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John Kerr Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for John Kerr
Kiley Allen
December 13, 2022
I just wanted to take the time and thank Dr. Kerr. I was a student at Kerr elementary from 2000 to 2006. And in 2007 my younger brother and I were one of the students who played the Kerr school song and his funeral.
Dr.Kerr was an amazing man. I remember all the children being so excited when he would visit our school. He would do special activities with us and make sure every child was cared for.
My favorite memory to this day was when he showed us how the heart worked for science class. And how he would give high fives and shake our hands when we saw him or received an award.
My mom worked at the Child Crisis Center and Dr. Kerr would sometimes be there too and I just remember him being like every child's grandpa.
He also made sure I was doing okay while my dad was deployed sortly after 9/11. And though mentally I was having a hard time, his kindness and care had helped get me through.
Thank you Dr. Kerr for your compassion. You definitely made my childhood bright. You're a very dear person to me.
Kiley Allen, 29, Past Kerr Coyote
John Kerr
August 24, 2017
Michael if you get on here again. Grandma (Betty John's Kerr) is still alive and living up in northern AZ with her last remaining son nearby. If you'd like to reach out I'm her grandson named after Dr. John Kerr he was a great man and a humble man.
michael johns
July 18, 2017
As I read the heart warming story of Doctor John K Kerr: The stories of dedication to patients and families, the contributions to the life's of others, a commitment to the saving of life's, it simply touch my heart and spirit. Too see the names of his children and others that represent the new foot prints of the future is simply impressive.
I am Michael K Johns the Grandson of Robert Jacob Johns, (Chandler AZ) who is the brother of Harvey Johns, who is the father of Betty Johns Kerr, Harvey Johns is my great uncle. I never met Betty that I can remember, but she new my father and mother I am sure. My father served 30 years in the United States Army and we did not return home to the states until 1962. Our last duty post was at Fort Huachuca AZ and my father retired in 1967, and we returned to Scottsdale AZ, a family of four sisters and myself.
I had been working on my family's ancestry line on many sides of the family, I had seen hundreds of names, but for some reason Betty's name and her unknown history continue in my memory. The other night I woke up and decided to resolve the issue and I worked late into the morning hours, and what a discover and story. No wonder she was on my mine, there was a great story and life history of two wonderful people who made a difference in the world and life's of others.
God Bless You Doctor John K. Kerr for your gift of giving and serving.
Respectively: Michael K. Johns and family
John Kerr-Mellott
April 30, 2015
Grandpa,
Thanks for all the wonderful memories. You and Grandma have always been amazing. I really miss you and your guidance along with your loving smile and gentleness. I am blessed that we still have grandma here with us, but her health is getting worse as she is getting older. I know when she passes and goes to heaven with you the family will have lost a huge part of itself. Losing you was extremely difficult to bear but losing grandma also will be devastating to know that both of you will then be gone. You two allowed for so many things for all of us. The chances we had the opportunities you gave us and the love you showed for your family has been amazing. I know having you in heaven that I have one of the best guardian angels looking out for me. Grandpa I miss and love you so much just the thought of you being gone still brings me to tears and then having grandma health and not knowing how much longer she'll will be around makes it even more difficult. I miss you and love you.
David Schultz
October 26, 2013
Dr. John Kerr helped us through 4 children. One little girl,Diane became ill with limphoblastic cancer, and he together with the City of Hope, helped to make her last two years of life as comfortable as possible. Our last daughter, now 32, living in Florida, also was cared for in a loving way from infancy till we moved away, by Dr. Kerr. Might there be any records left of our last girl Sarah's birth date and time? Who might have that? Loving memories of Dr. John Kerr.
Lisa Weiner
February 12, 2013
To John Kerr,
You were a great actor. You did a great job in the movie South Pacific. My prayers are with you Mr. Kerr. Lisa Weiner
Tina Clark (Harry)
May 16, 2009
I just learned of Dr. Kerr's passing. He saved my life when I was 6 years old and I'll never forget him. His daughter Susan was a classmate that we all loved. I only wish I had a Dr. today as wonderful as I remember Dr. Kerr.
