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George Saari Obituary
He was born and raised in Hibbing, Minn., with his sister and twin brothers.
Saari's clinical roots go back to St. Olaf College in Minnesota and Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City. It was in New York that George married Anne Trygstad, with whom he moved to Seattle, Wash., to complete his medical residency. Together, Anne and George had three children, Hans, Per and Kristina.
After spending time on Bainbridge Island and in Scandinavia, the Trygstad-Saaris moved to Bozeman to be closer to the mountains and for George to begin practicing rheumatology. He took tremendous joy in working closely with his patients, feeling personally committed to sharing his wisdom and giving back to those in need.
George felt a special fondness for the Rocky Mountains and took every opportunity to spend time with his friends and family, backpacking, skiing, biking, and camping in the outdoors. A superior athlete, George competed regularly in long-distance running and Nordic skiing competitions –- activities he pursued with humor and an infectious level of energy.
George brought this same passion to the university classroom, where he taught medicine through the University of Washington Medical School at Montana State University. He received the University of Washington's Distinguished Teacher Award in 2003.
George was a proud supporter of his children and wife, fostering their endeavors and encouraging them to live their dreams. His family and friends will forever remember his brilliant wit, his love of cooking and gardening, his skill as a woodworker, and the kindness and love with which he approached his life.
Donations in George Saari's name may be made to the Hans Saari Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 10478, Bozeman, MT 59719. For those interested in supporting the Arthritis Foundation in George's honor, there will be a fundraising walk in Bozeman for the foundation on May 19.
A casual gathering of friends and family will take place between 3 and 5 p.m. Friday, March 30, at The Emerson Cultural Center in Bozeman. Please come and visit. A family memorial service will be held in June.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for George Saari
Clif Youmans
April 16, 2007
Dr. Saari was a kind, thoughful and caring physician and I was shocked and saddened to learn of his death. I was a patient for many years and I always felt I received Dr. Saari's full attention during the visit. He will certainly be greatly missed and my deepest sympathy goes out to his family and friends over such a great loss.
Tom Norris
April 4, 2007
I knew George well--both from my time practicing in Montana, and more recently for his work with our students. He was a fine man and a real advocate for the medical students. He will be missed.
Judy Jones
April 3, 2007
I was truely shocked & saddened by the death of Dr Saari. I don't think I have know a kinder, most caring Dr. who would take the time to explain everything in detail & help the most painful disease that he specialized in. I will truely miss him. My deepest sympathy to his family
Deborah Adragna
April 2, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Dr. Saari. I was a patient of his for only a short time, but trusted him completely. I will miss him greatly.
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Jennifer Grames
April 1, 2007
I am sorry to hear about your loss. Please accept my condolences to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Jennifer (granddaughter of Keith & Margaret Stoner)
Martha Hampson
March 31, 2007
Our deepest sympathy goes out to the family of Dr. George Saari. He was not only Bill's rheumatologist for over 20 years but he was our long time friend. We will miss him.
The Family of Bill Hampson
jan & rich ehrenkrook
March 31, 2007
we were patients of dr. saari. please except our sincere sympathy. dr. saari was one of the most caring doctors we have ever been to.a quality so rarely seen anymore. always making sure he could do everything possible to improve our quality of life. the encouragement he gave was what made us see light at the end of the tunnel. we will miss him deeply. truly he was one of a kind.
Jamie Wong
March 31, 2007
Dr. Saari was an incredibly talented and compassionate physician, mentor, and person. His lessons taught will never be forgotten, and his calming nature is something to be admired. He made a great impact on our education in Bozeman, and always reminded us to enjoy life and follow our passions. My sincere sympathy goes out to his friends and family.
Crystal Wheeling
March 30, 2007
I was a patient of Dr. Saari's for almost 9 years and must say that I was really surprised and sad when I learned that he died. He took such good care of me and gave me lots of encouragement! He was always so nice and pleasant that I found myself looking forward to my appointments with him. He was one of the few doctors who were interested in my life outside of my health problems which made me feel more like a person than just a medical case. I will miss him very much and know that no other Dr. will ever compare to the type of care Dr. Saari gave me.
Kevin Abate
March 30, 2007
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Noreen Vigil
March 30, 2007
Anne,Per,& Kristina
I will always be greatful for being touched by the lives of your family. Six eagles were soaring the other evening and I do believe George was one of them.
I'am sorry for your loss. Your Makah Family Noreen and family
bridger fergusson
March 30, 2007
we went to saari 4 years ago and he took care of me. becoming a good friend with out him i"d still be in bed and probably paralized for good.dr. saari was the best in his field and friend any kid like me could have.he got meback on my feet after being diagnosed with severe reumatoid arthitis. thank you dr. saari for being there for me. i will miss you forever. my friend.
peggy schlesinger
March 30, 2007
ann, per, kristina - we share in your grief over the loss of someone so very special. he was a good friend and colleague ever since our fellowship days in seattle. his sense of humor and his humility helped us laugh many times when crying was an equally reasonable option. his focus and determination was legendary as he left us weekend athletes eating his dust all too often. what a mensch - his song ended much too soon, as we had so much more to learn from him in this life.
