In Memoriam

• Dr. Bohdan Kuzyk
• Dr. Leonardo Abelardo
• Dr. Maret Truuvert
• Dr. Steven Michael Baylin
• Dr. Jens Ove Andreasen
• Dr. Guy Benoit   
• Dr. Brian Edgar Denyar  
• Dr. Milton Israel Houpt
• Dr. Gerald (Gerry) Zanvil Wright
• Dr. Gordon Nikiforik
  
• Dr. Donald Cheung

C'est avec une grande tristesse que l'ACDP/CAPD apprend le décès du Dr Bohdan Kuzyk, membre honoraire

Cher(ère)s membres de l’ACDP/CAPD,

Je suis attristée de vous informer du décès récent du Dr Bohdan Kuzyk, un membre très respecté de notre famille de dentistes pédiatriques et membre honoraire de l'ACDP.

Nous prévoyons rendre hommage aux contributions inestimables du Dr Kuzyk à la communauté canadienne de la dentisterie pédiatrique dans le prochain numéro de l’infolettre The Mirror. Veuillez vous joindre à moi pour envoyer nos plus sincères condoléances à la famille du Dr Kuzyk.

La présidente de l’ACDP/CAPD,

Dre Jennifer MacLellan

C’est avec une grande tristesse et beaucoup d’amour que nous annonçons que le Dr Bohdan Kuzyk est décédé, avec sa famille à son chevet, le dimanche 13 mars 2022 à l’âge de 89 ans.

Bohdan laisse dans le deuil son épouse Sylvia, ses enfants Barbara (Paul), Christine (Martin), Carol et Tracy (Jeremy), ses petits-enfants Emma, Laura, Matthew et Michael, sa sœur Sylvia (Ed), ainsi ses cousins, de nombreux neveux, nièces et membres de sa famille élargie. Bohdan a été précédé dans la mort par ses parents, Mary et Stephan, sa première femme Sophie, son fils David et sa petite-fille Elizabeth. La famille souhaite exprimer sa gratitude aux membres du personnel de l’Edmonton General Continuing Care Centre pour leur grande compassion et leurs soins exceptionnels.

Une célébration liturgique a eu lieu le vendredi 18 mars à 10 h à la cathédrale catholique ukrainienne St- Josaphat, suivie de l’inhumation au cimetière St-Michael, à Edmonton. 

Au lieu d’envoyer des fleurs, vous êtes invités à faire un don à l’Association du parkinson de l’Alberta, #120, 6835, Railway Street SE, Calgary (Alberta) T2H 2V6, à un organisme de soutien humanitaire à l’Ukraine ou à l’organisme de charité de votre choix.

Vous pouvez transmettre vos photos, souvenirs et condoléances par le biais du site www.parkmemorial.com.

C'est avec une grande tristesse que la CAPD/ACDP apprend le décès du Dr Leonardo Abelardo

Chers membres CAPD/ACDP,

Je suis attristée de vous informer du décès récent du Dr Leonardo Abelardo, un membre très respecté de notre famille de dentistes pédiatriques.

Nous prévoyons rendre hommage aux contributions inestimables du Dr Abelardo à la communauté canadienne de la dentisterie pédiatrique dans le prochain numéro du Mirror. Veuillez vous joindre à moi pour envoyer nos plus sincères condoléances à la famille, aux amis et aux collègues du Dr Abelardo.

Dre Jennifer MacLellan

Présidente, CAPD/ACDP

Le Dr Leonardo M. Abelardo, connu de sa famille et de ses amis sous le nom de Ding, est décédé paisiblement à l'âge de 86 ans le 3 février 2022. Il laisse dans le deuil son épouse depuis 58 ans Leonie, son fils John, sa fille Lysanne (Ray Daoud), ses sœurs Herminia et Florencia et ses petits-enfants bien-aimés Aleah, Leo, Anabelle et Oliver, ainsi que plusieurs nièces et neveux.

Né en 1936 à Manille, aux Philippines, de Leon et Aurora, le Dr Abelardo est diplômé de l'Université centrale de Manille avec un diplôme en dentisterie. Il a ensuite rencontré et épousé sa femme Leonie et ils ont déménagé aux États-Unis afin qu'il puisse poursuivre ses études post-graduées en dentisterie pédiatrique à l'Université de Rochester. En 1967, il déménage à Montréal pour enseigner la dentisterie pédiatrique à l'Université de Montréal et devient plus tard directeur de la médecine dentaire à L'hôpital Sainte-Justine. La passion du Dr Abelardo a été l'enseignement et pendant plus de 50 ans, il s'est consacré à la formation et au mentorat de plusieurs générations de dentistes pédiatriques de Montréal. Il a été tellement dévoué à sa profession qu'il a continué à enseigner et à pratiquer la dentisterie jusqu'à ses derniers jours.

