Note: The following was written by the staff of Battle Mountain General Hospital about a physician, Dr. Peters.
“The practice of medicine is an art, not a trade; a calling, not a business; a calling in which your heart will be exercised equally with your head.” —Osler, MD
Dr. Peters ultimately lives his professional life with the same work ethic that was exemplified for him at a young age by witnessing the “Greatest Generation”. A generation where work was not an option, everyone worked to survive. The common theme for those among this era seems to be self-sacrifice. Dr. Peters has managed to take that theme and translate it to define his own professional life in this vastly different time. Perhaps this is what propelled him to pursue a medical career path very few have trodden. Whatever the reason, we thank him for his unrelenting drive and spirit embodied with a love of this community and the people around him. The time to rest, reflect, and pay tribute is here.
It was nearly thirty years ago when Dr. John Peters internal compass was pointing him toward rural Nevada, armed with the tools necessary to be successful as a rural physician. So began a journey over several decades of an immensely rewarding and exciting life; a home where the people of this small town would become so entwined into Peters living fabric that he would never move again. The Battle Mountain Clinic was his new professional home.
Early on, his days were a tapestry of clinic and long term care time, all-hours emergency care, and I imagine there were even some house calls. There was never a lot of down time but he is not one to let barriers slow down progress and, in turn, his patients never questioned his dedication nor his commitment to patient care. Some might say it was the golden time and that he defined family practice—formerly known as general practice. It is apparent that this man has left an emotional tattoo on our town. It is an invisible tattoo worn proudly by all.
The relationship he has developed with his patients is so deep and special that to this day many expressly request him for their visit. From cradle to grave, he did it all. Until his retirement, Dr. Peters provided thousands of patients with expert care, extended the lives of untold numbers of individuals, and always provided that care with heartfelt compassion and sensitivity. Most importantly he is a genuine person, worthy of your trust.
Dr. Peters is a strong personality who demands excellence, attention to detail, hard work, and honesty. He has a zest for life and for people. This humanism, he applied to his approach to medicine, but also to every aspect of his life. To him, a patient is first and foremost a person. He also has a special talent for connecting with other physicians and has been a mentor to dozens of providers that braced our doors over the years. In them, Dr. Peters did his best to stimulate passion and an inquisitive mind about their profession.
I know I have not done justice to Dr. Peters with this very brief description of what he means to this community. Suffice it to say that the clinic was fortunate to have selected Dr. Peters. He has the true interest of Battle Mountain at heart and led the BM Clinic through its formative years to become an outstanding Rural Health Clinic. A definitive building was not required. Nonetheless, the John Peters Health Center stands as wonderful physical testimonial to his legacy.
The time has come for us to return the favor. Dr. Peters, you have earned the respect of your peers and the admiration of your patients. The countless relationships with family, peers, patients, and community members built over six decades of medical practice have immeasurably enriched the lives of many and will continue to nurture our memories long after this day turns into the next. Here’s wishing you all life’s best as you begin your retirement!
Dr Seuss said it best: “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened!”
And so, with smiles and joyous memories we will be honoring Dr. Peters by celebrating his retirement with him and we ask you all to join us! July, 27 at the Elquist Park 10am-1pm.
Travel remains one of Dr. Peters' great ambitions and he is routinely plotting his next destination.
We have chosen a special way to say thank you and congratulate Dr. Peters on his retirement by donating to his next journey. In all sincerity, your presence as we celebrate this next chapter is the greatest gift of all. But if are inclined, please consider a contribution in lieu of traditional gifts.
Please call 775-635-2550 extension: 1111 or 1114 for more details.