Claire Sands Baker
March 29, 2007
Per, Kristina and Anne - I am very sorry for your loss. I wish you the best as you surround yourselves with your family and friends during this unbelievably difficult time. Much love, the Sands Family
Cole McGeshick
March 29, 2007
Dr. Saari was a great person and doctor. He was always very supportive to all his students and patients. I am lucky to have had him as a mentor and friend. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
-Cole McGeshick
Elisha Boussengui
March 29, 2007
Dr. Saari was a wonderful addition to the WWAMI program at MSU, bringing a certain calm and balance into the mix. He was an incredible support while I was experiencing my own family loss. His humor and selflessness were evident from the moment I met him, especially as he offered to carry my two year old on an orienteering adventure so I could participate! I am very sorry for your loss, for I know his death must leave a void in your lives, as it does in mine and in the community as a whole. He was the kind of doctor we all aspire to be. I hope we can live up to his legacy.
Leslie Barr
March 29, 2007
Dr. Saari recently helped my mom with her aching thumbs. She spoke very highly of her brief medical relationship with Dr. Saari, as he has helped her over the past month to gain use of her hands and to help her determine the cause of her joint discomfort. We are saddenned to hear the news of his passing and send our regards to Dr. Saari's family.
The Rev. John-David F. Simpson
March 28, 2007
Dr. George, a good man who deeply cared for others in the image of the Divine Physician.
His soul was full of compassion and it was my honor to have served with him.
In paradisum deducant te Angeli; in tuo adventu suscipiant te martyres, et perducant te in civitatem sanctam Jerusalem. Chorus angelorum te suscipiat, et Lazaro quondam paupere aeternam habeas requiem.
("May angels lead you into Paradise; may the martyrs receive you at your coming and lead you to the holy city of Jerusalem. May a choir of angels receive you, and with Lazarus, who once was poor, may you have eternal rest.")
Beth & Mike Overly
March 28, 2007
We are very saddened to learn of Dr. Saari's passing. His wit, wisdom, and love of life have been an inspiration. We feel honored to have known him, as well as having had him as our physician. He touched countless many lives and will be greatly missed.
Becki Casey
March 28, 2007
I was very saddened to hear of Dr. Saari's untimely passing. He truly was a kind and compassionate Doctor; he was such an encouragemnet to me over the years. My prayers & thoughts go to his family. Be proud as you read of the many ways in which he touched so many people's lives.
Bette Wheeling
March 28, 2007
I was so sorry to learn of the death of Dr. Saari. He has treated my daughter for the past almost 9 years. He always took such a personal interest in her as a person and not just a patient. I will always remember his kindness, his smile and warm caring eyes. He will be greatly missed. Our prayers will be with you through this difficult time.
Lisa Burk
March 28, 2007
I have been a patient of Dr. Saari here in Bozeman for 22 years and I can't even begin to explain the profound effect that losing him will have on me. I am so, so very sorry for your loss. I've never known a more professional, yet compassionate, understanding, wonderful human being and physician than Dr. Saari. He was a dear friend that I will for the rest of my life credit with making my life great. I am praying for you each day hoping that you get through this with many, many fond memories as I will. He was simply wonderful.
Chris and Gerri Marchion
March 28, 2007
We were fortunate to meet Dr. Saari through our daughter's participation in the WWAMI program. We are grateful for the tremendous influence he had on Christina and all of the medical students involved in this program. We extend our sympathies to his family, friends, and associates.
Christina Marchion
March 28, 2007
I am deeply saddened by the loss of such an inspirational friend and teacher. Dr. Saari touched many with his compassion, kindness and gentle wisdom. I feel blessed to have had him as a mentor and will take his spirit with me forever as an aspiring physician.
Deepest sympathy to his family and all who share in this grief.
Penny and Bruce Jones
March 28, 2007
Most sincere condolences to Dr. Saari's family at this shocking time for them. He was very kind to us as a RA consultant and we will miss his professional and compassionate care.
Rob Amrine
March 28, 2007
I am deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Saari's passing. His influence on me, both as an individual and an aspiring physician, is present daily. The wisdom he possessed and shared with me and so many other fortunate Montana WWAMI medical students has made paramount the humanity involved in our lives and our interactions with our patients. I will forever remember the sanctity of the patient's bed, the symbolism of the physician's white coat, and the proper use of Klister on a spring day at Bohart. I thank you Dr. Saari for encouraging, supporting, and befriending me during the past 4 years.
Peter O'Reilly, M.D.
March 27, 2007
Barbara and I send our deep condolences to Ann and family. George was a very dedicated physician. I am so saddened to hear of his passing.
Gloria Larson
March 27, 2007
Dr. Saari gave his patients excellent and compassionate care. I appreciated working with him during my employment at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital. I am thankful for his wisdom and concern when consulting about my daughter's illness.
My prayers and sympathy are with you.
