Douglas D. Grose, M.D.

Doug passed away May 16th after a long and valiant battle with cancer.

A 10 1/2# bundle of joy was born to Joseph Boyd Grose and Rhea Jean Duckworth on October 30, 1944.  Grew up in the idyllic small town of Magna where everyone knew each other and raising children was a communal effort.  He and his inseparable brother, Andy, roamed the hills and town.  When their hi-jinx went a little too far, someone's mama would call their mama and ruin their day.  Lived close to his grandparents, his aunts, uncles and cousins who all played a pivotal part, life was good.  Raising chickens, riding horses.  He had an abundance of fond memories.  

Attended Judge Memorial, excelled as a student.  His dad wouldn't let him play football, he wanted to be part of the team so he became the first male Judge cheerleader.  Received the Utah Boys' State certificate of Merit from the American Legion, was a national candidate for Catholic Youth Organization.  Accepted at Stanford, but due to financial constraints, attended and graduated from the University of Utah College of Medicine in 1969, at age 25 in general practice. Between his studies at the U of U, he played piano for the practice classes at the U's Ballet department, working with his friend and renowned Musical Director, James (“Jimmy”) Prigmore.  He spoke of those times often.

Set up his private practice after graduation in a small office on South Temple.  Unassuming, unconventional, yet diagnostically brilliant, he appeared to patients in long hair, beard, sweater, corduroy pants and moccasins, carrying an old cigar box as his wallet.  He was a doctor to many of the underserved, many with no ability to pay.  Assisted in surgeries, Emergency room, and affiliated with the old Holy Cross Hospital and St. Mark's Hospital. As times changed, he transitioned to St. Marks Family Care Center.  

During his private practice, he served in the Air Force Reserves, sworn in by his brother, Edward.  As Captain of the Tactical Clinic, overseeing physical exams, medical consultant, Pharmacy Officer, biological agents Destruction Officer, he was well respected and had a excellent rapport with the younger Airmen, readying them for mobilization. Also, served the community at the Haven home, helping those struggling with substance abuse.

Traded his attire to a suit and tie, clean shaven, morphing into the Associate Medical Director for the western region of the U.S. Postal Service for 22 years. In 1993 received his certificate for Occupational Medicine, and in 1994 received a degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin for Master of Public Health. He retired in 2011.

Doug's happy place was sailing the east coast to west coast and the Great Salt Lake, giving him decades of pleasure and peace.  Windsurfing, racquetball, skiing, yoga and years of learning Tai Chi forms and martial arts, playing piano all contributed to his mental and physical wellness.  Avid runner, including the St. George Marathon several times.  It was hard to give up those pleasures when his health declined.  His children presented him with his first and then subsequent I-Pads, so he could explore the world online.  He FaceTimed his kids weekly.  He looked forward to the daily FaceTime with his brother, Andy and weekly calls with his brother, Charles, and connecting with his favorite sister, Helen. 

Married Diane Cafarelli in 1966.  Together they had four beautiful children.  Divorced.  

Married Jeri and together they had two children.

Although, not perfect in his early parenting, regretting not being more present and a better role model, his children were always the most loved and important part of his life. To forgive is divine and he was thankful for their unselfish comfort, support, love and care his children provided over the years.

Devoted son and caregiver, he was preceded by his parents, his big brother, Edward.

Survived by Jeri, Diane, children, Corri (Jim), Jean, Joe (Kristin), Rachel (Ed), Douglas, Edward. Eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; many loved nieces and nephews.  His brothers, Andy (JoAnn Avery), Charles (Susie) and his sister, Helen (Joe).  Thank you, best buddy, and other brother, Juan (Eileen) for over 60 years of adventures and a devoted, and non judgmental friendship.  Special thanks to Dr. Litton, Louise, Anita, Nurses and the front line team at UCS, whose care, smiles, and encouragement lifted his spirit for many years. Thanks to 1st Choice Home Health and Hospice for his care in his last weeks.

A celebration of life will be on Thursday, May 23 from 6-8 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, Ut. Guests are encouraged to use parking and entrance located on the north side of the building. Please come as you are; Hawaiian shirts smiled upon!

Doug will be laid to rest on Thursday, May 30 at 12:00 PM at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 275 U St, Salt Lake City, Ut.