Legacy of Care

It is with immense sadness that the family of Dr. Gregory L. DeSanto announces his untimely passing from a sudden heart attack on February 9, 2025, at the age of 66. Greg was a dedicated physician, devoted family man, and loyal friend. He was born in Minneapolis, MN, grew up in Rochester, MN, and was inspired by his father, Dr. Lawrence DeSanto, to spend his life caring for others through the practice of medicine. He completed his undergraduate studies at the College of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN, and earned his medical degree from the University of Minnesota. After a distinguished residency at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Greg pursued his passion for bringing new life into the world through the Obstetrics and Gynecology practice he co-founded and led with skill and profound compassion for 35 years, Camelback Women’s Health.

Greg truly loved his work and had no intention of slowing down, giving his all to his practice and each of his patients. It was his greatest privilege to guide patients through one of life’s most meaningful moments, childbirth, with his expertise, empathy, and genuine care. He was there for them no matter the time of day or what else he was doing without complaint. Greg also shared his medical expertise with his fellow healthcare professionals, mentoring and advising them in their own medical careers. His giving spirit motivated him to join a medical mission to provide critically needed care to women in the refugee camps of Jordan, a significant highlight of his career.

Beyond the steady demand of his practice, Greg was incredibly dedicated to spending time with his family and friends. He was an amazing father to his three children, whom he nurtured into strong, accomplished, and compassionate young adults. He was always there for them, attending every meaningful event, including graduations, theatre plays, little league games, and volleyball tournaments, and never missing a family dinner. They were the center of his universe and the greatest joy in his life.

Although there was so much more that Greg deserved to do and see, he lived a prolific and purposeful life. He was never content staying still and was always pursuing the next project and exciting plan for the future. He loved concerts, sporting events, and sharing special moments with his family with whom he went on many adventures – around the country and abroad. He set aside the pressures of his practice to enjoy many activities: playing hockey, golf, pickleball, hiking, and throwing the frisbee with his beloved dog, Finley. He spent many weekends relaxing and recharging at his cabin, where he and his family created over twenty years of cherished memories.

He was a genuine soul, reserved but deeply present. He never spoke just to be heard. When he chose to express himself, his words carried meaning, sincerity, and heart. Greg was a man with uncompromising principles and a strong sense of responsibility to his community. His indelible spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his legacy of care and kindness will live on through his children, the countless lives he touched, and the families he helped grow. Greg leaves his children, Hannah and her fiancé Austin, Ryan, and Julienne, as well as his friend and the mother of their children, Kathy, his mother Marilyn DeSanto, his three sisters, Lisa, Sara, and Jill, brothers-in-law Tim and James, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father Dr. Lawrence DeSanto.