Read Full Autobiography - Dr. Terry Happel - From Shining Shoes to Filling Them
Celebration of Life - October 26, 2022, 4-8 pm - more details to follow
Dr. Terry J. Happel - an iconic physician leader, friend, husband, father and grandfather - passed away on July 15, 2022 surrounded by loving family and friends. Dr. Happel served Dignity Health for more than 40 years, most recently serving as Chief Medical Officer for Chandler Regional Medical Center, a position he retired from in 2016. During his tenure, he also served as Surgery Department Chair and President of the Medical Staff, and pioneered or championed many areas of excellence for Dignity Health East Valley - including Heart, Intensive Care and Stroke Programming, a Cancer Center, Palliative Care and expansions of Norton Thoracic Institute and Barrow Neurological Institute into our market. Dr. Happel played a critical role in growing a small, neighborhood community hospital into the industry-leading Chandler Regional Medical Center, as well as advocating for the construction of Mercy Gilbert Medical Center and outpatient facilities throughout the East Valley.
Dr. Happel was incredibly intellectual and was astute at selecting the right path, with the right people, at the right time. He focused on quality at a high level, and his presence inspired many physicians and staff members who were lucky enough to work with him. Dr. Happel was smart, funny, engaging and unafraid to speak his mind. He enjoyed tremendous respect and appreciation from friends and colleagues. He was highly principled, and could always be counted on to do the right thing. A consummate servant leader, Dr. Happel focused not on personal success, but on being a person of high moral character and value. We at Dignity Health are all grateful for his numerous contributions in life, and for the legacy which we celebrate in his passing.
Dr. Happel’s family has been overwhelmed by the care and outpouring of love and condolences. Although deeply saddened by the loss, the family has been lifted up and moved to hear stories and sentiments about their dad/grandfather. Friends and family are encouraged to send cards, letters and remembrances to Dana Tate (Dr. Happel’s daughter) at the address listed below.
For those interested in making a monetary donation in Dr. Happel’s memory, the family will be directing donations to our East Valley Foundation. Gifts will be designated towards the endowment that his granddaughter, Alexis, and her husband, Garrett Richards, founded in his name. Physicians interested in making a gift may also choose to give to the Foundation’s Dr. Terry Happel Physician Giving Society.
Dr. Happel’s celebration of life is planned for late October. More information on the celebration will be made available as details are confirmed.
Mailing Address for Cards, Letters, etc.
Dana Tate
9328 E. Citrus Lane N.
Sun Lakes, AZ 85248
Donation