Former ADA trustee dies at 90

Former American Dental Association trustee and retired endodontist James H. Pearce Jr., D.D.S., died Jan. 31 at age 90.

Dr. Pearce served as trustee from 1991-95. His other roles within organized dentistry included president of the Colorado Dental Association, Rocky Mountain Dental Study Club and Denver Dental Forum, according to his obituary.

Dr. Pearce also was the director of what is now Dental Lifeline Network, which provides free, comprehensive dental treatment to people with disabilities, seniors and people with other medical conditions.

Dr. Pearce graduated in 1955 from the former Northwestern University Dental School in Illinois. He served two years in the U.S. Air Force Dental Corps before practicing privately in Denver until 1990.

He presented nationally on endodontics and was an instructor in the Metro Denver Dental Society study club program. His honors included receiving the Honus Maximus Award from the Metro Denver Dental Society and the Distinguished Service Award from the Colorado Dental Association, as well as being named honorary alumnus of the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, according to his obituary.

Dr. Pearce is survived by his wife, Catherine, five children, 16 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, one sister and two brothers.

Donations in his honor may be made to Dental Lifeline Network at dentallifeline.org or 1800 15th St., Suite 100, Denver, CO 80202.