Michelle Jackson
March 27, 2007
I am still in shock and much grief after hearing of Dr. Saari's passing. He saved my life. I was very ill, had gangrene fingers, and hopeless. Dr. Saari diagnosed and took care of me;I felt like I was one of his own. He was gentle, dedicated, and had the best smile. I am aware of all the many things he did on this earth, and am convinced he is doing the same in the after life. May God bless his family, loved ones and most of all Dr. Saari and his great legacy. Thank you George, I will miss you!!
Erika Goldstein
March 27, 2007
We were so deeply sadden to learn of George's passing. I consider it my great fortune to have had him as a colleague for more than a decade in his role as the director of the introduction to clinical medicine course, and WWAMI Associate Director at MSU. His gentle humor, honesty, compassion and dedication to excellence made him a wonderful role model for the students and a valued friend. He will be dearly missed by all of us. My family and I send deepest condolences for your loss.
Pam Nielsen
March 27, 2007
Dr.Saari was a very kind and compassionate Doctor,he will be greatly missed. Sincerely, Pam Nielsen Dillon, Mt
Kendra Wiggins
March 27, 2007
Dr. Saari was very dear to us all, as a physician, mentor and friend. His kindness, gentleness, and humor are an inspiration to all who had the privelege of being his student.
Ron Loge
March 27, 2007
Like everyone who knew George, I was shocked to hear of his untimely death. George has invited me to participate in his ICM course every year for the last 20 some years. We shared many patients and worked closely on ACP medical meetings over the years. My daughter, Anna, now a UW internal medicine R-3, took great inspiration from George when she took her first year in Bozeman. I remember her remarking that he was their first role model as first year medical students and she still tries to emulate him when caring for patients using his special skills of kindness, quietness and caring. All of our feelings for George ran deeply -- not just great respect and admiration as a teacher and clinician but as a man who brought balance and humanity to everyone whom he knew. Anna spoke of the personal tragedy of the death of your son and how their class bought a tree to memorialize him. George often mentioned how that touched him, but their sensitivity came about because he touched and influenced those students so profoundly. His passing is such a great loss to you and the community of Montana and WWAMI, but I know his legacy of caring and excellence will carry on in all with whom he worked and to whom he taught. With deepest condolences, Ron Loge MD, Dillon MT
Leslee Kane
March 27, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the Saari family for your loss. Dr. Saari was a great teacher to many young physicians in training, including myself. His passion for medicine shall be carried forth by those of us he taught.
ANGELA ROGERS
March 27, 2007
I HAVE WORKED AT THE HOSPITAL FOR MANY YEARS NEAR DR SAARI AND HE HAS ALSO BEEN MY DOCTOR. I HAVE NEVER KNOWN A KINDER MAN, AND I HAVE TOLD THAT TO MY CO-WORKERS MANY TIMES. WHAT A LOSS TO THE WORLD. MY REGRETS TO YOU ALL.
David Durack
March 27, 2007
I feel fortunate that I had the opportunity to spend some time with George in his beloved great outdoors many years ago - a short experience, but still well remembered, and his company still warmly appreciated. My thoughts are with his family.
Jillene Casey
March 27, 2007
I am deeply saddened by Dr. Saari’s death. My heart goes out to his family.
Last year I had the opportunity to get to know him as a mentor and teacher. I also considered him a friend. His patience and kindness was appreciated by both his patients and his students, and I will never forget the awe I felt observing and learning from him in the clinic. He was never too busy to sit down and listen and offer warm words. A role model in every sense, he inspired me to become a better clinician, runner, and human.
The community truly lost one of the best, he will be missed.
Sincerely,
Jillene Casey
Fred Richtsmeier
March 27, 2007
Ann, I'm very sorry for your loss.
Patricia Henry (nee Bryson)
March 27, 2007
I'm forever grateful to Dr. Saari for the care he has provided for my father and mother. His tremendous empathy and skill made such a difference to my family. He was kind,humble and humorous, traits that are especially comforting when people are sick and stressed out. He will truly be missed.
JoJo & Joe Skinner
March 27, 2007
Our sympathy to Anne and the family. He was a great Dr. and one who was always willing to listen and learn.
He will be greatly missed. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Anything we can do just call.
susan newell
March 27, 2007
Dear Friends,
It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of George. I have very fond memories of your whole family and our times in Bozeman. He was a wonderful role model.
With deepest sympathy,
Susan Newell, Isami and China Ching
John Matthews MD
March 27, 2007
George Saari was one of the several outstanding physicians at Bozeman Deacones Hospital. He was a doctors physician. He contributed his knowledge and passion to the efforts of making the hospital the finest establishment given its great potential. I believe he was able to accomplish this with his unfailing committee efforts.
He was a fine man, a great friend of nature, a true friend in every sense, a wonderful dedicated individual to health care of the community, a breath of fresh air to medical education, and he was my physician. I will truely miss him.
Andrea Johnstone
March 27, 2007
Bill and I want the family to know how very sorry we are and if there is anything we can do, please let us know. Andrea and Bill Johnstone
Doug Badenoch
March 27, 2007
George was a true gentleman and I will miss him. My deepest sympathy goes out to Ann.
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