Sa vie a été avant tout consacrée à sa bien-aimée Léonie et à ses enfants. Léonie et Leonardo ont parcouru le monde ensemble en profitant de croisières dans différents pays et de voyages dans le Vermont. Il a encouragé l'amour du tennis chez son fils John et ils ont passé des heures à jouer ensemble, ce qui a conduit John à devenir un instructeur professionnel de tennis. Sa fille Lysanne a également suivi ses traces en devenant une enseignante accomplie au primaire qui, comme son père, a une passion pour le mentorat. Plus tard dans sa vie, son plus grand plaisir a été de devenir un « Lolo » pour ses quatre petits-enfants et il passait d'innombrables heures avec eux à raconter des histoires, à rire et à jouer.

Leonardo était réputé pour son sourire contagieux, son rire facile et sa passion pour toutes sortes de nourriture. Il aimait chanter, danser avec sa femme, jouer au tennis avec des amis et passer du temps dans son jardin. Sa plus grande joie était d'aider les personnes dans le besoin en offrant ses conseils, son temps ou toute autre chose nécessaire à sa famille, ses amis ou ses collègues.

Leonardo a eu une vie bien remplie, a travaillé dur et est digne maintenant d’un repos bien mérité. Il était vraiment unique en son genre et il nous manquera.

Dear CAPD/ACDP members,

I am saddened to inform you of the recent passing of Dr. Maret Truuvert, a highly respected and Honourary member of our Paediatric Dentistry family.

We plan to honour Maret's invaluable contributions to our Academy and the Canadian paediatric dentistry community in the next issue of the Mirror. Please join me in sending our heartfelt condolences to Maret's family.

Dr. Jennifer MacLellan

President, CAPD/ACDP

Published in Toronto Star on Sep. 7, 2021.

TRUUVERT, MARET (nee SAAR) May 19, 1929 – September 4, 2021

After a long, full life, Maret Truuvert passed away peacefully on September 4, 2021, at the age of 92. She was at home, with family by her side. She will be missed by many, especially by her brother, Toomas (Maris); her children, Andres (Fiamma), Liis (Arnold), and Kaarel (Ruth); her grandchildren, Trina (Greg), Kristin (Scott), Taavo, Markus, Sara, Annie, Alexander, and Michael; and her great-grandchildren, Ian, Maeve, Hewitt, Charlie, and Alexandra. She is predeceased by her husband, Antoni "Ants" Truuvert, her daughter Piret, son-in-law Ian, and her companion and fellow traveler for many years, Edgar Marten.

Maret was born in Estonia and fled with her family to Sweden ahead of the Soviet invasion during World War II. Although only fifteen years old and with little to her name, she adapted quickly and cheerfully, learning Swedish and English, and excelled in high school and at Stockholm University where she began her studies in dentistry. She met and married Antoni and gave birth to Piret. The young family then took another bold step and immigrated to Canada to build a new life from almost nothing.

A pioneer in the field of dentistry, Maret was the first woman to study postgraduate Paediatric Dentistry at the University of Toronto and was among the first Estonian-speaking dentists to practise in Toronto. Maret established a family dental practice first in her own home and then in Bloor West Village and lectured as an Assistant Professor of Preventative Dentistry at the University of Toronto.

She received from the University in 1999 an Alumni Award in Dentistry. She was also a member of the esteemed International College of Dentists and an Honourary Member of the Canadian Association of Paediatric Dentistry. Maret was an integral member of the Estonian community, in Estonia and in Canada. She improved dentistry standards in newly freed Estonia and became a partner and teacher at a dental clinic in Pärnu. In collaboration with the Estonian Medical Sciences Association, she hosted doctors, dentists, and dental technicians in her home. She also facilitated English studies for visiting officers from the Estonian military, acted as Chairperson of the Board of St. Peter's Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Toronto, and volunteered with the Women's Auxiliary. In addition to the honours she received from the Estonian military for her work with language students, Maret received The Red Cross Medal of Estonia for her humanitarian work.

