Stories of Change

Wagner J. Schorr, MD, passed away peacefully at his home in March 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. Over the course of his 89 years, he led a life marked by service, scholarship, deep humanity and inspired philanthropy. 

Rich in Purpose 

Raised on a ranch in Arizona, Wag’s early years were steeped in adventure. His love of the outdoors, hard work and lifelong curiosity were forged among cattle, his brothers and the desert sky. He earned his bachelor of science degree from the University of Arizona and then served in the U.S. Army. At that time, he met Annalee – the woman who would become his wife of 64 years, creative partner and co-visionary in nearly every aspect of his life. 

They married while he attended the University of Colorado School of Medicine (CUSOM), graduating in 1963. Wag went on to complete his residency and nephrology fellowship at CUSOM, and then in 1967, he helped launch one of Europe’s first kidney transplant programs at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle upon Tyne. His career would span continents and decades and always center on improving lives, whether through care, systems change, education or research. 

Steward of Medicine and Community 

Wag’s impact on nephrology was both clinical and entrepreneurial. He was chief of medicine at Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Hospital, where he also co-directed the dialysis unit, and founded Renal Ventures to provide dialysis care to the community. He also founded the Colorado Organ Recovery System (now known as Donor Alliance), bringing his passion for organ donation to life in lasting ways. He later served as medical director of Renaissance Healthcare, where he always kept patient care and innovation at the heart of his work. 

His contributions to healthcare extended beyond hospitals. He sat on the Board of Directors for the Colorado Health Foundation, Colorado Public Radio, the Art Students League of Denver, Third Way, the University of Colorado Foundation and the Gates Institute. Wag’s vision was wide-ranging, and his service consistent. 

Wagner J. Schorr, MD, with his wife, Annalee, at the 2020 Benefactor Recognition Dinner.

Deep and Enduring Legacy at CU

Wag’s connection to CUSOM ran deep. For over 20 years, he served on the Admissions Committee, dedicating more than 120 hours each interview season to evaluating and mentoring the next generation of physicians. As Dean Emeritus Dick Krugman, MD, shared, Wag quickly became a cornerstone of the admissions process – trusted, admired and indispensable. 

His service didn’t stop at admissions. Wag served as president of the CUSOM Alumni Association and led a revival of alumni engagement both locally and nationally. He also helped his class of 1963 become more closely connected with the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, leading efforts that inspired greater involvement and philanthropic support. 

He was honored with the Distinguished Service Award in 2018 and the Florence Rena Sabin Award, CU’s highest recognition for contributions to the campus and the health of Colorado's citizens. Assistant Dean of Admissions Nichole Zehnder, MD, one of Wag’s Sabin Award nominators, captured it well: “His work had, and continues to have, meaningful and lasting impact… I can think of no one more worthy.” 

Dennis and Betty Roop pose with Wag and Annalee Schorr at the 2020 Benefactor Recognition Dinner.

Mentor, Advocate and Listener

Wag’s mentorship was far-reaching. He gave talks each year to the Gates Summer Internship Program and to high school students in the Cherry Creek School District. Many of those he mentored went on to pursue careers in medicine and science, crediting Wag’s guidance for shaping their journeys. 

Former intern Vrushali Patel once wrote, “His strength, kindness and spirit left a mark on everyone he touched – one that will never fade.”  

Another mentee, Jeevan Mann, remembered how Wag helped him find purpose in researching Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), the condition he lives with. They became close, often discussing Jeevan’s career path and medical goals. “Wag taught me to say yes,” Jeevan said. “And that has made all the difference.” 

Even into his later years, Wag remained highly engaged and responsive: reading, writing, asking thoughtful questions and continuing to serve his students and community. Many remarked that you would immediately know when he walked into a room – his laugh, energy and warmth were unmistakable. 

Wag receiving the Charlie's Angel Award from Diane Gates Wallach on behalf of the Gates Center in 2019.

Vision for the Future: EDS and the Gates Center

Perhaps one of Wag’s most innovative achievements was sparked by something very personal: his granddaughter Calla’s diagnosis with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Refusing to accept the fractured state of care for patients like Calla, Wag approached the Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine in 2016 with a bold idea. What began as a conversation with Gates director Dr. Dennis Roop grew into something transformative. By 2019, thanks to philanthropic support from Wag and Annalee, as well as the Sprout Foundation and others, the EDS Center of Excellence was born. 

Today, the EDS Center of Excellence – housed at the Gates Institute and Children’s Hospital Colorado – brings scientists and physicians together to advance discoveries and provide care that once felt out of reach. It was Wag’s vision and persistence that turned the idea into reality. 

“CU is poised for another breakthrough in medicine,” Wag said. “I believe that EDS patients will soon have access to effective treatments, and possibly even a cure. If we are precise with our research and resources, we can be at the forefront of this area in the medical world. That’s our responsibility.” 

A Life Lived Fully and Shared Generously 

Beyond his work, Wag embraced life with zest. He and Annalee traveled the world, from trekking in Nepal to summiting Kilimanjaro and floating the Amazon, and he was an avid golfer and skier who tackled moguls into his 80s. Wag was also a proud supporter of Annalee’s art, often beaming while sharing stories from her studio. 

In his final days, he continued to speak with loved ones and colleagues. As one friend shared, “Each of our calls started with him cheerily saying, ‘Isn’t it nice to hear my voice?’ – and it was.” 

His sense of humor, his sharp mind and his generous spirit never wavered. His last moments were a reflection of how he lived: present, warm and in control of his own story. 

The imprint Wag leaves behind – on people, programs, institutions and hearts – is profound. He leaves us better than he found us, and the future he envisioned continues to unfold.