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L. George Veasy
1923 - 2021
L. George Veasy
1923 - 2021
Obituary
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L. Veasy Obituary
1923 - 2021
L. George Veasy, M.D., age 97, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2021 of natural causes.
Born March 20, 1923 in Rexburg, Idaho, he was the son of George Baxter Veasy and Hazel Lloyd Veasy. Following high school, George moved to Salt Lake City to attend the University of Utah, where he obtained both his bachelor and medical degrees. He would go on to fulfill an internship at Wesley Memorial Hospital in Chicago. In 1948 and newly married to Elaine Seal, they moved to Minnesota for George to complete a residency at the University of Minnesota Hospital, where he was awarded a fellowship in pediatric cardiology.
In 1951 and staying in the Upper Midwest, George enlisted in the Army and moved the family to Camp McCoy, Wisconsin. Never seeing combat in the Korean War, he was, however, asked to take charge of the military families and nearby civilians during the heavy polio outbreak. Returning to Salt Lake City following the end of the Korean War, George worked both at the county hospital and as a faculty member of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Utah School of Medicine. He left in 1959 to join the Rumel Chest Clinic. It would be the beginning of what became a dedicated career as the first board certified pediatric cardiologist in the Intermountain West, ultimately leading to his life-long association with Primary Children's Medical Center beginning in 1967. George focused his work on the care of children born with heart defects, the care of children who developed rheumatic fever and the prevention of the disease.
George was selected in 1975 to spearhead a new direction for Primary Children's as physician-in-chief, where he firmly believed, "Children needed a hospital geared to their special needs, one that concentrated solely on children." Further, he was instrumental in pursuing an affiliation between Primary Children's and the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Utah School of Medicine, in order to attract world class physicians for the children's hospital staff. Often known as "Uncle George" to many of the children and always wearing his Snoopy pin on the lapel of his starched, white physician's coat, George wanted to be a doctor as far back as he could remember. Until retiring in 1990 from patient care and in 2000 from rheumatic fever research, he was genuinely recognized by colleagues as a man dedicated to the service of others.
George was a member of the University of Utah School of Medicine faculty and the American Board of Pediatrics. Among other awards, he was the recipient of the American Heart Association's Lifetime Achievement Award, the University of Utah Distinguished Alumni Award, named Doctor of the Year in 1996 by the Utah Medical Association and was the recipient of a Presidential Endowed Chair in Pediatric Cardiology by the University of Utah School of Medicine.
A fan of a funny joke or telling many a pun, George had a wonderful sense of humor and infectious smile. His favorite way to spend leisure time was at "the Condo" in Sun Valley, Idaho, skiing with family on Baldy Mountain or in the summer playing golf. He also appreciated his golfing friendships at The Country Club in Salt Lake City. Evenings were enjoyed "drying off a couple of ice cubes" and sipping a gin & tonic. "Cheers" to a wonderful life!
George is survived by Elaine, his wife of 72 years. Together they raised three children: George D. Veasy (Danielle) Aberdeen, N.C., Ann V. Maak, Seattle, WA., and Paul D. Veasy (Stephanie). He leaves six grandchildren George M. Veasy (Jessica ), Elizabeth V. Halaufia (Brandon), Carley Maak (Dane Brandon), Jamie Maak (Joe Dennis), P. Carter Veasy (Jessica), and Patrick F. Veasy (Courtney), and six great-grandchildren.
The family would especially like to thank Liliane Haverstock, Lenira Chalegre, Magaly Gudino, and Rocky Mountain Care for their loving care of George in his final years.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, a private family graveside service is being held. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Primary Children's Medical Center, Primary Children's Dept. #2672223, P.O. Box 26722, SLC, UT 84126, or a charity of your choice.
Cindy Powell
November 11, 2021
I worked many years with Dr. Veasy at Primary Children´s hospital . He was such a great doctor and such a kind man! I admire him so!
Rest well Dr. George!
With love and condolences..
Cindy
Jill Rhead
November 10, 2021
I had the distinct pleasure of working with Dr. Veasy doing medical illustrations for several papers and presentations on the mitral valve and rheumatic fever. He was always so fun to be around because of his sharp wit and good humor and I thoroughly enjoyed our visits/meetings. Out of the many physicians with whom I've collaborated, he sticks out in my mind as one of the gems in the profession. He will be greatly missed.
Joey Galberth
July 31, 2021
I was sorry to hear of Uncle Georges passing. He was my doctor when I was born in 1983 and was operated on at 36 hours old. I loved his humor and he was always so gentle and caring. Even when I got older and he wasn´t my doctor anymore whenever I was at the hospital for a checkup he would stop by and see me. Not sure how he always knew that I was there. He was a one of a kind.
Teri M Jorgensen
February 12, 2021
Dr. George "Uncle George....I am so sad to hear of your passing. You saved my son..Nathan back in 1985ish. You were always the light of our many visits to PCH. RIP you are with many angels now. Much love to your family, thank you for shaing him with us.
