We take a moment to honor the memory of our esteemed members and colleagues who have passed away, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and compassion in the field of medicine. Their contributions have profoundly impacted countless lives, and their absence will be deeply felt within our community. As we reflect on their lives, let us remember the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson: "To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die." We encourage all members to share their memories and tributes, celebrating the remarkable individuals who have shaped our society and inspired us all.
Gary Frans Gilbertson, MD
Member Since February 5, 1975 - 48 Years
Dr. Gary Frans Gilbertson, 85, departed this life on May 25, 2024.
Born at home on the family farm in Kanabec County, Minnesota, Gary received his early education in a one-room schoolhouse before attending University High School in Minneapolis. He graduated with honors from college and medical school at the University of Minnesota, while working as a cook, truck driver and orderly. After completing an internship in Morgantown, West Virginia, he served in the U.S. Navy before returning to the University of Minnesota to complete two surgical residencies.
In 1975, he moved with his young family to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he built a practice in colon and rectal surgery. A skilled surgeon, he practiced the art of healing, taking care to treat the whole patient. He tended to men and women from every walk of life with the same kindness and compassion, making himself available at all hours of the day and night, never concerning himself with a person's ability to pay. Throughout his life, he remained true to his roots and did not flaunt his success or achievements.
He was an avid and accomplished windsurfer, enjoying time spent with his son at Keystone Lake and later on Padre Island. Among the happiest years of his retirement were those spent RV'ing and teaching trail dance with his wife at Carefree Country Club. He had a keen intellect and shared a love of investing with his daughter. He was proud of all of his family, and particularly his grandchildren, whom he treasured and was grateful to see grow into adulthood.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Alice; his daughter, Kristin; his son, Erik; and his grandchildren, Courtney and Matthew (Emily). He lives forever in the hearts of those who loved him.
Michael Rowe Harkey, MD
Member since January 11, 1974 - 49 Years
Michael was born in Oklahoma City on July 24, 1945. He played football through elementary and high school. He became a lifelong University of Oklahoma fan, and all who knew him knew not to call him during an Oklahoma football game.
He was accepted to medical school after only two years of undergraduate school and went on to do his post graduate training at several prestigious schools on the east coast. He became a well-respected surgical pathologist, but his love for the Midwest took him back to Oklahoma where he practiced as a pathologist and a lab director for 41 years. In addition, he loved to mentor young pathologists.
His life in Oklahoma also led him naturally down the path of bird hunting, which he loved to tell stories about. In his last years, he enjoyed and loved his hunting dogs as much as the hunting. He also came to love his home in the New Mexico mountains, watching the elk and deer, as well as the occasional bear.
At the top of his list of love and importance was his love for his wife of 56 years, Linda. His pride in his two children, Owen and Morgan was evident when he spoke of them, as was his love for his grandchildren, Austin, Averie, Alec, and his great-grandchild, Uriah. He was also very fond of Carrie (Owen’s wife), Mica (Austin’s wife), and Justus (Averie’s husband).
Mike passed away on October 12, 2023, and will be missed by all he crossed paths with.
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