Dr. Detlev Lange

1940 - 2025

Dr. Detlev Lange passed away quietly at his home on July 22, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was 85.
Born in Eisenstadt Austria in 1940, his family had to separate at an early age, and he and his mother emigrated to the US in 1950 amid the tumult of WWII. His father and sister stayed behind in Europe. He did not know if he would ever see them again. Arriving at Ellis Island in New York Harbor, the memory of seeing the Statue of Liberty made a distinct impression that remained the rest of his life. Settling initially in the south, he quickly had to adapt to American culture, including learning English, sometimes with the help of comic books, and with a distinctly southern accent. Boyhood dreams were shaped by stories of cowboy heroes of the day, and set him on a path he would follow for the rest of his life.
He graduated from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 1966 and ultimately settled in the Kern River Valley. Starting his modest practice there in 1967, he soon found himself travelling far and wide to provide veterinary care. Many late nights and early mornings found him on a ranch or in his clinic trying to put some unlucky animal back together. Known by all as "Doc" and "Dud," there were few people in the area who did not take their pets to him at one time or another.
His love of equestrian and ranching pursuits was lifelong, and not only put him through veterinary school but also led him to meet his wife, Ann. By his own account, it was love at first sight. They were married in Walker Basin in 1965, a marriage that remained steadfast for 55 years. Together, they built a thriving business, and followed their love of outdoor activities, riding horses and packing mules through many miles of trails in the wilderness, living a storybook life most people only read about in books. A visit to their camp rarely ended with an empty stomach, and was undoubtedly a cherished lifelong memory. Many good friends shared their campfire over the years.
He enjoyed being an active member of the community, belonging to many local organizations. He particularly enjoyed the Backcountry Horsemen and the Masonic Lodge.
He closed the last chapter on a fifty-plus-year legacy of animal care, retiring from his veterinary practice in Lake Isabella in 2020.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Ann, mother Charlotte, father Gerhard, and sister Doris.
He is survived by his son John and daughter-in-law Charlotte.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, Sept 6th, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge at 562 James Rd, Kernville, CA.
Donations may be made in his name to One Spade Youth Packers in Kernville, CA and the Lake Isabella Animal Shelter.