But those who were lucky enough to have known Maret will likely remember her for her bright spirit, her fierce intelligence, and her enduring sense of humour. She was often characterized as "the glue that holds the family together" and "Grand Central Station", connecting everybody. For decades, she kept in touch with family, friends, and colleagues, writing letters and emails. She put others before herself with kindness and gusto. Whether she was tending to a patient in her dental chair, touring Estonian officers around Toronto, or baking one of her legendary birthday cakes to take across town to the lucky recipient, Maret took care of everyone. Throughout her life, she was a model of strength and of love.

A private service was held with immediate family. A remembrance will occur at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Estonian Foundation of Canada, SickKids, St. Peter's Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Toronto, or a charity of your choice.

To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.

C’est avec une profonde tristesse que l’ACDP/CAPD souligne le décès du

Dr Steven Baylin

Cher(ère)s membres de l’ACDP/CAPD,

Je suis attristée de vous informer du récent décès du Dr Steve Baylin, membre honoraire très respecté de notre famille de la dentisterie pédiatrique. Nous soulignerons les précieuses contributions que Steve a faites à notre Académie et à la communauté de la dentisterie pédiatrique dans le prochain numéro de l’infolettre The Mirror. Je vous prie de vous joindre à moi pour transmettre nos plus sincères condoléances à la famille de Steve.

La présidente de l’ACDP/CAPD,

Dre Jennifer MacLellan

Cher(ère) ami(e)s, membres de la famille, collègues et autres,

C’est avec une grande tristesse et le cœur lourd que je vous communique la nouvelle du décès, le 7 janvier 2021, de notre très cher ami et mentor et l’un des hommes les plus généreux que la terre ait porté, le Dr Steve Baylin.

Il est difficile d’être triste pour Steve, car il a eu une vie bien remplie de merveilleux moments et d’aventures incroyables, en plus d’être comme un grand-père pour beaucoup de dentistes pédiatriques. Steve était l’un des hommes les plus attentionnés, généreux, sincères que j’aie connus. C’est lui qui est la principale raison pour laquelle je fais ce que je fais aujourd’hui, et j’aimerais penser que je le fais bien grâce à son influence. Steve a établi la norme. Il aimait tellement de gens, et tellement de gens l’aimaient. Il nous a quittés dans un lieu très paisible avec sa fille Melissa et sa charmante épouse Debbie à ses côtés, tous les trois se tenant par la main.

Notre cher Steve sera bien accueilli là-haut.

Prenez bien soin de vos êtres chers.

Dr Brad Krusky

Cette notice nécrologique est parue dans le Calgary Herald le 10 janvier 2021.

https://calgaryherald.remembering.ca/obituary/steven-baylin-1081395285

Le Dr Steve Baylin est décédé le 7 janvier 2021, au centre de soins palliatifs Chinook à Calgary, en Alberta, au terme d’un combat de deux ans contre un lymphome non hodgkinien. Il a affronté sa maladie comme il a vécu sa vie – avec force morale et humour, conquérant le cœur de ses médecins et du personnel soignant.

Steve était le fils d’Aaron et de Freda (Steinberg) Baylin, les deux décédés avant lui. Il laisse dans le deuil sa sœur Sandy (Jerry Golick), son épouse Debbie (Small), sa fille Melissa (Bruno Rizzuto), six neveux et nièces, et de nombreux amis qu’il chérissait. Pour Steve, tout le monde faisait partie de sa famille.

Comme Steve est né et a grandi à Montréal, il était un ardent partisan des Canadiens. Skieur hors pair, Steve a travaillé comme patrouilleur et moniteur au sein de l’école de ski qu’il avait fondée avec des amis. Parmi ses plus beaux souvenirs, il y avait ses étés passés au chalet familial dans les Laurentides, où il faisait des feux de camp avec sa sœur Sandy et flirtait avec de jolies filles.

Pendant ses études de premier cycle à l’Université Concordia, Steve prenait chaque été le train jusqu’à Banff où il travaillait comme serveur auprès des dignitaires logés à l’hôtel Banff Springs et faisait du ski hors piste, ce qui fut le début de son histoire d’amour avec les Rocheuses.

Titulaire d’un diplôme de médecine dentaire générale de l’Université McGill, Steve a ensuite obtenu sa spécialisation en pédodontie et une maîtrise en sciences de l’Université de Boston. À trois semaines du début de sa carrière, il a eu un blind date avec Debbie, et dix jours plus tard il faisait carrément le saut et la demandait en mariage.