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Susan Rydz
February 9, 2021
Dr Veasy was my cardiologist from age 5-9 when I had surgical repair of my heart defect. I remember actually enjoying going to the doctor because he made me feel so comfortable. He was confident, caring and reassuring to a scared child.
Later, after saving my life, he was one of the Doctors who presented me with my Medical School diploma from the University of Utah.
I truly feel that I and my family would not be here without Dr. Veasy.
Condolences to the family and know that he was a gifted doctor who made a huge difference to me and my family and countless other children and their families.
Susan Rydz M.D.
Dixie Thompson
February 9, 2021
Dear Veasy family,
I still remember Dr. Veasy whenever I happen by the elevators and stairways at Primary Children’s Hospital. I don’t know if he ever waited for an elevator? It was always a smile and a brisk walk up the stairs.
Thank you to his family for sharing him with the rest of us.
Dixie D. Thompson
University of Utah
(Old NICU/Research RN)
Jesse Fox
February 8, 2021
My name is Jesse Fox. I became a pediatric intern in 1974 at the University of Utah and Primary Children’s Hospital. It was there I met and loved Dr. Veasy. I never had a mentor who was as good, or as kind, as he was to me. He was so smart, dapper, and sophisticated (he once gave me a tie after a rotation with him to subtly tell me that I had done a good job but needed to dress more professionally). He used to call me “Jesse ol’ Fox” and lovingly taught me so very much. As a practicing pediatrician in SLC, he continued to love and mentor me up until his retirement (and even after when he did research on Rheumatic Fever). When he turned his job as Physician in chief over to the Department of Pediatrics, he cemented the future of now PCMC. It was so unselfish and literally created the future path of the highest level of care for children here. His legacy is gigantic. I used to pass that large portrait of him that hangs in the 3rd floor lobby and salute it. It (and he) meant the world to me. I loved him. He is a hero to me. I will never forget all he did for me and for the children of the Intermountain West. What a giant. His loss is huge to me. My prayers are with you.
sandra phillips
February 8, 2021
My heartfelt condolences to your whole family. Dr Veasy was such a role model for me as a resident doctor at Primary Children's Medical Center. He was such a caring and compassionate healer, a caring person, and always smiling! I have fond memories of him joining in on rounds here and there and always adding so much knowledge and a good story or two.
He was a doctor to strive to be like and I feel honored to have learned from one of the best.
Cynthia Powell
February 8, 2021
I worked as an RN at Primary Children’s Hospital in the 1970’s and ‘80’s with Dr. Veasy. He was one of the people that I admire most that I was able to work with and learn from. He epitomizes the phrase” The child first and always “, that the hospital uses today.
Condolences to his family and friends.
Cindy Dix Powell
Nori Arambula Jones
February 8, 2021
Dr. Veasy saved my life! I am 66 years old and was born with a heart defect. My parents were told I would not live past age 5. We lived in Carbon County in a small coal mining community. My mother would take me to "baby clinics" for check ups by Dr. Veasy. At age 12 Dr. Veasy was convinced he could save my life. He proceeded to drive to our small town and convince my Father that he could help me. We could not afford the cost of the surgery and our insurance would not pay, because it was experimental. He found a way for us to afford the surgery. Words cannot express my gratitude and appreciation to this man. I think he was one of the most wonderful people God put on this earth. Thank you. PS, My son had the same condition and he saved his life too! He is 42.
Lynne Nielsen Carlquist
February 7, 2021
I recall hearing kind remarks about Dr. Veasy from my father Adolph M Nielsen, MD. I believe they both received training at Wesley Memorial in Chicago and then later often collaborated at the LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City.
We extend our sincere condolences!
Marilou Kundmueller
February 7, 2021
I worked with Dr. Veasy at PCMC for many years as a nurse in the ICU and as a medical illustrator. Always quick with a shoulder hug, twinkle in his eye, and, yes, the infectious smile he was the epitome of what it meant to be a true caregiver. He was my favorite. We were so lucky to have him.
Don and Marilyn Taylor
February 7, 2021
Dr Veasy was our son’s pediatric cardiologist from the time he was 3 months old until he was a medical student at the University of Utah. He is now a practicing Pediatrician in Indiana. His wife’s grandparents were good friends with the Veasys. Dr. Veasy attended our son’s wedding in 1990...... very special for our family. Such a special man who did so much for so many!!!
Lisa Kelly Bouillon
February 7, 2021
Bless Dr. Veasy. A genuine man that showed so much kindness for so many years to my twin sister Lora Jane Kelly who had Downs Syndrome. I remember when he was being honored at the American Heart Association Gala and they asked Lora to speak. She was so honored and excited to thank him. He was never rushed at appointments and answered any question my mom might have had. Thank you to each family member for sharing him. God Bless you all!
