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Joe Prendergast Obituary
May 4, 1937 - April 21, 2020
Palo Alto
John Joseph Prendergast quietly passed away April 21, 2020 at his Palo Alto home. Dr. Prendergast lived in Palo Alto for over 50 years and was a renowned endocrinologist, known for his supportive and gentle manner with his diabetic patients. Dr. Joe believed that medicine was best practiced when patients understood that they could make changes in their lives and behaviors that would improve their health and he told his patients that "it is your time." He was unmistakably compassionate, caring, and successful.
Joe was born in Michigan, grew up on a farm, went to college at Williams College in Massachusetts, and studied medicine at Wayne State in Detroit and UCSF in San Francisco. An extremely dedicated and hard-working physician, he practiced in Redwood City and Palo Alto for over 50 years, retiring in 2014. Joe was a sportsman who played and captained his high school football and baseball teams. He was a dedicated father.
Joe is survived by Marlene, his wife of 58 years; by his children Patrick (Colette) living in Seattle and his daughter Peggy (Roy) living in San Carlos; by his grandchild Owen; by his sister Mary; and by his brother Robert.
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Memories and Condolences
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Sponsored by San Jose Mercury News.
Carol Ann Fell
September 16, 2025
I met Dr Prendergast at a conference in the UK about a brilliant Synergy PROARGI-9+ food supplement. I still take this supplement every day. Thank you for your brilliant work creating this product.
cait maynard
April 13, 2021
Thank you for your work, Dr. Prendergrast. Bon Voyage. CM
Judy Lloyd
September 29, 2020
Amazing Doctor ,wonderful person
Judy Lloyd
September 29, 2020
Amazing doctor, wonderful person he will be missed !!!
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Lee Brenner
July 10, 2020
He eas a kind gentla soul who wanted to make a poditive difference in his patient's lives! Lee Brenner
robert luhrs
June 30, 2020
Dr. Joe's youtube videos helped me to treat my own heart artery issues using the knowledge he shared with the World. I was able to do this without drugs or surgery, not even a stent. I'm sure he'd be pleased his efforts are having an effect that is totally unique and a real miracle. A very uncommon doctor, indeed! I've shared it widely, too, so we keep going towards health, away from sickness. Thanks, Dr. Joe Bob Luhrs, Redmond, WA, USA
Diana Dalton
June 2, 2020
thank you for letting us know about l arginine and l cituline it is helping my hubby! your work lives on!
Harvey & Joan Schick
May 22, 2020
Dr. Joe was a most caring, sharing person! We Purchased and distributed his Book, (The Uncommon Doctor) through our network marketing business. He also obliged his attendance at several of our Canadian marketing meetings. We met him over 20 years ago and always looked forward to the next time we met. He was a truly inspiring Person! We give our condolences to the family!
Harvey & Joan Schick
Regina, Canada
Michael MD
May 19, 2020
I was very sorry to hear about Joe's passing. He was a great man and an outstanding colleague. I hope he had a great retirement. His dedication to the good of all of those he treated was outstanding and his kindness is a testimony to his desire to live in a state of perpetual kindness.
May 5, 2020
My condolences to the family . May you find comfort in your treasured memories and Gods promise to return our loved ones . 1st Thessalonians 4 : 13 & 14 .
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