Leslie Sezate
October 26, 2008
The following information was submitted by Leslie Sezate, the Physician's Assistant at Mesa Pediatrics Professional Association in May 2007 as a remembrance. Individual staff members wrote random thoughts about Dr. Kerr. However, these thoughts were never typed into the Memory Book until after a member of the staff recently typed a few of the following quotes:
"He was happiest when serving."
When he went to a meeting the office staff would beg him not to volunteer but he always come back with a new assignment.
One of his nurses: Never one time did he say "no" to an extra patient. Many times he ate lunch at his desk. No matter how late a patient called he never refused. The staff (me) did, but he'd raise his fist in the air and chant "Service to mankind" and he meant it. I wanted to strangle him!
Service was not a decision with him--it was who he was. He assumed those around him would do the same. He and Betty were a perfect match!
In the early days of his practice there were migrant workers who came to Arizona for certain crops. They returned year after year at the same time. Of course they had no phones so they couldn't call for appointments. One afternoon a boy was brought in by his father with an injured leg--xray indicated a fracture. Dr. Kerr cast it. By then it was late after dark and the family had no ride home so I took them home. It was impossible to be around him and not serve!
He made a friend of everyone--staff, parents, children. He cared about them. He sang in the halls, he would dance a jig when someone would ask him if he was tired, refused to learn the combination of outside doors, would kick to get in.
When someone called to ask him if a school could be named for him he repeated over and over again and again--"I'm so embarassed. Then he asked if the name could be the John and Betty Kerr School. Then he finally said "let me talk it over with Betty". He loved his school. At the dedication he said he'd like to be buried on the playground. Jerry Boyd, who was on the City Council at the time said maybe it could be done!
Whenever he meet a new staff member he would roar, "I'm the meanest--you need to do what I say". He couldn't scare even the newest and youngest.
He was in charge of the office thermostat. He had no body fat as some of the others of us did--he was always cold. He wrote a long epistole about how this should be handled and said he was the only one in charge.
When Dr. Kerr and Dr. Brown decided a nurse practioner would be a good addition to their practice Dr. Kerr had only one concern. He said by 6 months the baby and mother were generally his friends. All of his patients and their families were his friends. The nurses and aides at the hospital were his friends. He rejoiced with them in the good times, wept with them in the bad. It didn't matter if the family was a migrant worker's family or a college professor's. He attended funerals of our patients which gave great comfort to the families.
He would make house calls and more than a few times he would rock a child to sleep as he watched TV with the family.
To end: Again, "He was happiest when serving".
Sam Kerr
June 18, 2007
Grandpa Kerr, May 24, 2007
We gather together this morning in May to celebrate the man. John Keith Kerr, M.D., my grandfather was known by many and by many names. He was Dr. Kerr to some, others knew him as John. He was known as a son and a father. The man I knew and loved will always be Grandpa to me. When I was younger my cousins and I spent the majority of our free time with our grandparents. I couldn't wait for the trips to Mexico or spending the summers in San Diego with them.
Usually my Grandmother was too busy house-keeping so Grandpa would take us down to the beach. Sorry Grandma, we knew we could help with the chores more. My Grandpa had no problem keeping up with us-- whether it was playing on Sandy Beach in Mexico or boggy boarding the waves in 60 degree water in San Diego. He loved every minute of it because he knew we did also.
My Grandfather also had a great sense of hunor with everyone. Coming home fron church when I was very young, he would tease me on the way home that we were headed to Alaska which would cause me to become very upset. He also sang a song about me called Sam, Sam, the lavatory man--not like a laboratory in science but the lavatory known as the toilet.
One time he thought I was joking around about being stung by a sting ray in Mexico along with everyone else there at that time. They laughed and cheered me on at my inability to walk up the shoreline. Of course he came to the rescue and we put out the fire. Actually he has had to put out multiple fires for me--4 or 5 broken arms, countless stitches and he even had me pee on my leg to deaden the pain from a jelly fish sting. A word of caution though--be sure to use your own urine!
I owe a lot to both my Grandma and Grandpa. They've given me opportunities that have definitely made an imput on my future as well as others. They were kind enough to share their time, money, and love with all who knows them. My Grandpa made great strides to make our families happy and healthy. He was the patriarch of our family.
Now that it has come to pass, there may seem to be a sense of fear that our leader is gone, but my Grandpa has given us the strength to face the future and welcome the challenges ahead.
