George Bernard Primbs

George Bernard Primbs, M.D. (1929-2024) passed away on January 7, 2024, in Santa Barbara.

Born in Pocatello, Idaho to George and Mae Primbs, Dr. Primbs had a passion for high-end cars and wine. He enjoyed fly fishing, hunting and traveling. He graduated from UCSB in 1951 and was one of the members of the first graduating class of UCLA medical school in 1955. He served as a staff ophthalmologist and captain in the USAF and later served three years in Libya as a flight surgeon. He also served in the Navy as a Machinist’s Mate Fireman. As a lover of wine, in 1990, he joined a local group of retired friends that made their own wine. As the fifth member, he coined the label ‘Los Cincos Locos.’ He was the first director of the Lions Eye Laboratory at St Francis Hospital and co-founder of the non profit SEE International. He was also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons since 1972. He faithfully served the local community of Santa Barbara for many years as a prominent ophthalmologist and retina specialist.

He is predeceased by his wife Bessie J. Primbs and son Charles “Charlie” Primbs. He is survived by his son George Primbs III and daughter Catherine Rose Primbs. Viewing on Tuesday, 1/23 from 6-7pm at the Welch-Ryce-Haider downtown Chapel. Funeral Mass to be held at San Roque Church on Wednesday, 1/24 at 10:30am. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery. Reception immediately following at the University Club from 1:00 – 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, kindly send donations to Vision Care Program SEE International in his honor.