John Francis McGonigle M.D.

McGONIGLE, John Francis M.D.
Born in Kansas City, Missouri on September 29, 1925, passed away at his cattle ranch in Cathes Valley, California, on April 15, 2004. John was a long-time resident of Pacific Palisades, CA and a member of Corpus Christi Parish. John attended St. John's Catholic elementary school in Herington, Kansas, and went on to Herington High School, earning his high school degree on May 27, 1943. His fond memories of Herington included the Union Pacific Railroad, where his father worked as engineer, and reading every volume in the public library. In July 1946, John graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Central Missouri State College in Warrensburg, Missouri. John received his Doctor of Medicine degree at St. Louis University in June 1948. John's military career spanned over three decades. He enlisted in the United States Navy in January 1943 at the age of 17. He received an honorable discharge in May 1946. In October 1950, John enlisted in the Medical Corps of the United States Army, and he distinguished himself by meritorious service with the Medical Company, as Surgeon, 1 Battalion, and later Regimental Surgeon, 19th Infantry from June 1951 to February 1952. John was assigned to the Mobile Arms Surgical Hospital (MASH). John completed his service in the Army with the status of Major in the Army. On July 10, 1950, John was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. The citation for the Bronze Star Medal reads in relevant part: "Despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Captain McGonigle insured prompt and comfortable evacuation of battle casualties and his broad professional knowledge and rare initiative enhanced the morale and efficiency of the unit. Faced with the problem of constant exposure of troops to communicable diseases, Captain McGonigle instituted an educational program designed to inform personnel of necessary preventative measures. When the station in direct support of forward elements of the regiment was brought under enemy fire, Captain McGonigle, disregarding personal safety, ordered personnel to pull back while he helped the wounded to foxholes where he treated them. Captain McGonigle's consummate devotion to duty resulted in the saving of numerous lives and his notable achievements reflected credit on himself and the military service." Following his service in Korea, John completed his internship at the University of California at San Diego. He did his residency in orthopedics at County Hospital, University of Southern California. In 1964, John worked with the United States Government and the people of South Vietnam by treating the ill and injured during a voluntary medical mission. He was awarded a Certificate of Humanitarian Service by the American Medical Association for his service in Viet Nam. A pioneer in the field of orthopedics, John practiced as an orthopedic surgeon at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, California more than 30 years. In addition to his work as a surgeon, John was a real estate developer, art collector, owned an air charter company, and raced thoroughbred horses. John's single greatest attribute was his generosity. He was willing to help anyone. His drive was extraordinary, he worked at a pace few could maintain, and used his success to help countless people in need. In addition, he had a great sense of humor and a very dry wit, and was keenly proud of his Irish heritage. John was the father of 14 children with his wife of nearly 40 years, Virginia. He is preceded in death by two daughters, Kathleen Ann and Molly Diane. His surviving children are: Martha Marie Ehrhart, Mary Helen, John Francis, Michael Joseph, Nancy Ann, Susan Wenner (Peter), Ann Theresa Kruse (Frank), Timothy Desiderio (Hilda), Thomas Patrick (Tracy), Patrick James,Theresa Raphael, and Virginia Ann. His grandchildren are Kevin Ehrhart (Heather), Susan Ehrhart, Matthew Ehrhart, Christopher Wenner, Billy Wenner, P.J. Wenner, Matthew Wenner, Kenneth Kruse, Patrick Kruse, Sean McGonigle, Kelly McGonigle, Molly McGonigle, Rory McGonigle, Noreen McGonigle, Colin McGonigle, and Brendan McGonigle. His great-grandchild1010