Sam Kerr, Eldest Grandson
Thatch Shaw
June 14, 2007
When we first came to Mesa in 1961 Dr. Kerr was the "booming voice" that our children learned to love and admire. When we took our first child to see him, he took him in his arms and kissed and loved him. Dr. Kerr came to our home frequently to check our handicapped son Daniel. This he did without charge. He called Danny his "oldest patient" as Danny was 50 when Dr. Kerr died. He said "I'll be his Doctor as long as he or I live." We all love him and our family will miss him greatly.
Shirley Austermiller,RN
June 13, 2007
So sorry for your loss, I worked with Dr.Kerr for 37 years,and had the greatest respect for him. I can only say that another angel walks the halls of Heaven, God bless you and the family.
Susan Mann-Sweeney
June 9, 2007
To Betty and the Kerr Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathies. I had the very great privilege of working with Dr. Kerr at Mesa Pediatrics. In many ways he was the "heart" of the practice. A man who truly lived by the Golden Rule.
Marie Hardenbrook
June 7, 2007
John Kerr was an exceptional doctor with great vision for what it meant to care in a holistic way (emotionally, spiritually, and physically) for children and families. Both my sons were under the care of Mesa Pediatrics until they were 18. My most vivid memory was when Dr. Kerr quickly diagnosed (within 5 minutes of the visit) a critical illness of a child who was in my care while her parents were out of town. He sent us immediately to the emergency room. His wisdom of practice saved this child's life.
My condolences to his wife and family. Rest in the Lord, John, good and faithful servant.
Penny Nichols - Pew
June 5, 2007
Dr. Kerr...the name brings wonderful memories to me as it is one of love, understanding and some dang good humor. He was my Dr. as well as my five children. Funny story I have to share...I called him after many nights up with my youngest crying daughter and an ear-ache. He told us to drop some "old fashioned" warm oil in the ear and said the pain would be gone. He was right! The cow tick that had burrowed deep down came out and the crying stopped. When Dr. Kerr called the next day to check on her he had a great laugh and said, well maybe we shoulda looked in. (more loving laughter) The tick was saved on his desk for many years. We loved him like a grandpa and he will be truly missed. Mrs. Kerr bless you and your family in this tough time.
Robert & Barbara Kempton
June 3, 2007
Each of our 8 children and a number of our 20 grandchildren have thrived under the care of Dr Kerr. His competence, caring and selfless dedication to the best interests of his patients is unparalled. He has shown exceptional courage by putting his own well being at risk in order to insure the recovery of a child. We are forever grateful for the uplifting influence of this unique man.
Eva Vuorenmaa-Gertz
June 1, 2007
(Father)Kerr was a wonderful person and the best ambassador for America. As a foreign exchange student I lived one year with the Kerr-family. It was a great experience, a year tha gave me so much and formed my life in many ways.
Mr. Kerr was something special, a man with much love and dignity. He was generous and had lot´s of humor. I asked hin why he didn´t learn some german. 40 years ago he answered me: "I´m sure God speaks english" - They will now have a good time in heaven.
God bless mother Kerr an all the others.
Sherry L.
May 29, 2007
There is truly a special place in Heaven for Dr. Kerr.
Leah Kawamoto (Hikida)
May 27, 2007
Dear Mrs. Kerr,
I was so saddened to hear about your loss of your dear husband. Both of you have been so good to the Hikida family over the years. I know that my mother, Mariyo Hikida will be welcoming him into heaven and having a wonderful time remembering all the times spent together. I am so glad that I was able to speak to you at Mom's memorial service last summer. I send you a big heartfelt hug.
My deepest sympathy and love to you and your family at this difficult time,
Leah and Mas Kawamoto
Krystal, Malisa, John and girls, Jordan, Brooke and Ashley
Jody Ellebrecht
May 26, 2007
I am 40 years old, and live in Seattle now, but Dr. Kerr was my doctor since I was 2 until I was too old to see a pediatrician! Was I mad about that! My mother was a single parent during this time and we had very little money, and if it wasn't for Dr. Kerr's big heart, I could never have received the quality of care that I did. Thank you for all that you did for us. They sure don't make 'em like you anymore!
