John Nagle

1937 - 2023

Dr. John P. Nagle

February 24, 1937 - December 23, 2023

Tacoma, Washington - Dr. John Patrick Nagle, Jr., known affectionately as "Jack," passed away peacefully with his family by his side on December 23, 2023, at the age of 86. He left behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and a lifetime of achievements.

Jack was born on February 24th, 1937, in Lewiston, ID, to Zella Rose and John Patrick Nagle, Sr. Growing up in Pullman, WA, Jack was an outstanding individual from the start. As an Eagle Scout, Altar Boy, and Valedictorian of Pullman High School's Class of 1955, he set the stage for a life filled with excellence and service.

In high school, Jack was not only a scholar but also a standout athlete, lettering in football, baseball, and basketball. He continued his academic and athletic journey at Washington State University (WSU), where he lettered in baseball and football, was part of the ROTC program and a proud member of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity.

During his sophomore year at WSU, Jack met the love of his life, Myrna Ball. The two were united in marriage in 1959 at St. Patrick's Church in Tacoma, where they would build a life together filled with love, family, and shared adventures.

After completing his undergraduate studies, Jack pursued a career in medicine, attending the University of Washington Medical School. He graduated in 1963 and was commissioned as an officer in the US Army, embarking on a journey that would shape his future in cardiology. His medical training included an internship at Letterman General Hospital at the Presidio in San Francisco, CA and an internal medicine residency at Brooke General Hospital in San Antonio, TX. Jack then returned to Letterman General Hospital in 1968 for a cardiology fellowship and concluded his time there as the Assistant Chief of Cardiology.

Jack completed his Army service as a Lieutenant Colonel and moved the family back to Tacoma, WA in 1971, where he joined Dr. Clarence Anderson in a cardiology practice. Together with Dr. Anderson, Dr. Gail Strait, and Dr. Gene Lapin, they established Cardiac Study Center in 1973, contributing significantly to the field of cardiology in the region.

Throughout his career, Jack was a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, and a member of The North Pacific Society of Internal Medicine.

As a vital force and pioneer of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program in Tacoma, he selflessly served the community. His commitment to helping patients recover from heart disease saved thousands of lives over many years. The Morgan Family YMCA will carry on Jack's legacy for years to come, honoring his outstanding contribution and dedication.

Regardless of Jack's achievements in the medical field, Jack will be remembered for his fine character, big blue eyes, and quiet charm. He was a reserved man who ironically wanted to be a part of it all. Humility was core to his character, most likely due to having grown up with three bright and confident sisters. Jack adored his wife Myrna who was closest to his heart for 64 years. The love he shared for their children was shown through enthusiastically supporting all their academic endeavors, life adventures and sporting events, regardless of his lively and active career. He loved skiing, golfing, jogging, biking, and participating in various intramural sports as an adult. Jack was an avid supporter of his alma mater, the WSU Cougars. He and Myrna were WSU football season ticket holders for 40 years and members of the WSU Presidents Association.

Jack is survived by his wife of 64 years, Myrna, and their children Laure Drago (Jim), Mike Nagle (Sarah), Colleen Prinster (Jason), and Shannon Sandri (Kevin). He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Peggy, and son Pat.

Jack will be remembered not only for his contributions to the field of cardiology but also for his warmth, generosity, and love for his family, extended family, and friends. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the enduring impact he made on the medical landscape of Tacoma.

A celebration of life for Jack will be held on Sunday, February 25th, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, at the Fircrest Golf Club (1500 Regents Blvd, Fircrest, WA).

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to be directed to the Morgan Family YMCA in honor of Dr. Nagle's lifetime commitment to helping people overcome heart disease. (https://www.ymcapkc.org/locations/morgan-family-ymca)