Dr Kurt N. Gottschling, 1932–2025

Issue: BCMJ, vol. 67, No. 5, June 2025, Page 189 Obituaries
By: Gaylene Vickery

Dr Kurt Gottschling

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Dr Kurt Gottschling, who peacefully departed this life on 15 January 2025 at the age of 92. He passed away at Burnaby Hospital, surrounded by family and under the compassionate care of Dr Jamal. He has gone home to be with his Lord and Savior, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and love.

Kurt was born in the Lublin District of Poland to German parents, Luise and August Gottschling. In August 1945, following World War II, his family relocated to Hamm, Westphalia, Germany. In April 1953, they immigrated to Prince Rupert, BC, and a year later, Kurt moved to Vancouver to pursue his passion for medicine at the University of British Columbia. He graduated from UBC’s Faculty of Medicine in 1960 and completed a 1-year internship in family medicine at Vancouver General Hospital in 1961.

During his medical studies, Kurt met the love of his life, Martha Job. They married on 28 August 1959 at Ebenezer Baptist Church, building a life together rooted in love, faith, and family.

Kurt had a fulfilling and distinguished medical career. From 1961 to 2004, he maintained a thriving family practice in Burnaby, while also holding clinical privileges at Burnaby Hospital. He served as vice chief of staff at Burnaby Hospital from 1984 to 1985 and as chief of staff in 1986. From 1994 to 2002, he was an attending physician at George Derby Centre, and he later worked as a full-time surgical assistant at Burnaby Hospital and False Creek Surgical Centre, until his retirement in 2016.

Kurt was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Dr Alvin Gottschling and Dr Gerd Gottschling. He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Martha; his daughter, Gaylene, and granddaughter, Katelyn; his son, Rodney, and daughter-in-law, Eve; and his grandson, Matthew. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as many dear friends.

A man of deep faith, Kurt was devoted to his Lord, his family, his profession, and his community. His generosity, integrity, and unwavering love of life were an inspiration to all who knew him. He found great joy in gardening, home repairs, fishing trips with his brothers and cousin George, classical and gospel music, reading, and traveling. Above all, his family was his greatest treasure, and he will be deeply missed.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and care aides at George Derby Centre and Burnaby Hospital. A special thank you to Dr Jamal for his kindness and respect, which made Kurt’s final days peaceful and filled with love. The family also expresses their gratitude to Pastor Albert Baerg for his hospital visits, prayers, and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Burnaby Hospital Foundation in Dr Kurt Gottschling’s name would be greatly appreciated. A celebration of life was held at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Vancouver on 29 March 2025.
—Gaylene Vickery
Burnaby

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Gaylene Vickery. Dr Kurt N. Gottschling, 1932–2025. BCMJ, Vol. 67, No. 5, June, 2025, Page(s) 189 - Obituaries.


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