En 1978, Steve et Debbie ont emballé leurs maigres possessions et sont partis vers Calgary où Steve a travaillé comme associé au cabinet du Dr Len Smith. Il a ensuite ouvert son propre cabinet, faisant sourire des milliers de patients au cours de sa carrière de 30 ans. Membre à vie de la société dentaire Alpha Omega, Steve a cofondé une synagogue et travaillé pendant de nombreuses années à l’Hôpital pour enfants de l’Alberta.

Quand Melissa Rose est née en 1983, il est devenu le papa le plus heureux de la planète. Melissa est demeurée sa plus grande joie et sa compagne de sport préférée. Les deux étaient de féroces compétiteurs, et ça dérangeait un peu Steve que Melissa le batte au billard.

Steve était toujours courtois, généreux, enthousiaste, enjoué et aimable. Il aimait la vie, même à la retraite qui lui a permis de renouer avec les joies du golf, du ski, de la randonnée pédestre, du jardinage et, surtout, de la photographie. Steve avait l’œil pour saisir la beauté de la nature, et sa mémoire restera vivante à travers ses photos.

Steve manquera à toutes les personnes qui ont connu l’homme aux brillants yeux bleus et au sourire étincelant qui ont réchauffé nos cœurs. Que sa mémoire soit source de réconfort !

La famille aimerait souligner les soins extraordinaires prodigués par la Dre Lesley Street, la Dre Monica Modi, le Dr Dino Smiljic, la Dre Tina Hoang, Rena Richards et le personnel du centre de soins palliatifs Chinook.

Les dons en mémoire de Steve peuvent être versés à l’un de fonds suivants :

For Love of Steve Baylin Fund

a/s de la Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary

Dr. Steve Baylin Legacy FUNd

a/s de Place2Give https://place2give.com/donations/steve-baylin-fund/

Notice publiée le 10 janvier 2021

C’est avec une profonde tristesse que l’ACDP/CAPD a appris le décès du

Dr Jens Ove Andreasen.

Considéré comme le père de la traumatologie dentaire, le Dr Andreasen était membre honoraire de l’ACDP/CAPD. 

Lors de notre congrès annuel 2017 tenu à Winnipeg, au Manitoba, l’ACDP/CAPD a eu le privilège d’accueillir l’éminent Dr Andreasen à titre de conférencier d’honneur. Il y a présenté deux séances intitulées « New Studies on the long-term fate of traumatized primary teeth and consequences for permanent successors » et « New knowledge and pulp healing events in traumatized permanent teeth suffering luxation injuries ». 

Le Dr Andreasen était un pédagogue, un chercheur et un clinicien très respecté et reconnu mondialement, qui s’est voué tant professionnellement que personnellement à l’amélioration de la qualité de vie des enfants à l’échelle internationale. Afin de souligner ses importantes contributions à notre profession, le Dr Andreasen a été nommé membre honoraire de l’ACDP/CAPD par le président de l’époque, le Dr Paul Andrews, durant la réception de bienvenue du congrès annuel 2017.

Puisse l’héritage que nous a laissé le Dr Andreasen continuer à se perpétuer à travers les soins que nous prodiguons avec compassion à nos patients.

Une notice nécrologique officielle est parue sur le site du Dental Trauma Guide le 27 septembre 2020.

L’ACDP/CAPD tient à offrir ses plus sincères condoléances à la famille du Dr Andreasen.

La présidente de l’ACDP/CAPD,

Dre Jennifer MacLellan

Dr. Guy Benoit

Membre honoraire de l'Académie

2021 - October 17, 2020

By Dr. Victor Legault.

It is with great regret that I inform you of the passing of Dr. Guy Benoit, in Montreal on April 17, 2020. He would have reached 100 years of age on March 19, 2021.

Guy was born and raised in Montreal, where Antonio Benoit, his father, had 7 children and operated a “lumber and mill work” company, on St-Timothée Street, downtown Montreal. Guy studied at Collège Brébeuf where he excelled at hockey and lacrosse before entering dental school at the Université de Montréal, and graduating with a DDS degree in 1947. Family memorabilia reveal that, at that time, the Dental Faculty charged 260$Can. per year for tuition, and the academic results were regularly sent to the student’s father !

With a grant from the Kellogg’s Foundation, Guy proceeded to Northwestern University, where he specialized in Pediatric Dentistry, directed by Drs. Maury Massler and Isaac Schour.

Back to Montreal in 1948, he opened his office on Cherrier Street, and married Dr. Pauline Rivard on July 2, 1949, the only female graduate from U de M in 1948!! They had a family of 4 children, 6 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Guy maintained his pedo practice until 1991, while Pauline shortly headed the City of Montreal Dental Health Programme from 1948 to 1950.

