Joseph W. Plautz
1937 - 2015
Joseph W. Plautz
1937 - 2015
Obituary
Guest Book
Joseph Plautz Obituary
Joseph W. Plautz, MD, passed away August 22, 2015, at his home in Henderson. He was born August 18, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, to Joseph and Dela Plautz. He graduated as valedictorian of Dearborn High School in 1955. He married his first wife in 1955, and after receiving a bachelor’s and medical degree from Wayne State University, he entered the Navy and served at Camp Pendleton, California and Chelsea Naval Hospital in Boston, specializing in obstetrics and gynecology.
He married Karen Lee Hinkle on June 22, 1967, and they were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on February 11, 1975. After military service, Joseph practiced medicine in Elkins, West Virginia, and at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana. With his wife Karen and their children, he moved to Henderson, NV in 1981. He established Deseret Women’s Care, his practice based out of St. Rose de Lima Hospital, serving the communities of Henderson, Boulder City, and Las Vegas. The thousands of babies he delivered will not remember the songs he sang in the delivery room, but their mothers will never forget.
Joseph retired from his medical practice once in 2002, and traveled to New Zealand as a locum tenens physician. In 2004, he returned to Henderson to resume practicing medicine and was integral in the medical community until he permanently retired in February of this year.
He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in many ward and stake callings, including Bishop, First Counselor in the Stake Presidency, Stake Mission President, Gospel Doctrine Teacher, and Home Teacher. Throughout all of his callings, his devotion to service was evident. He was never as happy as when he was surrounded by the youth of the church and community, and this dedication to children made him a marvelous father and grandfather.
Joseph is survived by his wife Karen, and his children Matthew (Charlene) Plautz, Robert (Kyomi) Plautz, Julie (Scott) Carper, Lynne (Jack) Barnhart-Jentzen, Hugh Bryant Plautz, Krista (Spencer) Schuenman, Regan (Jothan) Peterson, Paige Strafella, Alanson Plautz, and Arley (Brandon) Downs, 31 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Dennis (Andrea) Plautz. He was preceded in death by his daughters, Marcia Montague and Kerry Jo Plautz, and his son Douglas Plautz.
Visitation will be at the LDS Water Street Chapel, located at 400 S. Water Street in Henderson, on Saturday, August 29, 2015 from 10:00am to 11:30am with services to follow at 12:00pm, handled by Palm Mortuary. Interment will be at the Buckhannon Memorial Garden in Buckhannon, West Virginia. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Children International at www.children.org or Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Judy Grimes
March 28, 2024
I just learned of Dr. Joe's passing, many years later I'm afraid. Karen and I were part of his fertility studies, gaging the sex of a child. We so much wanted a boy and Dr. Joe was on the money with our Timothy and he did it again with our Matthew. When he left Elkins I was devastated. We traveled on to Indianapolis, and to my delight I opened the phone book to find he and Karen had moved there too. I surprised him with a need for a checkup after my cancer surgery. He walked in with his glasses propped on his head, looked up and just about fainted then let out that big Dr. Joe laugh. Best of all our boys met him, they were all thrilled.
Dr. Joe was the very best, caring, excited if you were pregnant and so honest with you. I was lucky enough to have Karen as my nurse. Best team ever. Karen I am so sorry for your loss.
Rob Swenson
August 18, 2018
I was not aware that Dr. Plautz had passed away until today when he and his wife Karen came to mind. He was my Bishop during a difficult and challenging time in my life. I practically "moved-in" to their home and was allowed to be their "errand boy" and "maintenance man" until I left for Podiatry school (Yes, Dr. Plautz and Karen encouraged me to go) in 1988. If I have amounted to anything in this life, I owe much of that to him and to his wife. I love you both and I always will.
Jennifer J
March 20, 2018
Amazing doctor! He delivered my first baby and what a delight He was. He worked for an ob / gyn group which mandated that you see all doctors (for routine ob visits) in the group because it is uncertain whom will be on- call when you deliver. I always told him I wanted HIM to do the delivery and I got so lucky because he was there!!
Heaven is a lot brighter with my Dr. Plautz up there!
Peace and Love to his family ... what awesome man!
Patricia Wilson
March 25, 2017
I was the labor nurse when Dr. Plautz delivered his last baby at Sunrise hospital. I am still a labor nurse. Tonight I was describing some of the gentlest births I have witnessed and he stands out. I loved to watch him deliver babies into a warm water bath and hold them gently, waiting for them to wake on their own. It was spiritual thing. He treated every mother with the greatest respect in an age when that was not the norm.