Jody Ellebrecht (Sanchez)
formerly of Mesa, AZ
Sandy Chase
May 26, 2007
I knew Dr. Kerr as a patient, co-worker, fellow church member and as a friend. Thank you for everything you did for our community and for my family. I am sure you have already said "Hi" to my mom, Esther Dehnert up in heaven. God bless you and thank you.
Danielle Madson
May 25, 2007
I had the honor of not only working with Dr. Kerr at Mesa Pediatrics but also being one of his original go-fer girls. He was one of a kind. An amazing man with a great big heart and a wonderful sense of humor. I think I can speak for the rest of his "girls" and say that we will miss dancing with him at the annual holiday party. The staff at Mesa Peds will truly miss their "partridge in a pear tree."
Bobbi Babcock
May 25, 2007
Dr. Kerr was my Pediatrician as well as my daughters. One of my fondest memories of him was waking up in an oxygen tent at Southside Hospital with Dr. Kerr sleeping in a chair next to my bed - holding my hand. I couldn't have been more than 3 years old and I remember feeling completely safe. I have multiple stories like that, because he was truly an incredible human being. I loved his sense of humor as well. One day while examining my daughter he asked her, "How's your Gizzard?" to which she replied, "good". He laughed uproariously.
Dr Kerr, you will be missed by many. Thank you for your love, dedication and incredible sense of humor. We love you.
Our condolences to the Kerr Family.
Bobbi Babcock and Brittany Craun
Elva Leppla
May 25, 2007
All the wonderful things that people have been saying about John Kerr today Betty, they have been able to say for the last 53 years!
We are proud to have called him a friend.
Elva and Henry Leppla
Susie, Brad, and Nancy Benton
Barbara Mendoza
May 25, 2007
Dr.Kerr was my dr.when I was a child and also my son's and daughter's dr. when they were growing up.I remember when they would lie on the bed and Dr. Kerr would bring his face down and make funny noises to them and he would let them take off his glasses. He was the most wonderful man and always had a smile on his face. He will always have a special place in my heart. We love you Dr. Kerr and you will truly be missed.
Genelle Farrell
May 25, 2007
Mrs. Kerr and family--
I have known Dr. Kerr since August of 1987 when I started working for him at Mesa Pediatrics. He was the dearest and sweetest man I had ever worked for. He never was too busy to answer questions and take care of the "person". He was our "Energizer Bunny" so to speak. With all of his many things he was involved in it was hard to keep up! I loved his boogie boarding stories. I miss be called "knuckle-head". The Lord broke the mold when he made John K. Kerr. Although a man--and no one is perfect--he was perfect to me. I will miss him. God bless you all! You are in my prayers!
Nicole Niesz-Russell
May 25, 2007
I was blessed enough to be adopted thirty years ago from Thailand, and Dr. Kerr was the first to give me a check-up. We lived overseas for a long period of time due to my father's job, but always returned to Mesa Pediatrics in the Summer for immunizations and well-checks. Dr. Kerr and Dr. Schwartz were the best- thank you to Dr. Kerr for having such a wonderful staff in the practice he began, as well as "paying it forward" to the community. What a gift.
Emily Fletcher
May 25, 2007
Dear Kerr Family
Dr Kerr was one of my doctors growing up. He also has taken care of my son since birth. He even saw my sons father free of charge when he had no money or insurance. I was an employee at Mesa Peds for over 6 years and Dr Kerr was always so much fun to be around and work with. We are all so truely blessed!
Marie Hire
May 24, 2007
Dear Betty and family:
Thank you for sharing such a beautiful day with us. Dr. Kerr was such a wonderful man, no words will ever be able to describe how wonderful he was. We honor him greatly. I attended my first funeral with him many years back of a patient who passed away and he told me that at his funeral I was not to cry, but to smile and laugh. I tried my very hardest today, but tears did come. So Dr. Kerr they were tears of happiness to have know such a great man. Thank you and my thoughts and prayers are with your family always.
Marie Hire and Family
Cindy Schilt
May 24, 2007
Dr. Kerr was a very caring and gentle man. I brought both my kids to MPPA all their years till they turned 18. They just loved him! He always made us feel comfortable. My condolances to the Kerr family for their loss.
Cindy Stephens
May 24, 2007
With condolences in the loss of someone whose generous spirit touched so many lives in ways that will always be treasured. I will miss Dr Kerr's laughter and kind words. What a great journey he had.
