Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing gas lift valves when the valve is stuck in a side pocket mandrel positioned in an oil and gas well. The method includes the running of an elongated tool body into the well on a slick line, wireline or the like. The tool body is extended into the side pocket mandrel sufficiently so that the distal end of the tool body is located at an elevational position below the gas lift valve to be removed. A valve removal arm extend laterally from the tool body and into the lower end portion of the side pocket portion of the side pocket mandrel, at a position directly below the gas lift valve. The tool body is lifted until the valve removal arm engages the bottom of the gas lift valve. Continued application of tension to the wireline lifts the tool body and the valve removal arm that is engaged with the bottom of the as lift valve, thus dislodging the stuck gas lift valve from the side pocket portion of the side pocket mandrel.