Dr. Sheldon Rose’s dental practice was a fixture of Kingston Road for almost 40 years. Just before Christmas, Rose finally hung up his drill for the final time.

His first office, which opened in April, 1967, was on the south side of Kingston Road near Balsam, above Dyer’s Drug Store (now Mullins Irish Pub). Just two years out of dental school, Rose really thought he would be practising in the West End. But, “by word of mouth,” Rose said that his practice grew, and by 1982 he moved across the street to “a nicer office at street level."

Dr. Rose’s retirement was brought to our attention by a former patient who thought that it was worthy of a story. Dr. Rose was pleased that people wanted to commemorate his leaving.

“I just did what I did...I hope I contributed in many little ways."

Rose said, that until he started to cut back on his hours, he didn’t realize what an impact he had had.

“I was a part of so many families – three to four generations came to me...I will miss them.”

Rose insists, however, that part of his success was having – and retaining – a great staff.

“They created such a lovely family atmosphere...They are fabulous people and I am going to keep in touch.”

The staff gave him a surprise party before he left, but the gift that most touched his heart was from Lila McIndoe, who was Dr. Rose’s hygienist for 20 years. She contacted all of Dr. Rose’s old staff and gathered them together one Sunday afternoon for a photo.

“I will treasure it forever,” said Rose.

Rose doesn’t have any concerns about his patients. Dr. Sidney Reyes, who has taken over the practice, is a fine dentist, said Rose, with an extended education in toothcare.

Rose is looking forward to retirement, and will spend his time playing golf and working with model trains.