Dear Colleagues,
It is with profound sadness that I share the news of the passing of Dr. Makoto (Mike) Suzuki, a highly respected educator, researcher, clinician, and leader in Dentistry. Dr. Suzuki passed away in London, Ontario on June 26, 2026, at the age of 87.
Dr. Suzuki’s remarkable journey in dentistry began in Japan, where he graduated as a dentist from Tokyo Dental College. In 1964, he entered a new phase of his life and career in North America at the Forsyth Dental Centre in Boston. He continued his academic development by completing a Diploma in Dental Public Health at the Harvard School of Public Health and a Master of Science degree at the University of Rochester, New York, in 1967.
Dr. Suzuki served as a professor of Operative Dentistry at the University of Western Ontario before joining the University of Manitoba Faculty of Dentistry, where he spent more than 35 years as a respected faculty member, researcher, and mentor. He later served as Head of the Department of Restorative Dentistry, providing academic leadership and shaping the education of generations of dental students.
Dr. Suzuki was a pioneer in the field of restorative dentistry and dental materials science. During his years at the Eastman Dental Center and throughout his academic career, he worked closely with Dr. R.E. (Ron) Jordan (past Dean of the U of M Faculty of Dentistry) in the study of emerging dental adhesive materials. Their research was translational and became fundamental to modern day adhesive dentistry. Drs. Suzuki and Jordan travelled throughout the world to share the outcome of their extensive body of research in order to advance clinical practice and the evidence-based standard of care in the use of composites. I had the privilege to attend one of their continuing education courses as a dental student and it left an indelible impression in my mind.
Dr. Suzuki’s commitment to excellence in clinical dentistry and education was evident in the high standards he maintained for his students throughout decades of teaching in operative dentistry. Many graduates remember him as a demanding yet dedicated mentor who inspired precision, professionalism, and lifelong commitment to patient care. As one of his students, I was both in awe of his technical skills but also was inspired to learn and reach the precision and artistry of his work. I feel very fortunate to have been taught Restorative Dentistry by him.
His dedication to dental education continues through the Drs. R.E. Jordan & M. Suzuki Award in Operative Dentistry, established to recognize the third-year dental student achieving the highest standing in RSTD 3512 Operative Dentistry. His contributions to the University of Manitoba were also recognized through his receipt of the Alumni of Distinction Award in 2001.
Dr. Suzuki’s legacy extends beyond his professional accomplishments through his family. His son, Dr. Jonathan Suzuki, followed his father’s path in Dentistry, graduating from the University of Manitoba’s dental program in 1995 and later completing specialty training in orthodontics.
A graduate of the University of Manitoba Faculty of Dentistry, Class of 1969, Dr. Suzuki remained deeply connected to the University and the dental profession throughout his life. He was an active member of the International College of Dentists (ICD) and served as its National President in 2007, joining a distinguished group of Manitobans who have held this important leadership role.
Dr. Suzuki leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of scholarship, mentorship, leadership, and service. His contributions have had a lasting impact on our college, our profession, and the many students, colleagues, and patients whose lives he influenced.
On behalf of our students, staff and faculty at the Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry, I extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Suzuki’s family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We are grateful for his many years of dedication and for the lasting contributions he made to our profession.
May his memory continue to inspire future generations of dental professionals. The link below is available: Makoto “Mike” Suzuki – Harris Funeral Home.
Dr. Anastasia Kelekis-Cholakis
Dean, Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry
Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba