South Lake Tahoe and medical community mourn loss of Dr. Stephen Bannar

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Many in the community were just getting their day underway on Thursday when they heard of the passing of Dr. Stephen Bannar, a respected orthopedist whose talent was known beyond the borders of our country.

"It is with a heavy heart I share with you that Dr. Stephen Bannar passed away this morning," Dr. Clint Purvance, President/CEO of Barton Health announced to employees Thursday. "Dr. Bannar was a beloved and respected member of Barton Health’s medical staff whose orthopedic practice helped thousands of patients in the South Tahoe region over the years. Our thoughts are with Dr. Bannar’s family, loved ones, friends, colleagues, and the many people he cared for in our community."

Many in South Lake Tahoe can thank Dr. Bannar for their replaced knees and hips and are walking today due to his skills.

Barton Health is in the process of setting up support and counseling services for their physicians, staff and team members.

South Lake Tahoe Mayor Brooke Laine made the following statement for the City:

On behalf of myself, city council, and city staff we’d like to offer our deepest condolences to the family of Dr. Stephen Bannar. Dr. Bannar was an integral part of this community. As a doctor, and a community member he was as well regarded as they come. He gave more than 20 years to the people of South Lake Tahoe. He helped people get well and made the community better in the process. It wasn’t just here though; Dr. Bannar took his exceptional skills across the globe working with non-profits, like Doctors Without Borders, to give back to those in need. He made an incredible investment in this community, one that continues with his wife Barbara and his beautiful children. For that, we are eternally grateful. Our thoughts and prayers are with Barbara and their two children during this difficult time.

At this time no memorial service has been set.