William Ward Bock

1925 - 2013

Bock, William Ward SAN DIEGO -- William Ward Bock MD passed away on December 8, 2013. He was a remarkable man and will be sorely missed by all that knew him. He is survived by his wife Marjorie, older brother Frederick; sons William Ward Bock Jr. and Bruce D. Bock MD; step- children Donna Christenson Jander and Thomas Christenson and a total of eight grandchildren. "Ward" as he was usually referred to, was born July 5, 1925 in St. Paul, Minnesota to Marion (Garland) and Frederick Bock and grew up during The Depression. He was an accomplished all state football player in his high school years and entered the University of Minnesota in 1941 as a pre-med student. On an accelerated schedule he graduated medical school, also at University of Minnesota in 1947 at which time he married Judith Duerr, mother to his two sons. He completed his internship at Good Samaritan Hospital in Portland, Oregon and began a general practice in Everett, Washington until 1952 at which time he entered the Air Force as Captain, serving until 1954 at Ladd Air Force base near Fairbanks, Alaska. Upon discharge he took up an Orthopedic residency at the University of Utah which he completed in 1957. The call "Go West Young Man" lured Dr. Bock and his family to San Diego in 1958. Ward built a highly successful practice in the Clairemont/Mission Bay area, retiring in 1985. Dr. Bock served thousands of patients during his career and was viewed as a kind, compassionate and skilled surgeon. It was not uncommon to encounter strangers he worked on around town, all with stories to tell about how Ward had fixed that arm, shoulder or leg. He was recognized for excellence by his peers, serving as Chief of Staff, Chief of Surgery and Chief of Orthopedics at both Clairemont General Hospital and later Mission Bay Memorial Hospital multiple times during his career. During this period he was divorced and in 1974 married Marjorie Christenson with whom he stayed until his passing. Ward was passionate about sports, the out of doors and family. He was an avid softball player, ping pong player, camper, skier, hiker and Chargers fan, holding tickets since 1961. He enjoyed sports heartily until he could no longer, then contented himself with painting and being close to loved ones. Along the way he managed to instill in his extended family a respect for nature, especially the mountains. He loved Mammoth Lakes and Colorado, hosting each wave of grandchildren to the thrill of annual trips to dude ranches, skiing and fishing trips. He so touched the heart of the Colorado ranch operators that they dedicated a riding-hiking trail in his honor, upon which his ashes will be scattered so he may lie under the trees, stars and towering peaks for eternity. Ward was serious about family ties. He and Marjorie constantly hosted events to bring the family together on a regular basis. Often times, Ward would do something zany, like dressing up, telling corny jokes or reciting poetry. It wasn't always funny though. Ward had a deeply emotional side to him that came shining through and he leaves pieces of his wisdom, warmth and sincerity with all that knew him, not just family. He will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace Ward. Contributions in Ward's name may be made to Sharp HospiceCare Fund of the Grossmont Hospital Foundation.