Dr. Gordon Thompson

On January 28, 2026, Dr. Gordon Thompson passed away peacefully after a short illness at the age of 85 in Edmonton. He will be greatly missed by his three children, Janice (Cory), Phil (Karie) and Andrew (Pam). He leaves behind his eight treasured grandsons: Jackson, Owen, Noah, Dylan, Hayden, Zachary, Gregory and Charles. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Marilyn, of 54 years in 2018, their son Blair in 1972 and his parents, Clarence and Emma. He also leaves behind his companion, Florence Lymburner.

Born in Vancouver, he grew up in Hope, B.C. and attended the University of British Columbia to study Science. He graduated from Dentistry at the University of Alberta in 1965 and then obtained a Masters Degree and PhD from the University of Toronto. He had a distinguished career in dentistry as Associate Dean at the University of Toronto, Dean for 11 years at the University of Alberta, and then served for over 20 years as the Executive Director and Registrar at the Alberta Dental Association and College. He published over 100 articles and wrote a book detailing the history of dentistry in Alberta. Gordon also worked with the World Health Organization and served as the Director of Dental Health Services with Alberta Public Health. Gordon was also an enthusiastic member of the International College of Dentists (Canada Section) and was serving as Registrar. He had fellowships with the Royal College of Dentists of Canada, the International College, the American College, the Pierre Fauchard Academy and Dentistry International. Gordon served on numerous boards including the International College of Dentists (Canada Section), Canadian Dental Association, Alberta Dental Association and College, Ontario Dental Association, Canadian Dental Regulatory Authorities Federation, Canadian Fund for Dental Education, Canadian Association of Public Health Dentistry, Health Canada, and Royal College of Dentists of Canada.

He has received numerous awards and accolades for his service to the profession, including the Distinguished Service Award and Honorary Membership from the Canadian Dental Association, along with their highest achievement, the Medal of Honour. He has also received Alumni Awards from the University of Toronto and the University of Alberta, as well as the Bulyea Cup from the University of Alberta Faculty of Dentistry. The Pierre Fauchard Academy bestowed their Award of Excellence and the International College of Dentists (Canada Section) awarded him the Presidential Citation. Gordon received the Award of Excellence from the Alberta Dental Association and College and recently had the Boardroom of the College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta named in his honour.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the Ottewell United Church at 6611 - 93A Avenue with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to CRINA (Cancer Research Institute of Northern Alberta) in his name.