Thank-you, Dr. Plautz.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Karen Q
March 5, 2017
I just ran across this today, looking for information for two of my sons personal histories. I am one of thousands of grateful mothers that he made a difference with. Dr. Plautz delivered my second son, and was there just in time to serenade me and my husband and our new addition as he delivered. He plopped down at my feet, and began to sing at the top of his lungs - old school, whimsical stuff that distracted and delighted me and the medical staff on hand. The anesthesiologist made several requests; "Hey doc, do you know this one...?" and Dr. Plautz would regale us with another uniquely 'Dr. Plautz' rendition...
As a new mother in a far away place, (without cell phones and email) I regarded Dr. Plautz as an experienced and knowledgeable professional, who managed to inject humor with intelligence and experience as he met with me and my husband and our beautiful new babies. When he moved to St. Rose de Lima in Henderson, I followed, driving 45 minutes each way across town as I trusted him to my prenatal care before our third son's arrival. Although I did not know him personally, it was obvious that he was a man of his word and lived by his convictions. I shared religious beliefs and was thankful for a doctor who subscribed to the same belief system. I will always be grateful for this good man who took care of me and two beautiful babies and made childbirth as painfully wonderful as it could possibly be.
Amanda Wagner
October 14, 2016
Dr. Plautz was the best doctor I ever had. He really cared for his patients and I had the pleasure of seeing him one last time the week he was retiring and, as always, he sang to me and made me feel completely comfortable and calm in his presence. He was my doctor for several years and restored my faith in the medical system. He was a true gem and is greatly missed.
Heather Bekish
April 20, 2016
I just found out today that my Dr. Plautz went on to another life. I have missed him since he retired the last time. He was the BEST Dr. that I was priveldged to have treat me. He was so kind and compassionate. I always felt like he was my friend and didn't know until just now, reading about him that he too was of Mormon religion. I was baptised Mormon. My prayers are with his family. May you find peace and comfort in the memories and love that you shared. He was not only a GREAT physician, but a GREAT man. I will Always remember Dr. Joseph Plautz.
doni wagner
March 21, 2016
Karen, I am one of Dr Plautz's devoted patient's. I am crying as I write this. I would like to talk to you. Could you send me your address and phone #? There will never be another Dr like him. Not for me anyway❤ , Love ❤ Doni
4323 w 1525 s cedar city Utah 84720. 435 531 9141
LaLa
November 30, 2015
My teacher & best friend from long ago. He inspired me to become a nurse. My heartfelt condolences to all who loved him too.
Lisa Diaz
November 24, 2015
My everything Dr. for 35 years. I was his 3rd patient in Boulder City! He has been my OB-GYN Dr. for all of that time. His fertility expertise was superior, and I have a beautiful 26 year daughter because of his efforts. God Bless you Doc! My heart-felt prayers to the family.
November 12, 2015
The best Dr. I ever had for over 35 years! So compassionate, and he treated me for more than just basic OB-GYN stuff. He could figure out stuff that my regular family Drs could not. What a tremendous loss for all his patients, and of course all of his family.
Dar Stone
September 26, 2015
Joe was one of the kindest people I know. He had a wonderful work ethic and a heart of gold. He was a lifelong learner, and humble to the core. We are all better for having known him. Karen, Regan, and the rest of the family, please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. Such a huge loss. Thank you for sharing such a generous spirit with us.
Regan
September 10, 2015
Dad's Hands
I will remember your hands
Soft, yet incredibly strong enough
To cradle a baby or grasp a pulpit
Pull me in close for a hug
Pat the head of a child
Or give a blessing.
Daddy
I wish you could
Hold my hand
Just one more time
And never
Never let go.
Janet Martinez
September 1, 2015
Dr Plautz was a great comfort during my pregnancy with my youngest son. He was new to Henderson but he was so caring. I'd had two miscarriages and he was always there if I had concerns. He had told my daughter she was going to have a baby sister. He called to break the news that she had a baby brother. My sincerest condolences to his family and my they cherish all their memories of a wonderful man.
Patricia Buchanan
September 1, 2015
Dr Plautz was the most easy going and cheerful doctor I have ever known. I could alway tell he was coming because you could hear his whistling as he came down the hall. The Raggedy Ann doll he had above was also a great distraction as no one likes this kind of visit to the doctor. He was a great man and will truely be missed.
Sending our love and support
Anna Hobbs
August 31, 2015
Dr. Plautz made our world a better place with his caring and love for his family, friends and patients, He gave us his best! He will be missed greatly. He was a true friend. We send our love and support to his family. Our hearts and prayers go out to you.
