John Whitehead

It is with profound sadness and loss that we announce the passing of John Whitehead at the CHSLD Herron on April 11,2020. John was born in Smithfield, North Carolina to John and Grace Whitehead. He is survived by his beloved wife Roxanne, his children Darrell and Keira (Christopher Sowinski); and his sister Margaret, his brother Randolph and nieces and nephews.

John received his B.SC. from the University of North Carolina, and graduated from the McGill Faculty of Dentistry in 1961 along with his classmate Roxanne Buchak. They married September 1961.

John and Roxanne practiced dentistry in North Carolina for a year, but Montreal beckoned their return. They then established a dental practice in the Town of Mount Royal which granted them many happy, fulfilling and satisfying years. John’s love of dentistry persisted through the years. At McGill he was Dental Faculty Lecturer, University Lecturer and Associate Professor in 1979. Professional Societies included The Canadian Dental Association ,The Montreal Dental Club’s Communications Committee, The Montreal Study Club—first a member-then Vice president -Secretary Treasurer and last the President. In 1991, he was invited to become a member of the International College of Dentists.

At age 72, John retired and turned his attention to golfing with his family and friends at The Arundel Gold and Country Club, and The Royal Montreal Golf Club. In 1963 the Whitehead Family enjoyed waterskiing. boating and swimming at Bark Lake. In 1987 winters were spent at Gator Trace Golf and Country Club in Florida.

Unfortunately Parkinson’ Disease interrupted his leisure and happiness. For slowly it began to imprison him until he was unable to battle the disease that would plague him nor the destructive Corona Virus. We will remember John for his honesty, his strive for perfection and his moments of quiet reflection. His love of family, friends and dentistry were the highlight of his existence.

The funeral service will be private.

Donations in John’s memory may be made to Parkinson’s disease or a charity of your choice. Parkinsons.ca 416-227-9700