Ann Arbor, MI — September 11, 2012 — One of the University of Michigan School of Dentistry’s most renowned and beloved educators and practitioners, Dr. Robert Aldrich, died at his home on September 8.  He was 88 years old. 

Dr. Aldrich’s death occurred about three months following a celebration of his life and achievements as a scholarship in his name was presented for the first time during the Graduate Orthodontics Dinner on June 6.

Dr. Aldrich received his DDS from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1946 and a master’s degree in orthodontics, also from the School of Dentistry, in 1949.  He taught for more than 20 years, lectured worldwide, and was co-chairman of the Department of Orthodontics in the late sixties.  He was a full professor of dentistry from 1966-1970, maintaining a private practice in Ann Arbor from 1970 until he retired in 1991.

Dr. Lysle Johnston, past chair of the Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, said, “The loss of a friend is sad, no matter when it occurs.  In this case, however, the timing was uncommonly kind: Bob lived to see the impact of his generosity on today's students.  His plans came to fruition and he was present to receive our love and appreciation.  His was a life well lived.”

Richard Fetchiet, director of Alumni Relations, said of Dr. Aldrich, “If you looked up the word ‘gentleman’ in the dictionary, you would have seen a picture of Dr. Aldrich right next to it.  He was a consummate professional and a generous man whose life affected the lives of many over the years including students, faculty, staff, and patients.”

Dr. Daniel Balbach, who practiced with Dr. Aldrich for 38 years, said, “Bob played a major role in my life.  He was my friend, teacher, mentor, and partner.  I have always been deeply grateful for all he did for me.”

Dr. Sunil Kapila, chair of the Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, said, “Bob was a wonderful and true gentleman who touched the lives of so many in a positive way.”

Visitation will be at the Nie Funeral Home, 3767 W. Liberty Road, Ann Arbor, on Wednesday, Sept. 12, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.  A celebration of Dr. Aldrich’s life and service will take place Thursday, Sept. 13, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 306 N. Division St., Ann Arbor.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Dr. Robert Aldrich can be made to the Robert G. Aldrich Graduate Orthodontics Scholarship Fund at the U-M School of Dentistry.  Please make the check payable to the University of Michigan and mail to the Office of Development, 540 E. Liberty, Suite 204, Ann Arbor, MI 48104-2210.  On the memo line, note “Dr. Aldrich Fund.”

Gifts may also be made to another cause close to Dr. Aldrich, the St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church Breakfast Program.  Make checks payable to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, noting “Aldrich” on the memo line.  For more information, visit the Nie Funeral Home Web site: www.niefuneralhomes.com.