Dr. George Ichiro Ogura

Leader and Father of Forensic Pathology Dies at 100 Dr. George Ogura passed away peacefully in Champaign, Illinois on May 19, 2018. Dr. Ogura met one of his many personal goals in life, to reach his 100th birthday. He was born on October 3, 1917 in Stockton, California and the Ogura family moved to Conejos, Colorado when George was a young boy. Dr. Ogura had a distinguished career in the field of Forensic Pathology that spanned over 40 years. He was the leader of a group of highly respected pathologists that served on staff at Denver Health (then known as Denver General), including Dr. Henry Toll, Dr. Ben Miyahara, Dr. Don Clark, and Dr. Ben Galloway. Dr. Ben Galloway is the only surviving member of this group of distinguished early forensic pathologists in the state and says this about his lifelong mentor, ""Not only was he the leader and father of forensic pathology in the state, region and country, he was my personal mentor and compass for how to live my life. He often spoke of basic equations, to George that meant seek the truth in all you do."" Other long-time friends of over 50 years include Paul Husted of Ft. Collins and Dr. Dave Claassen of Denver. Dr. Claassen will remember his generous nature that made him a friend to many, ""His energy belied his age...those who knew him were indeed blessed and will never forget him.” George received his Medical Degree from CU Medical School in 1942. He served in the Air Force as a Major and was stationed in Wiesbaden, Germany for two years. While distinguished in his medical career, George had many interests outside of medicine. He loved water rafting, mountain climbing, bird watching, and skiing. His extensive travels also kindled an interest in anthropology and archaeology. His passion for the outdoors was matched by his love of the arts, including opera and classical music - but also stretched to a passion for his Denver Broncos. He was recognized very recently as one of the longest time season ticket holders, and particularly loved his seat location in the south stands. George is survived by his sister Alice Ogura Sato and brother in law Shozo Sato. He is preceded in death by his wife, Marvis Shearon Ogura, of 33 years; his father, Toyosuke Ogura and mother, Saki Morita Ogura, both from Kagoshima, Japan; siblings: Elsie Ogura, Irene Ogura, Mary Akahoshi, Dorothy Matsushima and Milton Ogura. Though George and Marvis had no children together, they were second parents to their many nieces and nephews, and to many of their friends' children. It is impossible to quantify the great number of people whose lives were influenced and improved by Marvis and George. A Buddhist Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday May 30th at 10:30AM at Highland Cemetery 10201 North Grant Street, Thornton, CO 80229. Please share memories of George and condolences with his family in the guestbook below.