Dr. John Edward Garritty, 95

John Edward Garritty, MD, born in East Haven, Conn. June 10, 1924, was united with his Savior, Jesus Christ, on October 7, 2019. He was 95 years old. He was the son of John and Marion (Crockett) Garritty. He is survived by his loving wife, Ellen Garritty, to whom he was married for 67 years.

John spent his early years in Connecticut and Ohio. As a youngster he was a star pitcher on his high school baseball team and a fabulous euphoniumist.

During WW 2, John was drafted by the US Army. During basic training he was recognized for doing 1100 sit-ups without interruption. In need of medical doctors, the Army moved him from his engineering choice to a new pre-med program. Starting out at Syracruse University, he went on to Long Island College of Medicine and Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. From there, he did 13 months of General Practice at Stahmer’s Clinic in Wausau, WI. The US Air Force then sent him to Korea and Warren Airbase, Cheyenne, WY.

In August 1954, he opened his own private practice downtown on 5th Avenue in Antigo, WI for several years. He then moved his practice to the Antigo Medical Building, from which he retired in 2005 at the age of 82.

John played his last tennis match at the age of 92. He would want to thank all those in the community who put forth effort and made sacrifices to continue and grow this sport in Antigo.

Other survivors include 6 daughters and a son. Ruth (Don) McPhail, Janet (Mike) Lawton, Aimee (Nathan) Best, Margaret Prinsen, Susan (Ted) Johns, Karla (Tom) Fesmire, John (LoriLee) Garritty; 28 grandchildren, and 23 great-grandchildren.

John’s personal faith in Jesus Christ, being a part of the family of God, learning and growing in the truths of God’s Word, gathering together with other Bible believing Christians were very important to him. Even though John strived to answer his patients needs on physical health, he also had a great desire to lead people to spiritual health. Some of his favorite verses of truth were John 14:6. Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Luke 5: 31-32. And Jesus answered them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” He realized years ago he was sick (a sinner) and needed to repent (accept Jesus’ sacrifice and turn his life over to Christ). He had no doubt that after this life he would be absent from the body and present with the Lord. He would want to share these truths with everyone.

The family would like to give special thanks to Aspirus/LeRoyer Hospice and Strasser-Roller Funeral home for their time and many kindnesses shown during this difficult time. Condolences and Memories can be shared at www.strasserrollerfh.com.

Private services were held and he was laid to rest at Pine Grove Cemetery in Wausau, WI.