July 9, 1938 – May 25, 2022
Longtime Loma Linda University School of Medicine (LLUSM) faculty member John W. Mace ’64 passed away peacefully on May 25, 2022, surrounded by family.
Dr. Mace was born at home in Buena Vista, Virginia, the only son in a family of seven sisters. He earned a BA degree with honors from Columbia Union College in 1960 and received his medical degree from LLUSM in 1964. In 1962, he met and married his wife of 60 years, Janice Marie Koerber, and shortly thereafter joined the U.S. Navy. He subsequently completed an internship (1964–65) and a residency (1966–68) in pediatrics at the Naval Hospital in San Diego, followed by a fellowship (1970–72) in endocrinology and metabolism at the University of Colorado Medical Center. Dr. Mace left the Navy in 1970 with the rank of lieutenant commander. He was certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and the American Board of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism.
Dr. Mace returned to serve at LLUSM on July 1, 1972, the beginning of a significant term of service to the institution. He served as chair of the department of pediatrics (1975–2003), as an administrator, and as a professor of pediatrics.
A humble and gentle leader, he was actively involved with the establishment of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and played a major role in initiating the Children’s Hospital Foundation. He practiced pediatric endocrinology for 50 years, only retiring at 83 due to failing health. A dedicated advocate for children, he participated in several international groups to improve the quality of life for children in diverse regions. He was also active on many boards and committees and served as president of the Foundation of Medical Care and the Inland Empire Chapter of the American Diabetes Association.
Dr. Mace was recognized for excellence throughout his career, earning several awards, including: Outstanding Teacher (1973), Alumni Association Alumnus of the Year (1994), the San Bernardino County Medical Society’s William L. Cover, MD, Award for Outstanding Contribution to Medicine (2003), University Alumnus of the Year (2007), and LLUSM Distinguished Service Award (2014).
He will be greatly missed by his LLUSM family. He is survived by his wife, Janice; children, Karin, John, and James; and 11 grandchildren. He was a faithful Christian and wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.