Remembering Dentistry Leaders Dr. Gordon Thompson Dr. Gordon Thompson of Edmonton, Alberta, passed away on January 28, 2026, at age 85. Born in Vancouver and raised in Hope, BC, Dr. Thompson’s journey into dentistry was grounded in a deep-rooted commitment to science and service. He began his formal studies at the University of British Columbia (UBC), going on to earn his dental degree at the University of Alberta (U of A) in 1965. He continued at the University of Toronto (U of T), where he completed his MSc and PhD degrees, laying the foundation for a distinguished and influential career in organized dentistry in Canada. Dr. Thompson excelled as a practitioner, an academic and an administrator. He served as associate dean of dentistry at U of T and devoted 11 transformative years as dean at the U of A faculty of dentistry. Dr. Thompson’s influence extended well beyond academia. He served as executive director and registrar of the Alberta Dental Association and College (ADA+C) for over 20 years, where his steady hand helped steer organized dentistry through periods of significant change and growth. “Every president’s speech I ever heard, including mine, would always start off with great praise and admiration of Gordon, for his great help in assisting, guiding and supporting the ADA+C president throughout the year,” remembers Dr. Larry Hodinsky, ADA+C president in 2014-15. “Gordon’s commitment, big heart and input to our dental profession is unmatched, in so many ways.” Dr. Thompson was a passionate advocate for dentistry at every level, serving on the boards of CDA, the Ontario Dental Association, the Canadian Dental Regulatory Authorities Federation, and the Canadian Association of Public Health Dentistry. “Gord had many great qualities that were important to his position as CEO of this professional body,” says Dr. Stuart Root, past-president of the ADA+C in 2004-05. “His organizational skills were exceptional, he had his own rules of conduct for Alberta Presidents (“Gordon’s Rules”) and he really knew how to ‘read a room,’” recalls Dr. Root. “I have fond memories of Dr. Thompson, both professionally and personally,” remembers Claude Paul Boivin, former CEO of CDA. “He certainly helped me understand organized dentistry and provided wise counsel. He would go out of his way to make me feel welcome whenever I travelled to Alberta and always made time for me when we attended meetings across the country and beyond,” he says. “Gord had a remarkable and unforgettable sense of humour that made everything more enjoyable. He was a wise leader and leaves a huge vacuum in oral health in Canada.” Dr. Thompson’s strategic vision and collaborative spirit earned him respect across the national and international dental community. His contributions were recognized through numerous awards, including CDA’s Distinguished Service Award, Honorary Membership, and the Medal of Honour, along with accolades from the U of A, U of T, the ADA+C and the Pierre Fauchard Academy, to name just a few. His legacy and lasting impact in Alberta is evident, as the College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta named its boardroom in his honour. Dr. Thompson is survived by his three children Janice (Cory), Phil (Karie), and Andrew (Pam) and his beloved grandsons. He was predeceased by his wife of 54 years, Marilyn (2018) and their son Blair (1972). He also leaves behind his companion, Florence Lymburner. 38 | 2026 | Issue 2 Obituaries
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