Kathy Jones
May 24, 2007
Nearly fifty years ago, a frightened little girl was taken to see Dr Kerr. After that initial visit, she was frightened no more!
Dr. Kerr was the kindest, most gentle doctor I have ever met. He was very important to both my immediate and extended families. We were blessed to have him as our doctor!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
wanda thompson
May 24, 2007
Dear Kerr family.
what a great man. a sweet addition to every family with kids. we love dr. kerr. he was never too busy to help us.
i believe he is in heaven giving mrs. dingman an update regarding their passion, sunshine acres children's home.
dear dr. kerr, we miss you. you are our hero.
wanda and chuck thompson.
Liz Manning
May 24, 2007
What can you say about the greatest pediatrician a kid could ever hope to have? I was one of the lucky ones to be in the care of Dr. Kerr for most of my youth. He had to kick me out of his office at the age of 18 and I can still hear him say, “kiddo, you need a real doctor now, so off you go.” I was devastated. Fortunately, my relationship with John continued over the years and I feel so fortunate to have called him friend. To know him was to love him – how could you not? His heart was bigger than the universe and when you were in his presence you felt his love. He was the ultimate family man. John was humorous, kind, giving and caring. He touched so many lives and made such an impact on the community, yet he was the most humble of men. I feel honored to have known him. He will be greatly missed. My love and prayers go to my dear friend, Betty, his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Diane Matsumoto
May 23, 2007
To the family of John Kerr,
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to your family for that gift that you have given our community. For your sacrifices of all the late dinners and missed bedtime stories, we salute you. John was a wonderful mentor. When I walked into MPPA ten years ago, I knew much about the science of medicine but little of the art of it. John helped me change that. He taught me how to diagnose botulism from a doorway and how to laugh at myself. Tomorrow, as all the doctors who were fortunate enough to learn from John’s magic return to the practice of medicine, your family’s legacy will live on. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Carol Jennings
May 23, 2007
Dear Betty and family,
Arizona has lost one of its greatest -- a man of consummate integrity and dedication to his family, his profession and his community. My heart is with you as you bid him goodbye.
Kristen Elsesser
May 23, 2007
Heaven has two wonderful and respected men now, Dr.Kerr and Dr. Brinkerhoff. I am not sure if they even knew each other but I grew up with Dr. Kerr and was blessed with the chance to meet with Dr. Brinkerhoff, he operated on me and my daughter. It is ironic that two of the most gentle and compassionate men were called home within a year of each other. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. May god bless you all, today and in the future
Danielle Manning
May 23, 2007
You were a wonderful, kind gentelman and one GREAT friend to my grandma.Thank you for your kindness to my family. You will be GREATLY missed!
jean danforth and family
May 23, 2007
I was very saddened of the passing of Dr.Kerr.I first met Dr.Kerr when we moved to mesa in 1964.At that time we had our fourth child,our first daughter.Dr,Kerr kept insisting that we call her Samantha.Needless to say we didnt,but i promised him that we would call our new puppy samantha.Dr.Kerr was a great doctor and he and my husband worked together for years at the child crisis center.my prayers and thoughts are with Betty and the family.
Renee Deyden
May 23, 2007
Our dear friend, John set the example for all of us to aspire. He was our doctor,our friend, our buddy in golf, swimming and just to enjoy poolside chats as kids played under watchful loving eyes. He was a sanctuary for us and our children in times of urgent and critical need. I feel Blessed that my family knew him as a friend, a physician and a wonderful mentor of a man. He will be greatly missed and heaven's stars shine even more brightly now that he is there to lovingly share eternity with all God's angels.
Brian Johns
May 23, 2007
Thanks for all you've done. You will be sorely missed...say hello to your old classmate, my grandpa, up there.
The Fraser kids (all grown up)
May 23, 2007
Dr. Kerr was our doctor when we moved to Mesa in 1963. He was the best and the most caring doctor we've ever had.
Rick Daniels
May 23, 2007
Dr. Kerr defined greatness.
Cliff and Ruth Nugent
May 23, 2007
John was a great guy!!! I remember he was elected President of the Mesa School Board his first year on the board. He was a wonderful Dr. to our children and grand childrin!! He was a gentlemen you wanted to know.
