Joseph Richard Gurnick, M.D., “Joe”, age 91, formerly of Las Curses New Mexico and El Paso Texas passed away Tuesday, February 4, 2020. He was a graduate of Oakwood High School, Dayton, Ohio in 1946, and continued his education by completing a bachelor of Science from University of Dayton in 1950. Joe attended Loyola University of Chicago, Illinois where he received a Medical degree specializing in pediatric medicine. After completing two years in the Army, he began his journey practicing medicine in Dayton, where his desire to provide medical care led him to the desert southwest. He established one of the first pediatric practices in Las Cruces, and later expanding his pediatric practice to El Paso while spear heading the Santa Teresa Medical Clinic, serving low income families. Joe continued his professional career as a medical doctor; working for the New Mexico State University Student Health Center, as well as the Team Physician for the NMSU Aggies, and then as the Director of Student Health Services for the University of Texas El Paso.
Joe and former wife, Mary K. Gurnick-Radwanski raised five beautiful children. Joe’s children reside throughout the United States; Michael of Chesterfield, VA., Steven of Cave Creek, AZ., Katherine of Virginia Beach, VA., Robert of Gig Harbor, WA. and Susan of Aurora, CO., along with nine grandchildren and one great grand child. He was preceded in death by his wife Marcia Scott Gurnick of Las Cruces, parents; Irene and Joseph A. Gurnick and brothers; Robert and Jerry Gurnick and his grandson Joshua.
Joe was an avid outdoors man, enjoying Quail hunting with his French Brittany Spaniels, and farming his small pecan grove outside Las Cruces. He embraced living in the southwest with his home adorned with western memorabilia, collectible cookbooks, and planting seasonal gardens. His love for animals from the early days was exhibited by his collection of Bison art. As an avid reader, Joe’s intellectual ability followed him throughout his life inspiring all who came into contact with him. He was especially fond of conversing with others in the medical field. Joe’s ultimate joy was demonstrated through his love for children, embracing his own grandchildren watching them grow and thrive. He was very proud of his family and will be missed.
This spring the Gurnick family shall celebrate the life and legacy of their beloved father at a grave side service in El Paso, Texas at the National Cemetery, at Fort Bliss. He will be laid to rest, next to his wife of twenty-five years Marcia.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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