Reprinted with permission from Bonney Watson
Dr. Henry Anton Kuharic, a pioneering physician, humanitarian, and lifelong advocate for public health and environmental stewardship, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, at the age of 98. Born April 5, 1928, in Newcastle, Washington, he was the son of Anton and Annie Kuharic, of Croatian and Slovenian heritage.
Early life
Raised on a self-sufficient 40-acre farm on Cougar Mountain, with his two sisters Bertha (deceased) and Mary Ann (95 years), Henry’s early life instilled in him a deep work ethic, independence, and curiosity. He attended a one-room schoolhouse and later graduated from Issaquah High School, where he served as president of the science club. His passion for learning was sparked by long hours reading — often hidden away in the hay loft — and he was thrilled when he received his first Seattle Public Library card.
Encouraged by a high school teacher, he became the first student from Issaquah to attend an Ivy League institution, earning a full scholarship to Harvard University, from which he graduated in 1950. He later returned to Washington to attend the inaugural class of the University of Washington School of Medicine, graduating in 1959. He began his residency in internal medicine and infectious disease in 1960, embarking on a medical career that would span more than six decades.
Medical career and professional activities
Dr. Kuharic became widely known as “the country doctor in the city,” a reflection of his compassionate, hands-on approach to care. He made countless house calls — day and night — prioritizing patient dignity and access over convenience or cost. His work ranged from treating everyday illnesses to caring for visiting public figures, including Robert Kennedy during his presidential campaign in Seattle in March 1968, and serving as personal physician to American-Greek operatic soprano Maria Callas during her final Seattle tour.
A pioneer in infectious disease, Dr. Kuharic played a crucial role in eradicating tuberculosis on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula and helped establish TB programs in Bolivia through the Peace Corps. His global medical service included voyages with US Army Project HOPE to Indonesia and Colombia. In the 1980s, he was among the early physicians treating patients with HIV/AIDS, advocating for compassionate, science-based care during a time of widespread stigma. His work also contributed to evolving immunological approaches to cancer treatment.
Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Kuharic was deeply engaged in public health and environmental advocacy. He supported anti-smoking initiatives, clean air efforts, water fluoridation, and the elimination of toxic environmental waste. He served as a representative of the King County Medical Society on the Century 2000 planning commission. A dedicated supporter of Vegetarians of Washington, he helped introduce the benefits of plant-based nutrition into medical education at the University of Washington. He also supported foster children in Guatemala, reflecting his lifelong commitment to global humanitarian causes.
In addition to his many professional accomplishments, during the 1970s, Dr. Kuharic actively participated in the Western Washington Harvard Alumni and University of Washington Medical Alumni, supporting academic and professional communities. He established a legacy in medical education through the Henry A. Kuharic, M.D. Endowed Scholarship for Academic Merit at the University of Washington School of Medicine. This prestigious award supports medical students who demonstrate outstanding academic excellence and reflects his deep commitment to mentoring future generations of physicians.
Dr. Kuharic received numerous honors, including the 1997 Humanitarian Award from the University of Washington Medical Alumni Association and recognition as a 2023 Pillars of Pride honoree.
Personal life and legacy
Outside of medicine, he embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He was an avid reader, traveler, pilot, and lover of classical music, literature, and the arts. He found inspiration in the quiet beauty of mornings and evenings, and joy in long-distance running, skiing, and hiking. His garden, like his life, was vibrant, nurturing, and full of care.
In a recent tribute shared by family and friends, Dr. Kuharic was remembered not only for his immense contributions to medicine and public health, but also for his “voracious love of reading, boundless curiosity, intellectual spirit, and passion for world travel, the arts, and environmental causes.” He built lifelong friendships across continents and disciplines, leaving a legacy defined by kindness, wit, and an adventurous spirit.
Dr. Kuharic is remembered as a devoted friend, brother, and uncle. His life’s work touched countless individuals locally and globally, and his influence will endure in the many communities he served. His legacy is one of compassion, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to others. He is survived by his sister, Mary Ann Pray; nephews Ron and Jerry Jordan, and Jim Pray; and nieces Shirley Cade, Sharon Miller, and Kristina Hilden.
A celebration of life for Dr. Henry Anton Kuharic will be held May 17, 2026, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at MOHAI in Seattle.
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