Remembering Dentistry Leaders Dr. David A. Goerz Dr. David Goerz of Morden, Manitoba, passed away on May 11, 2025, at age 60. A lifelong resident of Morden, Dr. Goerz graduated with his DMD from the University of Manitoba (U of M). Shortly after, he returned to his hometown to join his father in dental practice at Care Dental Group. Over his career, Dr. Goerz embodied the highest ideals of the profession—integrity, empathy and clinical excellence. He was widely respected for his dedication to patient care, often extending himself beyond expectations. It was not unusual for him to respond to emergency calls late at night or on weekends. His practice philosophy was simple but powerful: the patient’s well-being always comes first. This principle earned him the trust and admiration of his patients, colleagues and community. “Living and practising in rural Manitoba, David was a tireless advocate for improved access to care for Canadians, and in particular, those living outside large urban centres,” says Dr. Marc Mollot, CDA board member and Manitoba Dental Association (MDA) pastpresident. Dr. Goerz’s impact extended well beyond his clinic. In 2019–20, he served as MDA president, where he demonstrated steady leadership during the difficult early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Dave was a champion for all things dentistry, being involved in organized dentistry locally, provincially and nationally. Leading by example, he always gave back in any way he could. He believed in the power of people and communication. He was laser-focused on relationships as the key driver for success,” says Dr. Mollot. Dr. Goerz also advocated for advancements in dental education and workforce development. He was a champion for local dental assisting programs to help overcome health care challenges in rural regions, recognizing the need for better access. “Dave was also a huge leader in the MDA/UofM mentorship program for dental students. He felt that this program was so integral to their development,” says Dr. Scott Leckie, who met Dr. Goerz in dental school and remained a close friend. “He was MDA president when I came on the board and he was such a great mentor to me during my presidency, he would always provide me with sage advice.” “Everyone knew Dr. Goerz—a celebrated colleague and mentor,” says Dr. Huma Sharief, a Winnipeg dentist and advocate for the Manitoba mentorship program. “He loved both students and dentistry, and was a regular guest speaker at the mentorship program, passionately sharing anecdotes, sage wisdom and heartfelt life advice encouraging graduates to discover the rewards of rural practice. In his absence, Manitoba feels quieter yet his spirit endures,” she says. Outside of dentistry, Dr. Goerz made significant contributions to his community. He played a key leadership role in the development and stewardship of Boundary Trails Place, a vital health care hub serving the Morden area. Dr. Goerz’s legacy serves as a powerful reminder that dentistry, at its best, is as much about service and humanity as it is about science and technique. Dr. Goerz is survived by his wife Helena and their children, Stephen, Danielle and Kristopher. 38 | 2025 | Issue 4 Obituaries
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