Volume 7 • 2020 • Issue 3

and open, having done numerous procedures on patients that could not afford dental care, but desperately needed it,” he says. “If there was an urgent situation, he could always be reached at home and would open his practice after hours if he felt it might bring a patient relief.” Andre Kroecher remembers how positive his patient experience was every time he went to Dr. Vincent’s practice. “At chairside, if Denis sensed that you had a question or took an interest at a particular procedure, he would go to great lengths to use mirrors, draw extensive diagrams, bring out models and practically teach the patient about what, how and why he was doing something. After a treatment, Denis would often phone or text to check in.” Trudel Kroecher, points out how “‘going to the dentist’ had become a highlight—and this coming from someone who used to hide under the bed as a child when it was time to see the dentist!” According to the Kroechers, Dr. Vincent knew how to work with children, especially those who were scared of going to the dentist. “Several years ago, when I was in for a regular hygiene appointment, I overheard Dr. Vincent working with a young child, probably under the age of 5,” recalls Trudel. “I was absolutely amazed at how kindly and empathetically he handled this child, explaining everything he was doing in a friendly, easy-to-understand manner, with his typical kind and jovial voice. One of Dr. Vincent’s traits that stands out for me above all, was how he would continually thank his patients during procedures. He’d say things like, ’Thank you, you're doing a wonderful job,‘ and I would always laugh and tell him, ’You're the one doing the hard work, I should be thanking you.‘” “Though it was clear dentistry was his true passion, he would share stories about other interests he had, talking about his ski and sail adventures, singing and piano passion, and even his love of preparing his own gourmet meals,” says Andre. “I always marvelled at how fascinated and curious he was about the world,” adds Trudel. “Seeing Denis was always something we’d look forward to as a chance to connect with such an incredible person, all the while having the peace of mind that your mouth couldn’t be in the hands of a more caring and skilled health professional,” the couple remember. “To say that we will miss Dr. Vincent is a huge understatement. Our hearts go out to his two sons, they have lost their father far too soon and will miss out on so many years of his friendship, knowledge and guidance. As we all will.” “Everyone loved Denis—his patients, his staff, his friends. They always spoke very highly of him. I loved him dearly. I miss him every day.” O bituaries 31 Issue 3 | 2020 |