Torres Family @ Kerr Elementary
May 23, 2007
do not be sad for too long because of the loss of your precious loved one, instead be joyful for having shared life with such a wonderful man. now is not the time to be quiet and sad instead now is the time to celebrate and give praises to the lord for John has inherited Heaven, the greatest gift ever, beauty and wonders unexplainable.So be joyful in knowing that he is the happiest he has ever been, and from now until the day God calls you home, live everyday so that you will someday make it to heaven and be reunited with him. when you think of him remember these words, " In the sweet bye and bye we shall meet on that beautiful shore..."
Jonie Alden
May 23, 2007
Dr. Kerr was also my childrens doctor and also my grandchildrens doctor. As a new mother he made me comfortable about myself and made the children confortable to go to the doctor. I can still remember when one of my twins split her chin open and the only one that she would let touch her was Dr. Kerr. He told her to be still and be quiet and not to be afraid. He touched all of us and he will be missed.
Kathy Stephens
May 23, 2007
Dear Carla, Betty and family: When I think of your dad Carla, I remember a man who had such a wonderful sense of humor, loved you all, and gave freely of his talents and time. How fitting that a school was named in his honor.
I shall never forget that Sat. morning you and I went out to his office and he pierced my ears. You had had yours done while in Chile as a foreign exchange student ...and suddenly it was the 'cool' thing to do.
He made me laugh, offered sage advice and shared his gentle way. Dr. Kerr had a way of making you feel special. It was one of his many gifts. Our loss is Heaven's gain. You will be so very missed Dr. John.
Thank you from all of us whose lives you touched. You truly made a difference and I feel blessed to have known you.
Paula Pratt/Hoefer
May 23, 2007
Dr. Kerr meant so much to our family. We know how much he loved us, and how well he treated us for every medical need, with a tender heart and a wise head.
Shari (Little) Hodziewich
May 23, 2007
Dear Betty and the Kerr Family,
What a sad days for us all to have to say good bye to such a pillar of strength, compassion, humor and love. My family and I have known Dr. Kerr for over 45 years. I have been his patient, employee and friend. He took care of me as a child and then cared for my children. His creative and kid friendly exam rooms actually inspired me to pursue a career in interior design. I always marveled at the love and care Betty took to make those offices so special and they each so carefully reflected his personality! He always made us laugh, yet, could give us a hankie to dry our tears when there was bad news.
We love him and will never forget the mark he has left on our lives and on the world.
Shari (Little,) Hodziewich
Joseph Piacentine
May 22, 2007
John Kerr was a rare person. He always took an interest in everyone around him and never spoke ill of anyone. He truly practiced medicine, and lived, with the "golden rule" as his mantra.
I consider it an honor to have known and learned from such a master. May we all lead our lives in the exemplary way he did.
My condolences.
The Workman Family
May 22, 2007
Dr. Kerr, will always be remembered, when our children reflect on their childhood experiences of going to the doctors, how it actually was a good experience with Dr. Kerr and fun. he will be missed. our condolences to his family.
nancy hermann
May 22, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Frank Bennett
May 22, 2007
Where to start? Dr. Kerr was my pediatrician, my children's and my grandchildren's. He was a neighbor and a great friend. My wife worked for him as an office nurse. He was a mentor and a sponsor for me for community service work. None of us can hope to measure up to the standard he set for love and selfless service to his fellow man. Our world and Betty and the kids have suffered a great loss.
Christine (Heywood) Leiato
May 22, 2007
Dr. Kerr was part of our lives. He was not only there for our children but he always had time to give comfort and peace to us, the parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, etc. He was a friend of my Dad's and that says it all for me. Dr. Kerr, thank you for sharing your knowledge, your time and your love with Mesa. You live in our hearts... Thank you to his family for loving and supporting this wonderful man. We grieve with you.
Jackie Bink
May 22, 2007
Dr Kerr was one of the Greats! He helped so many through so much. He will be missed by us all. He is wearing his crown he so richly deserves.
