On Monday, August 7, 2023, Dr. John Ochsner Gage departed this world peacefully in his home. Born on December 30, 1941, in New Orleans, LA, to his father, Dr. Idys Mims Gage, and his mother, Jane Pharr Gage, John grew up to receive his pre-med degree at Centre College in Danville, KY. After receiving this degree, Dr. Gage continued to pursue his passion for the medical sciences and attended Tulane University Medical School. During his residency at Charity Hospital through Louisiana State University's residency program, Dr. Gage focused and specialized in general and vascular surgery. Before embarking on his illustrious career in private practice, Dr. Gage served as a physician in the US Navy and spent time aboard the USS Kitty Hawk.

On September 22, 1980, Dr. Gage began his 33-year career at West Florida Hospital. During this time, Dr. Gage became a member of the Southern Surgical Association, served as an officer for the American College of Surgeons, was a founding member of the AMA's Physician Relative Update Committee, and was a chair of the ACS General Surgery Coding and Reimbursement Committee. In addition to his other accolades, Dr. Gage was honored to be the youngest member of the ACS to receive the Distinguished Service Award for his outstanding professional achievements in the field of general and vascular surgery. The full extent of Dr. Gage's professional and medical achievements is almost as limitless as the impact he left on the medical field.

Behind the honors and awards, at his root, Dr. Gage was a talented surgeon known for his innovation and distinction as a surgeon. For his co-workers, he was a leader, teacher, mentor, and pioneer. For his patients, Dr. Gage was relatable, trustworthy, dedicated, and kind. He worked tirelessly to not only save lives but to also improve the practice of medicine. When it came to his patients and his practice, Dr. Gage did not blindly rely on the techniques that were current or new; rather, he focused on the treatment that would work best for his patients. Above all else, the most important factor in his mind was the best possible outcome for those under his trusted care. His dedication to the advancement of medicine led him to be invited to teach at Florida State University College of Medicine.

Time and time again, colleagues, just like his patients, not only liked Dr. Gage, but they also loved and trusted him. Whenever other doctors, nurses, or techs doubted themselves, Dr. Gage gave them the encouragement and confidence they needed to perform at the highest level in their field. For his peers, he opened their minds and challenged them to become better every day. For over thirty years, West Florida Hospital and West Florida Medical Center were his stomping grounds and during that time, 5 North and ICU became as close to him as his family.

When Dr. Gage wasn't in scrubs, he loved spending time with his loved ones. He enjoyed cooking, light travel, and meeting new people. He was a generous man and helped anyone in need. He had a zest for life and lived his to the fullest extent. He will be missed but will live on in the hearts of those honored to have known him.

Dr. Gage is preceded in death by his father, Dr. Idys Mims Gage; mother, Jane Pharr Gage; sister, Katherine; and brother, Mims Gage.

Dr. Gage is survived by his wife, Melodie Sillings Gage; his sons, Julian and Trevor Gage; his nurse of 16 years, Hilda Brazel and her family; as well as his many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Memorial visitation will be held 1:00pm until a memorial service to begin at 2:00pm Saturday, August 19, 2023, at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, www.t2t.org