The loss of a friend, a leader, a colleague, an advocate
“It’s hard to forget someone who gave you so much to remember” author unknown
This week the long term care industry lost a leader and a true friend and advocate for long term care in Texas and elsewhere. Douglas “Doug” Glenn Pendergras Sr. passed away this past Monday in Austin, Texas at the age of 84.
Mr. Pendergrass was an active part of the nursing home business for 55 years. Described as a “pioneer in the nursing home business”, he served as President of American Health Care Association and Chairman of the Texas Health Care Association. Mr. Pendergras was a key voice on the THCA Board, when the former THCA Office building at 4214 Medical Parkway was purchased. He truly loved taking care of the aged and disabled. As a leader in the long term care sector, when he disagreed with your position, he left no doubt where he stood. At the same time however, when he was with you on an issue, he was all in.
Mr. Pendergras touched a lot of people across the country in efforts to support and build up the nursing home industry. Since Monday, I have received calls and emails from members of the industry in other states because they had heard about his passing.
This past AHCA Convention in Las Vegas, I had the opportunity, as I do every year, to spend time visiting with Mr. Pendergras and his wonderful wife Sally. As usual, he kept me on my toes, asked about how things were going, and offered to help if needed. I’m glad I had those opportunities and the many others, and I hope you all have the opportunity to remember Mr. Pendergras (Doug) as well.
Onward and Upward