Peggy Jensen
May 22, 2007
Dr. Kerr was a wonderful man and will be remembered for his kind and generous nature, and for all of the wonderful contributions that he made to our community. Not only was he my children's pediatrician, he has also seen many of my grandchildren. Mesa Pediatrics has been a blessing to many of my family members due to the high standard of excellence that Dr. Kerr established. He will be greatly missed and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Dan Dearen
May 22, 2007
Dear Betty and Family,
Dr. John Kerr was a wonderful community leader, caring physician, churchman, and friend. The Dearen family sends its condolences to the Kerr family and wants you to know how much we valued and enjoyed the bowling, golf, dinners, community leadership activities and meetings we had with John over the years. We also appreciate the wonderful medical care that John and Dr. Carland provided to our children for so many years.
We pray that the pain your family is now feeling over the loss of John will diminish with the passage of time.
Your friends,
Dan and Lynn
Patti Lammers
May 22, 2007
Thank you Dr. Kerr for the wonderful memories I have cherished for years. When I first started working for you, I was a little nervous about meeting "the boss", but when you called me Red at our introduction, I knew I would love working with you. One of my best memories is when you would ANNOUNCE LOUDLY as you walked the halls, the count down until your vacation started. I know you were excited about spending time with Betty and your family, but I also know how excited you were to get back to the office to take care of all of us who need you. My kids still go to Mesa Peds and will until Dr. Schwartz kicks them out!! Our thoughts and prayers are with the Kerr family. Patti Lammers (Reilly)
The Scott Family
May 22, 2007
Our condolenses to your family. May you all find comfort in Jehovah Gods promise of a resurrection.
Laura Sharp
May 22, 2007
I met Dr. John Kerr recently as I am a close friend to one of his grandsons. During the years I've known Brian he often talked about how wonderful a man his grandpa was and how lucky he was to have him as his grandpa. After meeting him I learned just how special a man he truly was. Having done so much good not only for his family members but for his community as well. He is a great role model for us all. It is a loss for us all with his passing on. He will be deeply missed and thought of often.
Danielle Trueba (Nansen)
May 22, 2007
Dr. Kerr saw three generations of the Nansen family - My Dad, my brothers and I and my son. I also worked for Dr. Kerr for about 5 years. Dr. Kerr was there for my family when we needed him most. My brother Erik was diagnosed with a very rare, terminal brain disease. My brother loved Dr. Kerr so much – I remember him running down the hallway of Mesa Pediatrics and practically knocking Dr. Kerr down with a big hug! Dr. Kerr even made frequent house calls when Erik was bedridden. When my brother passed away, he was by our side comforting us.
Dr. Kerr always gave of himself. He is a true example of how to live your life. His faith and commitment to children are absolutely AMAZING! I hope the Kerr family knows how much we loved him and how much he meant to me and my family. My sincerest sympathy to the Kerr Family.
Mike Rowley
May 22, 2007
Man, what can you say about the greatest pediatrician to ever practice. As a kid I actaully cheered when we got to go see Dr. Kerr. My kids loved him too. He could find a way to make getting a shot fun and he always left me smiling...as a patient and a father of a patient. I loved that man.
Brian, Celia, Kiley and Grady Allen
May 22, 2007
Dr. Kerr was a kind, generous and caring man. We appreciated the dedication and support that he provided to the students at Kerr Elementary. As our children move on to the next level of their education, they will take with them many memories of a great man who made a difference in their world. You and your family are in our hearts.
Thank you, Dr. Kerr, Betty and family for sharing your life with ours.
Betty & Paul Mills
May 22, 2007
48 years ago I carried a limp two-year old into John Kerr's office on Well Baby Day. He walked by the half door - stopped and asked, "What's wrong with that kid?" and when he had his nurse show us to the "Airplane Room" I never expected to be seeing this man for the next 22 years. The late nights we met at the old Southside hospital are too numerous to recall. From no hope to a wonderful life for our daughter, Cindy Mills, Dr Kerr was with us all the way. They later passed in the halls at Mesa Lutheran where she was a micro-biologist - He always met her with, How is Sam doing today!"
Working with him on the Mesa School Board was a treat. And we got sand on the playgrounds.
I called my girls after seeing the notice in the paper and Laura-Lee's reply was one we all share. " Oh no, He was one of the good ones! We will really miss him"
So THANK YOU Dr. Kerr for being the best.
Darlene Brinkerhoff
May 22, 2007
Dear Betty and family,
We are so sorry to hear of John's passing. We loved, appreciated and respected him. Troy thought of him as his mentor and John was so good to encourage Troy through school and early practice days.
