Dietmar Gann

August 2, 1941 – April 24, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Dietmar Gann, a beloved cardiologist and a cherished member of our Tucson community. Dr. Gann was born in Germany and later migrated to the United States, where he established a long and successful career as a medical professional, contributing immensely to the betterment of the lives of countless people. Among his many medical accomplishments, Dr. Gann is credited with performing Tucson’s first Streptokinase, first coronary angioplasty, first medicated stents, first aortic valvuloplasty, first atherectomy, and first dual-chamber pacemaker implant. In addition, he authored over 45 scientific papers.

Beyond his remarkable contributions as a doctor, Dr. Gann was also an avid mountain climber who conquered, to name a few, Mt. Elbrus (Russia), Mt. Kilimanjaro (Africa), Mt. Blanc (France), Mt. Ararat (Turkey), The Matterhorn (Switzerland), Mt. Aconcagua (Argentina), and three volcanoes in Mexico – Iztaccihuatl, Chichinautzin, and Popocatepetl. One challenge that he valiantly completed was a trek, on snowshoes, to the North Pole.

Dr. Gann shared some of these, and many other exhilarating adventures, with his beloved wife Elizabeth. Upon retirement from his cardiology practice, they also embarked on an exceptionally successful medical journey together, when they founded the Diet of Hope Institute. To this day, the Diet of Hope Institute continues to change and improve lives.

He was a loving father to two daughters; the eldest, Eva (James) and one granddaughter, Audrey. He was predeceased by his youngest daughter Valeska. Dietmar was also a loving father to Kari (Ismael), and Stephanie (Steven), and embraced a family of wonderful grandchildren who loved and adored their Opa; Ismael III, Christian, Sebastian, Steven, Seidy, Saint, Sinzere. Our family and community have lost an exceptional human being whose kindness, joy, and charisma impacted the lives of all who knew him. His profound wisdom and selfless nature will continue to inspire and motivate us all.

The tremendous impact he made on this world, and the incredible life he lived, have left a legacy that will continue to shine bright. His life was a testament to the power of compassion and care, and his memory will endure forever in our hearts. He will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Dr. Gann’s memory, to the Southern Arizona Roadrunners, or to the Diet of Hope Institute (designated for the “Christmas in July” children’s program.)