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Welby Bigelow Obituary
Jan 24,1928 - Sept 1,2013
Resident of Walnut Creek
Welby W. Bigelow, Jr., M.D.
Passed away September 1, 2013 at his Walnut Creek home surrounded by his loving family.
Welby was born in Murray, Utah, in 1928, the third generation of physicians.
He graduated with a chemistry degree from the University of Utah, became a radio corpsman in the U.S. Army, and followed with a two year Mormon mission. In 1959, he graduated from UCSF School of Medicine. He opened his medical practice in Concord in 1961. He gained the respect of his peers and was appointed chief of staff at Mt. Diablo Medical Center in 1970. For 50 years he ministered to his patients with diligent and thoughtful diagnostic skill.
He found time to travel with Barbara, and encouraged his family to ski and engage in active sports, garden, attend the theater, play bridge, and golf. For 25 years he was Northgate High School's football "Doc".
He leaves his wife, Barbara of 54 years, and three children: Michael (Patti), Juliane (Brian Mandarich, fiance), Brian (Audrey Gee), and 6 grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, David in Utah and Grant in Washington State, and their families.
His community, friends, patients, and especially his family will miss him deeply. He was a kind gentle man, always caring, accountable, and ready to help wherever he was needed.
The family suggest memorial donations to Save Mt. Diablo, 1901 Olympic Blvd., Walnut Creek 94596
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Welby Bigelow
August 5, 2014
My Mom was just bringing up how great a Doctor he was and I decided to type in the name So sorry for the loss of a great Doctor and Man . It has been just about a year and I hope the Family is holding on to the great memories. Former patient. Michelle McIntire
Zack Medinas
September 21, 2013
Mr. Bigelow. It was great swimming in your pool, and playing in your house with your children while growing up. When I think back to my childhood you, and your family were a wonderful highlight. I remember your porsche you drove back then too. I just got off the phone with my dad and he and my mother had many fond things to say about you and your family. Cheers to you on a life well lived and thanks for the memories...
Jen Turner
September 21, 2013
One of the best men I've ever known. I was honored to work for Dr. B. for ten years and it was a wonderful experience to watch the gentle way he cared for his patients. I loved him dearly and I'm so sad to hear of his passing. He was the epitome of a gentleman in every way. God speed Dr. B.
Dana Slauson MD
September 20, 2013
I was so sorry to hear of our loss of Dr. Bigelow. He was one of my first mentors and has been an inspiration to me my entire professional life. He was a "real" family doctor and did it all. It was a blessing to have known him. My best wishes to his family. He certainly will be missed.
John VanLandingham
September 19, 2013
Dr. Bigelow, you were a kind and patient practitioner when I was your patient nearly 28 years ago. I always appreciated how you were careful to differentiate my ailment from my complaint by carefully listening and observing. Goodbye but not forgotten,
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