David Alan Depp, M.D.

"David Alan Depp died of cancer after a courageous battle on May 11, 2017, at the age of 74. He was born on October 26, 1942 to the late Dr. O. R. Depp and Alma Cates Depp. David graduated from Isidore Newman School, Tulane University, and Tulane Medical School and began his surgical career at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. David served in the USNR as a ship surgeon on the U.S.S. Enterprise and was discharged as a Lieutenant Commander before returning to Louisiana with his wife Karen to raise their family. David loved his work as a thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon, and after retiring found new joy in mentoring Tulane University medical students through a program at the Baton Rouge General. David was an authentic man of great intelligence, and treated his own cancer diagnosis with an intellectual curiosity that was remarkable under the circumstances. When he was not actively practicing medicine or teaching, David loved nothing more than puttering in his garden, surrounded by birds, bees and his beloved canine companions. He is preceded in death by his parents and one grandson, Joshua Alexander (1993-1995) and survived by his wife of 49 years, two daughters Kristin and Natalie (Charlie Rasco), two granddaughters, Hannah Cates and Lucy Sterling Bernick, and his dog Buddy, all of whom will miss him dearly. He is also survived by his five siblings, O.R. Ill, Diane, Douglas, John Donovan, Debra, his stepmother Beverly, and their families, whom he loved dearly. On Monday, May 15, visitation will be held at 11:00 am followed by services at 12:00 pm at Rabenhorst Funeral Home at 825 Government Street, downtown. All are welcome to attend and take part in celebrating David's life. The family wishes to express great thanks to Dr. Depp's treatment team and everyone who has had a hand in extending his life, most especially Dr. M. Patrick Stagg, who was also his trusted friend. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Joseph Hospice (10615 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70809) or Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge (550 Lobdell Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70806).