to live with his grandfather while his father completed a medical residency. Jack graduated from Wenatchee High School in 1942. While at Reed, he was drafted for World War II, serving as the head medic in a field hospital in the Philippines for nine months and then in occupied Japan. When he returned home in 1946, he resumed his studies at the University of Washington and received his medical degree in 1952.

Jack joined his father’s medical practice in Wenatchee, Waterville, and Odessa, Washington, working as a family physician for 40 years. He served on many community boards and as treasurer for the American Medical Association. As a Boy Scout leader for more than 30 years, he received the Silver Beaver Award. While living in Odessa, he founded the Odessa Historisches Museum, and with his wife, Florence, was its curator for many years.

At the age of seven, Jack received a camera from an aunt and never stopped taking pictures, which he loved to develop by hand. It remained a hobby throughout his life. He was also an avid gardener, and growing flowers and vegetables was his main summer occupation in his adult years. He is survived by his daughters, Pamela Day, Michelle Taylor, and Rebecca Gahringer, and his son, Tracy Gahringer.

Appeared in Reed magazine: June 2018

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