George Frederick Gross

George Frederick Gross passed away surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of service, faith, and dedication to medicine.

George was born on November 23, 1941, in San Francisco, California, to Maybelle and George Perkins Gross. He attended Commodore Sloat School, Aptos Junior High School, and Lincoln High School. As a young man, George was active at St. Francis Episcopal Church, where he sang in the boys’ choir and served as an acolyte, eventually becoming senior acolyte.

He attended Stanford University and later Stanford Medical School, earning his MD in June 1967. That same year he married Helen Richardson, and the couple moved to Portland, Oregon, where George completed his internship and residency. He went on to become a surgeon with Oregon Surgical Consultants and practiced for many years at Good Samaritan Hospital. George was widely respected for his surgical skill, professionalism, and passion for caring for patients. After serving in numerous medico-political leadership roles, he became president of the medical staff in 1991.

George and Helen raised three sons—Joseph, William, and Charles. In 1994, George retired from surgical practice so that he and Helen could travel together and enjoy the next chapter of life. Helen later developed ALS and passed away in February 2003.

In October 2004, George married longtime friend Carole Okoneski at Christ Church in Lake Oswego. At the church he served faithfully as a Eucharistic Minister and vestry member. George considered it a privilege to read the scriptures and offer the Lord’s chalice.

He was an active member of the University Club, the North Pacific Surgical Society, the May Day Group, a Wednesday night tennis group, and a walking group, enjoying both companionship and activity throughout his life.

From childhood, George had a deep passion for trains, particularly the great, powerful steam engine locomotives. Riding trains and building model railroads kept that enthusiasm alive throughout his life.

George is survived by his wife, Carole; his sons Joe, Bill, and Chad; and his grandchildren Jack, Sarah, Tim, and Michael.

He will be remembered for his devotion to family, his faith, his distinguished medical career, and the warmth and curiosity with which he approached life.

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