The Newport Beach community and the wider dental profession are in mourning following the tragic death of Dr. John Willardsen, the esteemed founder and CEO of Trust Implants and Trust Institute. Dr. Willardsen passed away on July 6, 2024. His passing was announced through a poignant social media post: “It is with a heavy heart that I reach to you with sad news. I were notified this morning about the passing of a former student of the Implant Dentistry program; Dr John Willardsen.”
Who Was Dr. John Willardsen?
Dr. John Willardsen was a distinguished dental professional whose career was marked by excellence, dedication, and a passion for implant dentistry. He began his journey in dentistry by completing his undergraduate studies at Brigham Young University before earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry from 1993 to 1997. Dr. Willardsen then entered a prestigious residency program at the Loma Linda University Center for Implant Dentistry, which he completed from 1997 to 2001. At that time, Loma Linda University and Harvard University were the only institutions in the country offering full-time residency programs dedicated to implant surgery and implant prosthodontics.
Dr. Willardsen’s extensive education and training equipped him with a profound understanding of the complex discipline of implant surgery and restoration. He was committed to advancing the field of implant dentistry and was passionate about teaching and continuing education. As an Assistant Clinical Professor at Loma Linda University’s Center for Implant Dentistry, he pursued his passion for educating future dental professionals.
About Dr. John Willardsen
Dental implants have become the standard of care for replacing lost or missing teeth, and Dr. Willardsen’s expertise in this area was widely recognized. His primary objective was to help patients regain their smiles, providing support and aesthetics essential for proper mastication and digestion. His comprehensive understanding of implant surgery and restoration allowed him to transform the lives of countless patients.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Willardsen was a devoted family man. He spent his free time attending school functions and sporting activities with his family—his wife Marie and their four children, Zac, Dane, Seth, and Elsa. He was also actively involved in various leadership positions within his church and played a significant role in a Southern California mentoring program for professionals in his field. His interests extended to outdoor activities, including cycling, motocross, wakeboarding, snow skiing, and snowmobiling.
Fundraising for Dr. John Willardsen’s Family
In the wake of Dr. Willardsen’s tragic passing, Kimberly Hunter has organized a GoFundMe campaign to support the Willardsen family during this incredibly difficult time. The fundraiser aims to raise $50,000 to cover ongoing expenses and provide some stability. At the time of this report, the campaign has raised $16,855. The community’s generosity and support are a testament to the high regard in which Dr. Willardsen was held and the impact he had on so many lives.
Community Response and Tributes
The news of Dr. John Willardsen’s death has led to an outpouring of grief and tributes from the dental community and beyond. Colleagues, students, and patients have shared stories of his kindness, dedication, and the profound influence he had on their lives. His contributions to the field of implant dentistry and his commitment to teaching and mentoring future professionals are deeply appreciated and will be greatly missed.
The family of Dr. Willardsen has expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support and love they have received during this incredibly difficult time. The community’s response provides a source of strength and solace as they navigate their grief.
Funeral Arrangements
The obituary and funeral arrangements for Dr. John Willardsen will be released by his family at a later date. As they cope with this profound loss, the family’s focus remains on celebrating John’s life and the indelible mark he left on those around him.
Dr. John Willardsen’s passing is a significant loss for the Newport Beach community and the dental profession. His legacy as a visionary leader, dedicated educator, and compassionate practitioner will be remembered and celebrated. As the community comes together to support the Willardsen family, the enduring impact of Dr. Willardsen’s life and the values he exemplified continue to inspire. The beauty of his spirit and the love he shared with his cherished family and friends serve as a lasting testament to his remarkable life.
