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BORN
1945
DIED
2023
FUNERAL HOME
Jack Gratch Obituary
June 20, 1945 - March 29, 2023
Fort Worth, Texas - Dr. Jack Orrin Gratch passed away March 29. He was 77
A Service for Dr. Gratch will be held at 2 pm Sunday, April 2, in the Kornbleet Memorial Chapel, located in Ahavath Sholom Cemetery, 411 N. University Drive.
Born in Philadelphia, PA, Jack was the son of Tessie and Irvin Gratch. The oldest of four siblings, he was raised in a home above his father's pharmacy, which shaped his interest in medicine and ultimately led to his life's work. Jack attended Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science for his undergraduate degree and later graduated from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1974.
He moved his young family to Fort Worth in 1980, and his love of Fort Worth led to the future relocation of Jack's parents and two siblings' families to the area. He practiced nephrology for over 50 years and taught at Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine. His colleagues, patients, and students will remember his exceptional care, brilliant mind, unyielding demeanor, and black hospital scrubs.
A proud Philadelphian, Jack had a deep love for all things Philly – the history, the cheesesteaks, but especially, the Eagles. He shared his father's passion for sports cars and believed that the most meaningful conversations were to be shared over a good meal and an even better bottle of wine.
Above all, Jack's most fulfilling accomplishment was being a father. He never missed one of his boys' sporting events, even when they were in the northeast for college, and instilled in them a sense of discipline and determination that will live on through his legacy.
He was preceded in death by his parents and twin stillborn sons.
In addition to his loving partner in life and work, Denise Mueller, Jack is survived by his devoted sons, Brian and his wife, Amie and Michael and his wife, Megan; four beautiful granddaughters, Emmery, Sydney, Isla, and Carys; former spouse and mother of his children, Donna Gratch; brothers, Steven and his wife, Frances, and David and his wife, Lori; sister, Barbara Schuman and her husband, Larry; and numerous other family members and friends.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, for those who wish are make contributions in his memory, the family suggests A Wish with Wings, a charity that Jack was proud to be involved with later in life. Donations can be made at awww.org/donate.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jack Gratch
Sponsored by the Star-Telegram.
Cody and Bonnie Black
October 14, 2024
So very heartbroken to learn of Jack's death. My husband knew his during his paramedic days, and always had such kind remarks about him and his staff. I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Gratch at OMCT, then at Plaza Medical. Each time meeting him I learned more and more from him. A great teacher, and a very kind gentleman. My most sincere sympathy to Denise.
Cody and Bonnie Black
Eileen Vigdor {GRASHEIM}
March 25, 2024
A bright and funny class mate!
Eliza and Adelmo Banchetti
March 25, 2024
We miss you Doc.
Carolyn Quist, DO
March 25, 2024
I was a student at TCOM where Jack taught me the physiology of the kidneys and how important they are. He was brilliant and caring and had high demands on his students but it´s because he loved his work and the patients he treated and wanted to pass that knowledge on. I will be forever grateful for his teaching. I am so sorry for your loss. Tanchumin
Lisa Gail Blevins
May 16, 2023
My mother, Melba Bettencourt, was a patient of Dr. Gratch from 1989 until her passing in 2006, and she was on dialysis all of those years.
Mom and I both respected Dr. Gratch so much and I wanted to express my condolences to his family.
Thank you for the care of my mom!
Michael J. Slavin
April 22, 2023
I trained with Jack, and while I hadn´t seen him in several decades his passing has caused me a great deal of sorrow. I share many memories. He was certainly one of a kind with an absolutely amazing sense of humor. My deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones.
Michael Slavin
Carolyn W Quist, DO
April 8, 2023
Jack was an excellent teacher and physician and I learned a lot of physiology under him at TCOM. His legacy will go on through the students and residents he trained. Go in peace, Jack
Carolyn Quist, DO
Marilyn Kepner
April 6, 2023
Denise and the Gratch Family- I first met Dr Gratch in 1984 when I worked at TCOM Internal Medicine Department. There I became aware of his goal of excellence in patient care. He was tough but he was appreciative of a job well done and believe me I explained to a few nurses if you do the job right, you will earn his trust and respect. From a Pittsburgh Girl- I could always appreciate this Philly guy. Hopefully you all have wonderful memories to carry you through
Marv Waxman
April 3, 2023
My best friend throughout high school. We were in the band and each of us worked at a drug store. Another great guy lost.
Marv Waxman
Friend
Carl A Hoffman
April 3, 2023
Classmates at Rhawnhurst Elementary school in 6th grade!
Friends thru NE HIGH.
Lost touch over the years but always reconnected at reunions over a few drinks old memories and LOT of laughter!!
Your husband, dad ,brother uncle and grandfather was really good guy!
Warren and Diane Halper
April 3, 2023
Jack, Irwin Gratz and I, Warren Halper were classmates who did not get together too much. However, we did enjoy an occasional pinochle game and pizza. I ended going to Drexel in Philly and then NC State for grad school where I met my Tarheel wife and only visit Philly for special occasions. I, too am a lifelong Eagles fan. Our sincere best wishes for Jack's kids. Warren & Diane Halper, Hendersonville NC
Robert Gussick
April 2, 2023
From my home at Tyson and bustleton I walked to school every day. Jack was one of the people that joined us on the walk to Wilson and later Norheast. I remember that he was in my home room from 7th thru 12th grades
Eileen Vigdor nee GRASHEIM
April 2, 2023
FRIENDLY, WITTY AND CLEVER CLASS-MATE!
Charles Andrews
April 2, 2023
Friend, colleague
Vince Clark Sr.
April 1, 2023
My deepest condolences to Dr.Gratch's family, this man, Sir, and Gentleman thought me about dialysis, Great food, and How to buy a vehicle and most of all how you conduct yourself!
Debbie "Amos" Lolless, LVN
April 1, 2023
Prayers for his family and sorry for their loss. I enjoyed working with him during my many years at OMCT. Great physician who provided excellent care to his patients.
Pavani Bellary Brooks
April 1, 2023
I enjoyed learning, working, and sharing a meal with you! RIP Dr. Gratch.
Raj R
March 31, 2023
Sorry to hear
Prayers to the family
Brenda Aleman
March 31, 2023
Sorry to hear of Dr. Gratch passing. We worked together many years. Was tough at first but we was a team for our patients. Great man and excellent physician. Also prayers go out to Denise and family.
Eliza and Adelmo Banchetti
March 31, 2023
We are saddened and shocked to hear of Dr. Gratch´s passing. We were looking for his phone number, online, and to see that he passed 3 days ago. We are truly sorry . He will always be in our hearts. What a wonderful human being. Great loss. Prayers to the family.
Tom (Murph) Murphy
March 31, 2023
Rest in peace Dr Gratch ! You were a good guy and an out of the box thinker when it came to your patients . I thoroughly enjoyed working for you . And we had Philly in common !
Mo Rezaie, DO, HMDC, FACOI
March 31, 2023
One of the greatest teachers I had in my early medical career. The osteopathic medical community has lost one of the best.
Eric Solomon, DO
March 30, 2023
Dr. Gratch was a truly dedicated physician & teacher! He served as a fine role model for medical students, interns & residents. His meticulous care of his patients has had a huge influence on how I care for patients to this day!
Carole Ogram
March 30, 2023
May his memory be for a blessing.
Judy Youngs
March 30, 2023
a Wish with Wings is thankful for the friendship and support we received from Dr. Gratch over the past years. We are especially grateful to his family for suggesting donations in lieu of flowers. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you as we honor the memory and legacy of this great man.
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