Guy was a quiet and generous man, a meticulous pediatric dentist whose priority was his patient’s oral health, long before his specialty was officially recognized by the Quebec Order of Dentists in 1972.

Along with Drs. Roberta Dundass (U McGill) and Georges Perreault (U de M), he spearheaded the development of Pediatric Dentistry in Quebec.

Dr. Guy Benoit will be remembered as an esteemed colleague, a fierce tennis player, and a fine gourmet who occasionally appreciated a great restaurant, but preferred his wife’s cuisine !

May he rest in Peace.

Remembering Dr. Brian Denyar

Dr. Paul MacDonald recalled that he, Sam Cheung, Michael Sigal and Brian Denyar all graduated from The University of Toronto in 1982 with a Diploma in Pedodontics.

“Following his McGill graduation, Brian operated a general practice in Montreal for 14 years. When offered a chance to pursue studies in paediatric dentistry at University of Toronto under legendary Dr. Norm Levine, Brian moved with his family to Oakville, Ontario. After graduation from UofT, Brian continued to be a part-time clinical instructor while providing specialty care for children and young special needs adults in his Toronto office. Additionally, Brian would go on to help provide pediatric dental care in the Hamilton and Bracebridge communities.

Brian was an accomplished athlete. He played hockey for McGill and countless Oldtimer's teams. His skiing adventures were shared with his "Liz" and three children he adored. Leisure time was often spent either walking a Florida beach or lakeside at the family home in Bracebridge, crossword in hand and one of his Labrador retrievers at his side.”

Dr. Michael Sigal added “I was having major health issues during my time as a resident in Pediatric Dentistry. Brian was always there for me then as the mature member of our class having already been in practice and moving here with his wife and children. He cared about everyone, his patients, co-residents and academic staff. Brian was very supportive and was always ready to sit down and have a chat about something - usually drinking a Pepsi no matter the time of day.

Dr. WaSham Cheung wrote “I was a classmate of Brian in the graduate program at U of T. Brian was always a very pleasant, helpful, and considerate person. What strikes me most was his sense of humour. He could easily lighten up our arduous clinics and seminars with his humourous comments. I know he was a very active fellow; he was an avid skier and hockey player. I remember when Brian and I had a week of rotation together at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario. He kindly offered me a ride to Ottawa from Toronto. We shared many interesting personal stories on our trip. Brian, it's a pleasure to be your colleague. You will be missed. Hope you rest in peace.

Dr. Howard McIsaac added “Brian associated in my office for many years after completing his paedo specialty. He was a very good clinician, friendly with the staff and all of his patients. He always came prepared to work bringing along his two favorite things…diet Pepsi and his beloved Labrador dogs. Today they would be considered as therapy dogs for patients and/or the dentist. Brian enjoyed driving his red DatsunZ and would leave the office on Fridays to join his family in Muskoka…and he loved to drive fast!

After suffering his initial stroke, Brian was no longer able to work. He spent his time puttering in the garden and restoring old furniture. Brian loved working with children and I am sure he would still be working if his health allowed.

I miss the friendship and our long telephone conversations. My sincere sympathy to Liz and his children.

Remembering Dr. Milton Houpt

The December issue of IAPDWorld called Dr. Milton Houpt one of the founders of Modern Pediatric Dentistry and commented that his research in dental conscious sedation for children remains one of those ‘classics’ and is required reading for postgraduate study and ongoing clinical trials.

Dr. Houpt was Professor Emeritus of Pediatric Dentistry at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. As part of his training, he earned the Master of Dental Science (1968), Master of Education (1970), and Doctor of Philosophy (1971) degrees, all from the University of Pittsburgh. In 1968, he attained a Certificate of Specialty in Pediatric Dentistry and in 1982 he became a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

He was internationally respected as a revered academic and researcher

Dr. Houpt was an intellectual giant, author or co-author of some 117 scientific journal papers and the recipient of many honors. Dr. Houpt served as a consultant to the American Dental Association, the USA National Dental Examination Board, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Health Resources and Service Administration. For seven years, he was a member of the Board of Trustees of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Houpt believed in the IAPD’s mission and was a trusted advisor and counsel for the organization. He served on the IAPD Board of Directors as Honorary Editor during the years 2009-2015. In 2017, the IAPD Board of Directors bestowed upon Prof. Houpt Honorary Membership.

