Dr. John Phillip Kord died unexpectedly on August 27, 2021, at age 82 in Arlington, Texas, with his three daughters and his loving partner by his side. He was born in Terre Haute, Indiana, on May 9, 1939, to Sheldon M. and Emma J. Kord (ne Branson). An 'Academic Athlete' award graduate of Wiley High School in 1957 as a standout athlete in track and basketball before a knee injury sidelined him. He then turned to medicine, receiving his M.D. from Indiana University School of Medicine in 1964, and he completed his internship and residency at Parkland Hospital in Dallas. From 1964 through 1967, he served as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force.

John loved the world of surgery, whether reconstructive or cosmetic. He was double board-certified in trauma and plastic surgery. In 1978, he established his plastic surgery medical practice in Arlington, Texas, with Dr. David Rasmussen, and spent decades building a reputation for perfection and accountability, earning the love and respect of both patients and peers. In 2004, he retired from surgery, shifting his focus towards hobbies (old & new), travel, and reconnecting with his family.

To his friends and patients, John was dependable, kind, and fun. With his family, he added a great sense of humor, incredible integrity, absolute loyalty -- and yes, a serious streak of stubbornness. He was also a master napper, an ice cream aficionado, an avid sports fan, a perfectionist, a decent golfer (on a good day), a great dancer, and above all else, a true gentleman.

John found joy in the little things, such as watching a good game of pro baseball or college basketball, eating a great steak (medium), or laughing at silly jokes and funny memories. He always wanted to better connect with the people he loved, even learning sous-vide cooking to delight his new partner. He enjoyed investing his time in oil painting, listening to music, and rooting for his home teams (Indiana University, Texas Rangers, and the Dallas Cowboys). He was a voracious learner, and kept on studying into his 80s, taking any continuing education courses that caught his interest. He loved to laugh, and his infectious smile made you feel like everything was right with the world at that moment. John left this world unexpectedly, but he left it a happy and fulfilled man, surrounded by those he loved dearly, and who loved him in return. Truly, a life well-lived, and a man well-loved.

Dr. Kord is survived by his three daughters, Jennifer Kord, Aimee Kord, and Stephanie Kord Miller (and husband Scott); five grandchildren, Kord Edwards, Zoe Edwards, Mace Myers, Aubrey Miller, and Brady Miller; five step-children; the newest love in his life, partner Stephanie Rowen; and Toot, the cat.

He is predeceased by his wife, Carol E. Kord (ne Kassabaum); his parents, Sheldon and Emma Kord; and his sister, Shirley Christiansen (ne Kord).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Operation Kindness or the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.