Rita Maestas and Anna Hobbs
Jenny DeCow
August 30, 2015
Thank you for the beautiful service yesterday. I have wonderful childhood memories of being in the Plautz home with all its fun and laughter and music. Years ago, Dr. Plautz willingly wrote a letter of recommendation for me for medical school. He exemplifies caring and generosity. Hopefully, we can all be a little more like him.
Janice DeCow
August 29, 2015
What a beautiful service today. I felt privileged to attend. I love Joe and Karen. They have brought so much joy to my parents through their many years of friendship. I will miss hearing the loud and laughter filled conversations that always took place whenever my dad and Joe got together. He will be greatly missed.
Rebekah Hamby
August 29, 2015
Dr. Plautz was my mom's and my doctor. He was very good to me although very hard on me about my health. He worried about me and shared personal stories as to why I needed to take better care of myself. I wish I could tell him I am trying to take better care of myself by going on a diet etc. I will miss him.
Devyani Mehta MD
August 29, 2015
We will miss you Dr Plautz.
RIP our beloved friend.
Jacquely Morris
August 29, 2015
I worked with Joe for 10 yrs at St Rose Domincan hospital in Henderson. We had many laughs over his delivery 'songs'; his Prune Danishes- delivered once a year.... But he had a tender, sweet and kind side to his personality. His spirit will live on in all the lives he touched. I loved Dr. Plautz, and I pray his family relishes in all the fun, and happy memories.
Sherry Wright
August 28, 2015
Karen,
My memories are earlier than most of these, but I remember the fun of Porsches and Great Danes, and what a cool cousin I thought you'd brought to the family. May you know God's loving arms around you in these tough days to come. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sherry (and June and Dennis)
August 28, 2015
I loved this man so much. He took care of me through a very difficult pregnancy and never once got impatient with me. his great sense of humor, knowledge and faith helped me a great deal and many others. Even my C-section was special because of him. I know he loved his patients and those babies. Many thanks to his family for sharing him with so many of us. Faith Rosemeyer
August 28, 2015
Karen and family. We are so sorry to hear of Dr. Plate passing. He delivered 2 of our children as well as being a dear friend. We spent a good deal of time with him at Deke Blackburn bedside. You are all in our prayers.
Patty Otterstrom
August 28, 2015
Bishop/Dr Plautz will be forever loved in our family for his unceasing service during my grandfather's (Ray Matheson) convalesce and subsequent death in 1982. He was a wonderful physician physically and spiritually. God be with you 'till we meet again. Patty and Scott Otterstrom.
Dean Taylor
August 28, 2015
I met Joe in 1981 after he and his family moved to Henderson. Joe had practiced medicine at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis and since I grew up in Indianapolis, Joe and I had something in common. I always thought Joe was a wonderful human being. I liked his character, his maturity, his intelligence, and most of all his sincerity. I am sure Joe will be dearly missed by all who knew him and may God bless him.
HAZANNE KOMPELIEN, RN
August 28, 2015
Years and years of good memories delivering babies with this wonderful man. I hope he won't mind if I keep singing HIS songs in my deliveries. Prayers for his family
Mary Dixon
August 28, 2015
I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Plautz at St. Rose Hospital. Singing during deliveries was his trademark. He was a great Physician who showed compassion to everyone. My sincere sympathy to his family.
Peggy & Scott Gifford
August 28, 2015
G. M Our daughter was one of the first babies Dr. Plautz delivered after setting up practice in Henderson, later our son. He sang thru both deliveries. He was active at the rec center walking as I saw him many times there. A great and kind man. Thank you to the family for the service and care he gave to all of the community. Thank you Dr. Plautz. Peggy & Scott Gifford and family.
Gayle Halversen
August 28, 2015
My name is Gayle. I was an OB nurse at St. Rose. Dr. Plautz always sang "Gay lee pay lee songs to me. A great man, a great servant.
sandy jones
August 27, 2015
Karen, So sorry for your loss, I have such great memories doing the dresses for your girls weddings, and Joe singing in the delivery room, when my babies were born. He was a great man. He will be missed.
Barbara Ver Planck
August 27, 2015
To the Plautz family I am very sad to hear of your loss. Dr. Plautz was my doctor for 24 years he was such a kind and caring man, and an amazing doctor. He was always concerned about all areas of your life, patients today really don't get that anymore from doctors. I will miss him dearly and I will keep all of his family in my prayers.
God Bless you all
Barbara Ver Planck
Henderson Nv
Jennifer Rogers
August 27, 2015
What a lovely man and caring Dr. he was. Please accept our deepest condolences.
Sherry Allotta
August 27, 2015
To the Plautz family
Dr. Plautz was my doctor for many years. What an incredible doctor and person. He was always so calming and caring. Your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers!
