John Francis McGonigle, M.D., a pioneer in the field of orthopedics and a former longtime resident of Pacific Palisades, passed away at his cattle ranch in Cathey’s Valley, California, on April 15. He was 78. Born in Kansas City, McGonigle graduated from Herington High School in Kansas in 1943. His fond memories of Herington included the Union Pacific Railroad, where his father worked as an engineer, and reading every volume in the public library. In July 1946, John graduated from Central Missouri State College and, two years later, received his doctor of medicine degree at St. Louis University in June 1948. John enlisted in the Navy in January 1943 at the age of 17 and received an honorable discharge in May 1946. In October 1950, after the Korean War broke out, he enlisted in the Army Medical Corps and distinguished himself by meritorious service as a surgeon from June 1951 to February 1952. He was assigned to the Mobile Arms Surgical Hospital (MASH) and completed his service as a major. John was awarded the Bronze Star for his service in Korea. The citation for the Bronze Star reads in part: ‘Despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Captain McGonigle insured prompt and comfortable evacuation of battle casualties, and his broad professional knowledge and rare initiative enhanced the morale and efficiency of the unit. Faced with the problem of constant exposure of troops to communicable diseases, Captain McGonigle instituted an educational program designed to inform personnel of necessary preventive measures. When the station in direct support of forward elements of the regiment was brought under enemy fire, Captain McGonigle, disregarding personal safety, ordered personnel to pull back while he helped the wounded to foxholes where he treated them. Captain McGonigle’s consummate devotion to duty resulted in the saving of numerous lives, and his notable achievements reflected credit on himself and the military service.’ Following his service in Korea, John completed his internship in San Diego and did his residency in orthopedics at County Hospital/USC. He practiced as an orthopedic surgeon at St. John’s Hospital in Santa Monica for more than 30 years. In addition to his work as a surgeon, John was a real estate developer, art collector, owner of an air charter company, and racer of thoroughbred horses. He moved to his ranch in Cathey’s Valley in 1986. John’s single greatest attribute was his generosity. He was willing to help anyone. His drive was extraordinary; he worked at a pace few could maintain, and used his success to help countless people in need. In addition, he had a great sense of humor and a very dry wit. John was the father of 14 children with his wife of nearly 40 years, Virginia, who still lives in Santa Monica. He was preceded in death by two daughters, Kathleen Ann and Molly Diane. His surviving children are Martha Marie Ehrhart, Mary Helen, John Francis, Michael Joseph, Nancy Ann, Susan Wenner (Peter), Ann Theresa Kruse (Frank), Timothy Desiderio (Hilda), Thomas Patrick (Tracy), Patrick James, Theresa Raphael, and Virginia Ann. His grandchildren are Kevin Ehrhart (Heather), Susan Ehrhart, Matthew Ehrhart, Christopher Wenner, Billy Wenner, P.J. Wenner, Matthew Wenner, Kenneth Kruse, Patrick Kruse, Sean McGonigle, Kelly McGonigle, Molly McGonigle, Rory McGonigle, Noreen McGonigle, Colin McGonigle, and Brendan McGonigle. His great-grandchildren are Alexandra Ehrhart and Brendan Ehrhart. He is also survived by his second wife, Vi McGonigle. As a member of what has come to be known as America’s ‘Greatest Generation,’ John was a devoted Catholic, a consummate American patriot, a loyal family man, a cowboy at heart, and a truly magnanimous individual. In lieu of flowers, contributions in John McGonigle’s name can be sent to Loyola High School Scholarship Fund, 1901 Venice Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90006.
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