Gary Denton Kitchell

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Gary Denton Kitchell, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.
Gary had an amazing and remarkable life and his most cherished adventure was being a devoted dad. He felt truly blessed to have three amazing sons who grew from energetic talented, and mischievous boys into remarkable young men. They were his greatest source of pride.
Gary was born on May 21, 1953, in Franklin, New Jersey and was admired for his passion, dedication, and kindness. A talented athlete at Franklin High School, he excelled in three sports and served as captain of the football, wrestling, and track and field teams during his senior year. Following graduation, he pursued higher education at Springfield College in Massachusetts, where he earned his graduate degree while playing football and tennis. He later advanced his studies at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, obtaining an Advanced Certification in Physical Therapy. Additionally, Gary was a proud member of the USIC team, competing in international tennis competitions against Belgium, Canada, and the Bahamas.
In 1981, Gary founded the Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation Clinic in Sparta, New Jersey, which was recognized by The Wall Street Journal as one of the top 5 physical therapy clinics in the nation. He treated over 575 athletes a week, from aspiring ballerinas to elite professionals in the NFL, PGA, LPGA, WTA, ATP, and collegiate sports. His expertise and compassionate care earned him an outstanding reputation in the field of sports rehabilitation.
In the late 1980's, Gary began working with professional tennis players, a journey that led him to become one of the most respected tennis physical therapists in the world. For 35 years, he divided his time between Sparts, New Jersey and Vero Beach, Florida, providing treatment and training to athletes in both locations. In 1993, he made Florida his permanent home.
A USPTA-certified tennis professional with extensive knowledge of biomechanics, Gary was sought after by injured players from around the globe. His career took him to over 50 countries as he provided care to the sport's greatest champions. He worked with players that collectively has won over 200 Grand Slam titles, including 25 number one players in the world ~ more than anyone in the history of Tennis.
Gary described his life as blessed, grateful, and remarkable, often expressing deep appreciation for the trust his players placed in him. He credited his parents for instilling in him the values of working hard, being ethical, kind, generous, and a commitment to helping others.
Beyond his processional achievements, Gary was an avid golfer and a member of several prestigious clubs, including Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club, The Cliffs in North and South Carolina, Newton Country Club, and Crystal Springs Golf Club. He was also a proud Founding Member of Quail Valley Golf Club in Vero Beach, where he shared in the vision of creating a truly special club alongside Steve Mulvey and Kevin Given.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey H. Kitchell, Jr. and Florence Victoria Clark Kitchell, as well as his brother, Robert D. Kitchell. He is lovingly remembered by his former wife, Dr. Maria-Elena Kitchell and their three sons: Ryan (Erin) Kitchell, Dr. Collin (Dr. Meredith) Kitchell and Denton Kitchell. He was also a proud grandfather to his two cherished granddaughters, Currin and Reis. Among his greatest companions was Kobe, his beloved Yorkshire Terrier, who held a special place in his heart.
A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, Gary would love for you to honor his memory by adopting a pet.