Sherry Allotta
Pat Swartzlander
August 27, 2015
My prayers and condolences to the family. Years ago my sister was called to the hospital to assist Dr Plautz with a c-section. He came to the hospital with one of his infants in an infant seat. He said he was babysitting so that Karen could have some free time to enjoy! What a guy!
Gary Atkin
August 27, 2015
My sincerest condolences to Karen and the Plautz family. He taught many valuable lessons to all of us.
Darrell & Edith DeCow
August 27, 2015
Joe was (is) my very best friend. So many fond memories of him I will cherish until I meet him again. He taught me the skill and art of Raquetball, I wanted to excel in the sport, just as he did. We spent countless hours playing in different tournaments and games. He was my mentor in so much more than this. I have always told my children that a wise man once told me, "It matters not where you are on the road of life, but the direction you are headed." Joe told me that many, many years ago. He was my dearest friend. His influence on my family and I has been profound. Joe loved his family. He told me many stories of his children. I could see his eyes shine bright as he shared them with me. His love and dedication to Karen was unwavering. He expressed that in his actions. Regardless of how much knowledge and faith I have that I will see him again, he will be greatly missed. I will miss the tamales, the pies, the Huevos Rancheros, the laughs and even the times we cried together. Joe once operated on my Sister-in-law, who he had never met. He did the infertility operation for free. She became pregnant and now has two beautiful teenagers thanks to Joe. When I learned of his passing, I went downstairs and put on "It's a Wonderful Life " not the new color version, but the unadulterated black and white version, I watched it and cried, he and I watched that movie a couple of times together. He never missed an opportunity to lift someones spirit. I watched him do many acts of charity that I will always keep in my heart, he did not want members of the ward to know the many things he did for others. I will never betray his trust in sharing those things, but I was in awe of his willingness to help others. May we all do the same. Love you Joe!
Nancy Baugh
August 27, 2015
So sorry for your loss. I worked with Dr Plautz,& loved him dearly. He will be greatly missed.
Janet Butler
August 27, 2015
Please accept my condolences on your loss. I am an Ob nurse who worked at St. Rose, he was a joy to work with and just an amazing doctor. All of us at St. Rose loved him. He will always be remembered with extreme fondness
Joel Bower
August 27, 2015
Joe was a great colleague and friend.
Susan Egan Browning
August 27, 2015
I knew Joe Plautz on at least two different areas of life. He was my first bishop and later would be my gynecologist. He was such a loving and selfless man. I remember going to his house to teach him about using the computer about genealogy. He was so well loved by all and he will be missed dearly
Yvonne M.
August 27, 2015
My sincere condolences on the loss of Dr. Plautz. He is a wonderful Doctor and I was a patient of his for over 31 years. Thank you, Dr. Plautz for the medical care. You will be missed and never forgotten! Continue to whistle while you do GOD's work!
Pat and Larry Hromiko
August 27, 2015
We love you Karen and Joseph! I'm so sorry for your loss, Karen. It was so wonderful to see you both at the Detroit reunion a few years ago; it was so good to get some distant family together again. We wish we could see you again now, but look forward to seeing you when we meet at Jesus' feet. Much love from your cousins!
Richard and Sue Hammond
August 26, 2015
Joe was a unique and wonderful man who blessed the lives of so many. He delivered our son and our granddaughter and showed up at the hospital in a Hawaiian shirt, whistling some golden oldie. His knowledge of the gospel and strong testimony made us stronger and his devotion to his family gave us something to strive for. We send our love to Karen and the family. We will miss knowing that Joe is just down the road. Much love, Richard and Sue Hammond
Paul & Queta Fox
August 26, 2015
Dear Karen,
It is with great sadness for Queta and I to hear of the passing of Joe. In 1983, during the high risk pregnancy of our son Byron 2100 miles away Sarnia, Ontario, .. Joe took the time to call us by phone to share with us his vast medical knowledge to help us understand more of what might happen. It was a call of love and comfort from a person we would not meet in person until spring 1984 when we drove to Henderson to visit Darrell & Edith DeCow. In 1989, we had the honour of having you visit our home in Sarnia. Joe took the time to make the drive from Detroit to Sarnia. What fun we had. I could never drive past Dearborn Michigan without thinking of Joe. It was where he lived as a child. Thank you, Lord for allowing us the privelege of knowing such a good man. Until we meet again, sincerely...Paul & Queta Fox....Sarnia, Ontario
Showing 1 - 46 of 46 results
800 South Boulder Highway, Henderson, NV 89015
Make a Donation
in Joseph Plautz's name
How to support Joseph's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Joseph Plautz's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