My memories are: His excitement when I finally had a baby...him kissing my babies when he examined them...calming me when I would over react in mothering...crying with me when my son Travis was diagnosed with leukemia and then standing by my side as he was treated...serving with him in the community and watching how everyone listened carefully when he spoke...feeling his concern and love for me as an individual...his subtle humor...his wisdom and compassion...his faith in the divine...his love, respect and concern for all mankind. He has touched so many lives and the world is a better place because of the way he lived. Thank you for sharing him with all of us. What a wonderful man your husband and father is. We are all saddened and share your grief. We will miss him. We are so blessed to have known him. We love you.
Darlene Brinkerhoff and the Brinks
Gretchen O'Barr
May 22, 2007
My mother, Eileen Dalzen, worked for Mesa Pediatrics for 13 years. As a young teenager I saw Dr. Kerr and before we moved to Alaska, our children always went there. It seems like yesterday that I took my first little girl (who is now 41) to see him. I loved his sense of humor more than anything! He seemed so "laid back" but still was very serious when necessary. He truly was someone who left a mark on the world. Gretchen O'Barr, Wasilla, AK
Yvonne Bullard
May 22, 2007
Dr. Kerr was a great man. He will be remembered in the community for his enormous heart. He helped so many children at Child Crisis Center and was loved and respected by the staff. I know he has a very special room in heaven.
Carol Lopinski
May 22, 2007
My heart felt condolences to Betty & the family! Dr. Kerr was a wonderful, giving man who made a difference in the lives of many children who needed love & caring.
Janice
May 22, 2007
Dr. Kerr was my doctor growing up, all three of my children grew up at Mesa Pediatrics also. He saved my daugters life when she was born in 1990. I owe so many thanks to him and Dr. Shwartz for so many years of devotion and dedication towards myself and my children.
He will be deeply missed by everyone that had the privlige of knowing him in his personal and professional life. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family.
Don & Anne Ascoli
May 22, 2007
We were sadden to hear of Dr. Kerr's passing. He was a good friend and Neighbor here in Verde Glen. He will surely be missed. Our youngest son was one of Dr. Kerr's patients. He was a caring and thoughtful man. Our deepest sympathy to Betty and Family.
Christy Strauch
May 22, 2007
Dr. Kerr was my doctor (I was born the year he opened his practice). I remember trying to lever my 5'9" frame into the baby chairs in the waiting room as I grew to adolescence; when I was 16 he finally insisted that I find another doctor. I did NOT want to go.
He was a great, caring man and left a wonderful legacy. I'm grateful to have known him.
James Carland, MD
May 22, 2007
John Kerr was more than a great pediatrician. He was a wonderful human being. He loved pediatrics and long ago said he would never retire, and though he cut back he never did stop caring for children. Though not the first physician to provide pediatric care in the east valley he was the first to be board certified. In many ways, he set the standard others in pediatric practice sought to achieve. In ways big and small, Dr. Kerr made a difference. He leaves this small corner of the world a little better than it was.
Kathie McMahon
May 22, 2007
I helped open Kerr Elementary School in 1993 and taught fifth and sixth grades there until I retired two years ago. Dr. Kerr was always there on the first day of school, greeting the kids at the flagpole and on the playground. He attended all the programs we did, and was there to wave to the buses as they left on the last day of school. When we did our human body unit in fifth grade, I always invited Dr. Kerr to come and do the heart dissection for the class. The kids loved and respected him very much. He was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed!
Laura Bohorquez
May 22, 2007
I am very sorry to hear of Dr. Kerr's passing my daughters have both seen him a few times as they have grown up with Mesa Pediatrics and he would always greet us with a hello when we were in the office seeing other doctors.
Our condolences to the the Kerr Family.
Kelli Clark
May 22, 2007
My condolences to the Family. He was a great Doctor to my daughter, who is now a mother herself. We are so sorry for your loss.
Bekka, Nikki, & Chad Lancucki
May 21, 2007
Dr. Kerr provided help, support, and kindness whenever we needed it. He always attended extra-curricular activities, and shared his knowledge with the students at Kerr Elementary whenever we needed an adult's point of view. As his students/former student, we would like to give our condolences to Dr. Kerr's friends and family, and thank him for all of the gifts he has given us.
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The Five Stages of Grief
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Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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