Lisa Kelly Bouillon
February 7, 2021
Bless Dr. Veasy for showing years of kindness to my twin sister Lora Jane who had down syndrome. He always took time to answer any questions my mom had. I remember when he asked Lora to speak at the American Heart Association Gala with him when he was honored. He touched so many lives in so many ways. Thank you for sharing him! Thoughts and prayers with each family member.
Alice Nichols
February 7, 2021
My deepest condolences to Dr Veasy’s Family. He was my daughter’s heart Dr. I remember so well I would take for her appointment at the hospital and she was very small. Dr Veasy would come out to the waiting room and get her. He was so very kind and loving to her she always smiled when she would see him. We still talk about him.
Robbin Garramone
February 7, 2021
I am so sad to read of Dr. Veasy's passing. I had many visits with him for my son over the years. Kind gentle man.
Christy Chatelain
February 6, 2021
Uncle George was an amazing doctor and friend that is partly responsible for the fact I’m still here today. I thought our relationship ended in 1980 when he gave me a clean bill of health at the age of 12, but then my little brother came along and he too had heart issues and spent several months at Primary Children’s Hospital. I am forever grateful for Dr. Veasy’s talents as a doctor, his amazing attitude and bedside manner with children, and his dedication to his passion and career. I think of Uncle George often with fondness. Sending hugs to the family!
Christy Chatelain
February 6, 2021
Uncle George was an amazing doctor and friend that is partly responsible for the fact I’m still here today. I thought our relationship ended in 1980 when he gave me a clean bill of health at the age of 12, but then my little brother came along and he too had heart issues and spent several months at Primary Children’s Hospital. I am forever grateful for Dr. Veasy’s talents as a doctor, his amazing attitude and bedside manner with children, and his dedication to his passion and career. I think of Uncle George often with fondness. Sending hugs to the family!
Jerald
February 5, 2021
Dr. Veasy saved my life as a one year old in 1983. I owe this man more than I could ever repay. 38 years uncle! I will do my best to get 93! Cheers to a great man and wonderful life! Thank you so much for your example and charity! And that steady eye!
Diane Grose
February 5, 2021
R.I.P., Dr. George Veasy, in God’s loving embrace & may His perpetual light & love forever shine upon you, your family, & loved ones ❣❣❣
Dr. Veasy, you took such great care of my daughter when she was an infant, until she was probably 6...she’s 48 yrs now.
My sincerest condolences to his wife, children, & loved ones.
Linda Adams DeVore
February 5, 2021
Veasy Family,
It was nice growing up across the street from your home. Your dad was so kind to our family. I remember when we moved into the neighborhood, we were brought dinner. I loved it when your dad and mom would come over to our house to visit. Your dad had a heart of gold. I remember when my youngest son was in Primary Children's Medical Hospital and your dad came to visit him, after his heart surgery. That meant so much to me. I remember when my sister, Sue, died and your dad (and mom) came to her funeral. Your dad was so caring when both of my parents died. I am sure your dad and my dad are continuing their acquaintance. Your dad lived a good and long life. May God bless your family at this time. With Love.
Philip Black
February 5, 2021
I have been blessed to be among certainly hundreds of pediatricians to have been nurtured by Dr. Veasy. After arriving in Utah in 1980, he made me feel immediately welcome and valued; I spent 7 years in training and early career in some type of contact with him. Beyond his skills in medicine lay his skills in humanity. With no intent on his part, all who knew him aspired to follow his model of compassion and generosity of spirit.
Daisy Richardson
February 5, 2021
My sympathies to the Veasy family. My mom grew up in the same neighborhood and talked fondly of Dr. Veasy and the family. I think she even babysat the kids from time to time.
CARMA SIPES BROADBENT
February 5, 2021
A great man that truly knew his patients and their family. Our walk with Dr. Veasy began with our daughter, in 1972, with a rare heart condition. She was 5 when he helped with her heart surgery. A brother was born with heart problems but could wait for heart surgery and still waits. Dr. Veasy was surprised as we had no family heart issues before them. Twice after, he took me from giving birth to being told another two sons may not survive. He made sure the staff in Primary Childrens' Hospital ICU was close by, to help me comprehend what I was facing next. In 1976, open heart surgery was an unknown for newborns, I will forever remember his phone call to express his personal condolences to us when our son passed on within 36 hours of birth. In 1985 the next son had some of the same heart problems, Dr. Veasy told the surgeon to do his best, as we had already lost one. His concern was great as most children didn't survive this heart problem. At later visits, he would always tell us "Look at him. He needed Cadilac surgery, but we only were able to do Lincoln Continental surgery!" This young boy is now 35 years old, Thank you, Dr. Veasy!
Our humble thoughts and prayers to the family that knew him as sweetheart, dad, and Doctor.
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260 East South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
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