Dr. Franklin Pulver, a past professor of Paediatric Dentistry at U of T noted that…

Milton graduated from undergraduate Dentistry at UoT with Dr. Norm Levine. I had graduated under grad at UoT in 1958 and then from Paediatric Dentistry in 1962 from UMich. I bought Dr. Bob Rapp's practice in Toronto when Dr. Rapp returned to UMich to teach.

When I bought Dr. Rapp's practice there was this young guy working as a GP limited to kids. It was Miltie Houpt. He was actually thinking of quitting Dentistry and was accepted into the Engineering program in Ann Arbour. He completed 1 1/2 years of Engineering and then went back to do Paediatric Dentistry and ended up at University of Pittsburgh under Dr. Rapp who had become the Head there. He completed his Paediatric Dentistry and then went on to do a Ph.D.

He was a gentle, Gentleman. He was very smart and always had many irons in the fire. He became Head at University of New Jersey. He was the Editor of the Journal of Paediatric Dentistry and attended the IAPD regularly and often gave lectures. He was thoughtful and he went to a different drummer in his thinking and was ahead of his time.

Dr. Ari Kupietzky, DMD, Msc (Israel) is the Secretary General of the IAPD. He is Visiting professor

Department of Pediatric Dentistry Rutgers School of Dental Medicine Newark, New Jersey, USA and a Faculty member of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, The Hebrew University – Hadassah School of Dental Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel.

I remember the first time meeting Dr. Houpt as a graduate student beginning my residency. I was called into his office and actually was very nervous. He was very to the point, wishing me success but at the same time relayed a message that much effort would be required to complete the pediatric residency program. And he was right!

We were trained by him to be not only good clinicians but also scientists. For the rest of my professional life I continued to both respect and admire the great person he was. He demanded of his students but at the same time gave so much of his time to help us succeed. He was the most honest and straight person I have ever encountered.

Dr. Houpt was respected and admired by the hundreds of dental and graduate students he trained. Many of them continued in his footsteps becoming department chairs, researchers and leaders of pediatric dentistry.

Dr. Houpt was my mentor, colleague, and friend. He was an inspiration throughout my professional career. His expertise on conscious sedation motivated me to focus on this aspect of behavior management in pediatric dentistry. He was always in the background offering support, guidance, and advice twenty years after I graduated. I owe my success to him. I eventually co-authored a textbook on behavior management and became the secretary general of the International Association of Paediatric Dentistry.

And by the way, although he told me around ten years ago to call him Milt, I couldn't do it, it was Dr. Houpt!

Dr. Gerald Wright

Membre honoraire de l'Académie

1935 - October 30, 2019

November 22, 2019

It is with sadness that we share news that Dr. Gerald (Gerry) Zanvil Wright – professor emeritus at Schulich Dentistry and a passionate local and international advocate of dental training in pediatric practice - passed away at home surrounded by the love of his family on October 30, 2019. A tribute to Dr. Wright will appear in the End-of-Year issue of The Mirror.

He was always a Winnipeg north ender, the poor side of town, and throughout his career he helped those who had seen hardship in life.

After graduating from U of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry in 1960, he returned to Winnipeg to practice and was encouraged by Dr. Wilf Feasby to study pediatric dentistry. In 1971, having graduated from pediatric dentistry at Indiana University, he joined Dr. Feasby, now located at Western University, and began an illustrious academic career.

As a DDS, MSD, FRCD (C), Dip. American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, he was an internationally respected clinician, writer and Professor Emeritus at Western University. He was a member of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry and became the Chair of the Division of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry.

His innovations led to the creation of several programs, including being founder and director of Operation Belarus, a project to improve dentistry in Belarus.

With colleagues at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, he also developed the Mustang Dental Conference and at the end of his academic career he was responsible for creating the Qualifying Program (later known as the International Program) for landed immigrants who were trained as dentists outside of Canada. He edited/authored numerous scientific articles and five books, including writing the leading text on behaviour management of children in the dental office; the newly revised edition will be titled Wright’s Behaviour Management in Dentistry for Children in his honour.

As a matter of note, Dr. Wright was the Keynote Speaker at the 2012 Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Annual Conference on the topic of Behaviour Management.

He served on the Board of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, was an Examiner of the Royal College of Dentistry and worked with dentists around the world as Secretary General of the International Association of Pediatric Dentistry (IAPD. Among his initiatives was creating Dentists for All Children, which helped academics in low-income nations, and the IAPD International lecture program.

