Dr. John “Doc” Green
Dr. John “Doc” Green
The world lost an extraordinary man on Tuesday, February 9th, when John "Doc" Green passed away peacefully at the St. Clare Hospice House in Baraboo. He lived 87 rich, blessed years. Doc was born on October 24, 1928 in Solway, Minnesota to parents Mabel (Brown) and John Harry Green. He spent his youth in Bemidji, Minnesota and graduated with the first class of Oak Hills Christian College. He then made his way to International Falls, MN where he worked in the paper mill, at the lake, on the railroad, and found the love of his life, Elsie Eckert. Doc was known as a teacher, researcher, mechanic, pastor, inventor, storyteller, bird-caller, jokester, and overall classy man. He was a highly intelligent man as a member of the MENSA society. He proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and later earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees while pastoring churches and raising a family in North Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa. Doc conducted pioneer biomedical research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Kentucky, and held professorships in the biology departments at Aurora College in Illinois and Huntington College in Indiana. He was instrumental in helping establish the nursing program at Aurora College. Doc and Elsie retired to Baraboo in 1990 in order to be closer to family. He enjoyed his retirement years subbing in the Baraboo School District, working in the yard, and spending time with his family. Doc was a member of New Life Community AC Church in Baraboo, where he served as an elder for many years, taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, and enjoyed visiting members in their homes.Doc was a botanist, naturalist, and scientist who had a great awe and reverence for our Creator and His creation. He blended his knowledge and faith in the two into a beautiful view of life and the world around us. He loved being outdoors, where his inquisitive nature and child-like wonder came alive. He loved being on the water in boat or canoe, was an avid fisherman and always made sure to stretch the truth on his catching. He was a teacher and mentor to students, friends, and family alike. He lived a life of love, grace, stewardship, service, and gratitude always. True to his values, he donated his body for research at the Mayo Clinic as his final act of teaching and giving. Doc never wavered in his faith and kept his sharp sense of humor through to the very end. While Doc never got around to writing his book, he sure lived it every day. Doc's family was his pride and joy. He was most happy when surrounded by family. He leaves behind his wife and best friend Elsie of 63 years, along with three sons, Tim (Carolyn), Dan (Sheila), all of Baraboo, and Dave, of Cocoa Beach, FL, and grandchildren Katie, Allyson, Zach, Sarah (Brad) and daughter Baylee Solchenberger, Amy, Kenyon, Branson, Nichole and son Weston. Doc's passing leaves an ache in our hearts, but we look forward to our joyous, eternal reunion!The Green family would like to say a special thank you to our church family, Dr. James Mathers, Dr. John Phelan, St. Clare Hospital, Home Health and Hospice, the Mayo Clinic and their staff for their loving care of Doc and Elsie. A memorial celebration of Doc's life will be held in late Spring.