Dr. Adrian Peter Gansen Jr., 89, of Shawano, passed away Tuesday, April 29, 2014, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 11, 1924, in Shawano, he was the son of the late Adrian and Eva (Cattau) Gansen Sr.
After graduating from Shawano High School, Adrian furthered his education by attending Marquette University School of Dentistry. However, with the start of World War II, Adrian put his education on hold and enlisted with the United States Air Force. His military service extended from 1943-1984 in active and reserve service with the Air Force as both a pilot and dental officer, retiring from reserve service with the rank of lieutenant colonel.
Upon discharge from active duty, Adrian returned to dental school. During his senior year, he was elected a member of American Kappa Epsilon National Honorary Dental Society. This was followed by a fellowship in the International College of Dentists. As a long-term member of the American Academy of Orthodontist for the General Practitioner, he chaired numerous committees and was president for two years. His orthodontic interests were furthered pursued as a member and past president of the Federation Association, charter member of American Association for Functional Orthodontics and life member of North Central Wisconsin Orthodontic Study Club. Adrian was a recipient of the Pharmaceuticals Award in Restoration Dentistry.
On Oct. 2, 1948, Adrian was united in marriage to Irene Kroening at the Peace United Church of Christ in Shawano. After returning to the Shawano area in 1951, Adrian established Gansen Dental Offices, later to be joined by his brother, Dr. Robert Gansen, and son, Dr. Adrian III. The couple was blessed with three children, Barbara, Patricia and Adrian III before Irene’s death in 1960. Her death was followed by Barbara in 1961 and Patti in 1976. In 1962 Adrian married Janalee (Fellenz) Schultz. Her son, Steve, joined the family, and he and Adrian III grew up as brothers.
Adrian had been very active in his dental profession at the local, state and national levels. He was a life member of the Shawano County Dental Society, Wisconsin Dental Association and American Dental Association for more than 60 years. He served as president and secretary-treasurer for his local society several times and as delegate to the Wisconsin Dental Association for 19 years. As director for Delta Dental Plans of Wisconsin for 13 years, he aided in its development and served as president for two years.
Adrian was a longtime member of Peace United Church of Christ, where he served on the church council, numerous committees and as president of the congregation. He had been a member of Shawano Fish and Game Protective Association, Shawano Gun Club, Ducks Unlimited and the National Rifle Association. He served on the board of the Shawano Area Chamber of Commerce and was an American Legionnaire since 1945. The Outstanding Citizens of American-Midwest Section also acknowledged him. Adrian had always been interested in Boy Scouting and he served as both camping and activities chairman for the Valley Council, B.S.A.
Adrian loved the outdoors. He was an avid skier for over 40 years while developing the Ski Brule Village with the Webers, who are lifelong friends. He had a constant companion in his dogs and was rarely spotted without them, especially when running around town. He also loved old cars. His 1964 Lincoln Continental, which he and his family meticulously restored, became affectionately referred to as Black Beauty. Travel was also a big part of Adrian’s life. He and Janalee had the privilege of exploring China, Mexico and Alaska to name a few favorite destinations.
Adrian is survived by his beloved wife, Janalee; two sons, Dr. Adrian Gansen III, Steven S. (Annette) Schultz; and grandchildren, Stephanie, Thomas and Scott Schultz.
Adrian was preceded in death by his wife, Irene; two daughters, Barbara and Patricia Gansen; his parents; two brothers, Dr. Robert Gansen, William (Joan) Gansen; and his grandparents.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, May 5, 2014, at Peace United Church of Christ in Shawano with the Rev. Marty Black officiating. Burial will be in the Woodlawn Cemetery in Shawano. Visitation will be held at the Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano on Sunday from 3-7 p.m. and at the church on Monday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service.
Memorial funds have been established.
www.swedbergfuneralhome.com
Categories