Dr. Wright was a Visiting Professor at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, at Baylor College in Texas, at Sydney University in Australia, at Ulm University in Germany, and Trinity College in Ireland. For his work in Belarus, he received a Doctor Honoris Causa. In 2001, he was awarded the Medal of Paris for his work with children around the world. In Romania, he was referred to as the father of modern pediatric dentistry. In 2003, he received the A.J. Herman Fellowship from the University of Western Australia for enriching their understanding of how to help less fortunate countries improve the dental health of children.

In his retirement Dr. Wright was also busy in London, with Temple Israel, with his weekly hiking group, painting and with daily work outs at the Y. He also logged a lot of miles back and forth to Stratford.

Dr. Wright was an Honourary Member of the Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

(Please see the IAPD's November 2019 e-news)

A message from Dr. Raymond Lee, President of CAPD/ACDP

It was with great sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the passing of Dr. Gerald (Gerry) Zanvil Wright on October 30, 2019.

As we all know, Gerry was truly one of the pioneers and "grandfathers" of Paediatric Dentistry in Canada, and a leader around the World. I, as many of us were, was privileged to have "GZ" as a teacher, colleague and mentor for all these years. I fondly remember when he asked me to his office after clinic in 4th year at the University of Western Ontario. I thought that I was in major trouble for something I said or did, which would not have been surprising. Gerry simply wanted to pull me aside and suggest that I pursue Paedo. You can imagine how that small gesture, on his personal time, made me feel. The encouragement from such a true "giant" was invaluable. That moment and his ongoing support since then has truly shaped my life as I know it. Thank you, sir!

Many of us were at his memorial service in London. It was so Gerry, the north Winnipeg boy. Precise, succinct and orderly on one hand. And loving, sentimental and funny on the other. Gerry is survived by his wife, Nancy, and his three sons, Michael, Charles and Jeffrey, who all spoke so lovingly and eloquently. Gerry had a great life, and I am glad to know that he is resting in peace now.

Thank you GZ. From all of us. RIP my friend.

C’est avec grande tristesse et un serrement au cœur que nous vous informons du décès du Dr Gerald (Gerry) Zanvil Wright le 30 octobre 2019.

Comme nous le savons tous, Gerry était l’un des véritables pionniers et « grands-pères » de la dentisterie pédiatrique au Canada, un chef de file de renommée mondiale. J’ai eu le privilège, comme bon nombre d’entre nous, d’avoir eu « GZ » comme professeur, collègue et mentor pendant toutes ces années. Je garde un souvenir impérissable du jour où il m’a fait venir à son bureau après sa clinique de quatrième année à l’Université Western Ontario. Je pensais que j’aurais de graves ennuis à cause de ce que j’avais dit ou fait, ce qui n’aurait pas été surprenant. Gerry voulait simplement me prendre à part et me suggérer de poursuivre mes études en dentisterie pédiatrique. Vous pouvez imaginer à quel point ce petit geste tout à fait désintéressé m’a fait plaisir. Cet encouragement de la part d’un tel « géant » était inestimable. Ce moment et son soutien indéfectible par la suite ont vraiment façonné la vie que je mène aujourd’hui. Merci Monsieur Wright !

Nombreux sont ceux d’entre nous qui ont assisté à la cérémonie commémorative à London. C’était tellement à son image, celle du Gerry de Winnipeg Nord : précis, succinct et ordonné d’une part et affectueux, sentimental et amusant d’autre part. Gerry laisse dans le deuil son épouse Nancy et ses trois fils, Michael, Charles et Jeffrey, qui lui ont tous rendu hommage avec amour et éloquence. Gerry a eu une très belle vie, et je suis heureux qu’il repose maintenant en paix.

Merci GZ. De la part de nous tous. Adieu cher ami.

Dr. Gordon Nikiforuk

Membre honoraire de l'Académie

1922 - July 22, 2019

Le 30 juillet 2019

Cher(ère)s membres,

Nous avons appris que le Dr Gordon Nikiforuk, qui avait reçu le titre de membre honoraire de l’Académie en 2001, est décédé la semaine dernière. Nous avons reproduit l’hommage rendu au Dr Nikiforuk par Daniel Haas, le doyen de la faculté de médecine dentaire de l’Université de Toronto.

Dans le prochain numéro de l’infolettre The Mirror, l’ACDP/CAPD rendra également hommage au Dr Nikiforuk en publiant des souvenirs d’anciens collègues.

L’ACDP/CAPD partage la tristesse causée par le décès du Dr Nikiforuk et offre, au nom de tous ses membres, ses plus sincères condoléances à sa famille.

Veuillez agréer mes sentiments les plus sincères.

Le président,

Dr Raymond Lee

et

le directeur exécutif,

Dr Ross Anderson

In memoriam : Dr Gordon Nikiforuk

Daniel Haas, doyen de la faculté de médecine dentaire, Université de Toronto

Cher(ère)s professeur(e)s et membres du personnel,

C’est avec une grande tristesse que je vous annonce le décès, la semaine dernière, du Dr Gordon Nikiforuk, ancien doyen et membre du corps professoral.

Diplômé en médecine dentaire de l’Université de Toronto en 1947, le Dr Nikiforuk a poursuivi ses études et obtenu une maîtrise en sciences de l’Université de l’Illinois à Urbana en 1954 avec une spécialité en dentisterie pédiatrique. Comme cette spécialité n’a été reconnue aux États-Unis qu’en 1947, le Dr Nikiforuk fut l’un des premiers à qui on a remis un diplôme dans ce domaine de spécialisation en Amérique du Nord.

En janvier 1970, le Dr Nikiforuk revint à notre faculté de médecine dentaire à titre de professeur et de directeur adjoint des études supérieures en sciences biologiques. En juillet 1970, il fut nommé doyen de la faculté, poste qu’il occupa jusqu’en 1977. Il continua à enseigner à la faculté jusqu’à sa retraite en 1989, mais y retourna comme professeur associé en médecine dentaire jusqu’en 1993. Au fil des ans, le Dr Nikiforuk eut une énorme influence au sein de l’école et auprès de générations d’étudiants; il parraina même la création du programme de spécialisation en dentisterie pédiatrique de l’Université de Toronto, le premier du genre au Canada, qui vit le jour au début des années 1960.

En 1990, le Dr Nikiforuk se vit décerner la plus prestigieuse récompense de la faculté de médecine dentaire, le Prix de distinction. En 1997, l’entreprise Colgate-Palmolive Canada inc. créa un prix en hommage au Dr Nikiforuk afin de souligner le rôle crucial qu’il a joué en enseignant la médecine dentaire préventive jusqu’à sa retraite en 1989.

Le Dr Nikiforuk laisse dans le deuil son épouse Marge et ses deux fils, Chris et Andrew.

Je vous prie d’agréer mes sentiments les plus sincères.

Le doyen,

Daniel Haas

Remembering Dr. Donald Cheung

September 16, 1939 - October 24, 2017

Dear Members,

CAPD/ACDP regrets to inform you that Dr. Donald Cheung recently passed away suddenly in Montreal. A short time ago he celebrated 50 years as a dentist. He had been a long time member of our Academy and had practiced in Sherwood Park (near Edmonton) and also Vancouver. There will be no funeral.

CAPD/ACDP extends our very sincere condolences to Dr. Cheung’s family, as well as his many friends and associates.

Paul Andrews

President

On Behalf of the CAPD/ACDP Executive Committee

A tribute from Dr. Dennis Bedard:

I had known Donald since 1976 when he was a part time instructor in the Pedo department at the Faculty of Dentistry, U of A. He taught there for a number of years after graduating from Pedo in 1971, again from the U of A as at that time they had a graduate program in Pedo.

Dr. Cheung on his last trip to Nicaragua

Donald had immigrated to Canada from Hong Kong to attend McGill University to study dentistry. He graduated in 1967 at which time he moved to Alberta. He had a private practice in Sherwood Park, about 15 minutes east of Edmonton. He sold his practice in 2003 and moved to Vancouver where he practiced for another year.

Donald was instrumental in setting up care for the Special needs patients in Edmonton working at Rosecrest Home, a facility for special needs with complicating medical issues. He was also the staff dentist for a number of years at Eric Cormack Centre for special needs adults, again with compromised medical issues. He had a number of special needs patients in his practice.

Donald and I used to travel to AAPD conventions together. We had become very good friends. I asked him if he would be interested in working on one of our dental missions, he said yes. He was 61 at the time. He enjoyed himself and continued to travel with us for 5 years providing dental services to the less fortunate of the country.

Donald was a very fast operator. I remember him at school, preaching that a pediatric dentist’s gift was speed and communication. I did not realize just how fast he was until I saw him doing restorative work in difficult situations in Guatemala. His speed never compromised his results. He was gifted with this talent.

Donald liked to have fun. He had many stories to tell. He was generous with his time and donations. I was honored to have him as colleague and a friend. He will be missed.

Donald is survived by his loving wife, Linda, daughters, Tracy (Kevin), Jennifer (David), stepsons, Scott (Stephanie) and Jarret along with 8 grandchildren.