In Memoriam: Dr. Don Farquhar
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Don Farquhar, DDS. Dr. Farquhar passed away on March 5, 2025 and is survived by his wife of 46 years, three daughters, and three grandchildren. Dr. Farquhar recently served as President of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM). Previously, he served as President-elect, Secretary/Treasurer and Director-At-Large for the ABDSM. He was also very involved with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine most recently serving as an associate clinical editor for the Journal of Dental Sleep Medicine. He also served as a member of the AADSM Education Committee, Chair of the the Essentials of Dental Sleep Medicine and Board Review Course, served on faculty of the Practical Demonstration Course, and was one of the authors of the AADSM's “Management of Sided Effects of Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep-Disordered Breathing” consensus recommendations. In this tribute, Dr. Richard Dunn, Dr. Farquhar's colleague and current ABDSM President, reflects on his legacy: |  |
“Don Farquhar was an extraordinary person. Throughout his tenure on the ABDSM, his extensive knowledge of the field, expertise and insights always ensured the ABDSM continued to pursue excellence. To know Don was to know his true kindness. Don was soft spoken and his laugh would fill a room with joy. It is often said that a person can be judged by what they do with their life, and Don devoted his to helping others. After practicing general dentistry for 40 years, his passion for learning led him to shift his focus to dental sleep medicine where he quickly ascended to the top of the field. He was very well known and active in his hometown of Midland, Ontario and made multiple trips to the Dominican Republic to provide dental care to underserved communities.
Outside of his profession he was passionate about cycling, kayaking (often on the Great Lakes), hiking, swimming, snowshoeing, scuba diving and skiing. He ran 17 full marathons, including 2 in Boston, many triathlons and was most proud of completing the Half Ironman. He loved international travel with his wife Bonnie. He never met an instrument he didn't like and played the guitar and fiddle and enjoyed years of solo gigs and with his band Blind Mary.
Don will be missed and remembered by all that knew him."
Outside of his profession he was passionate about cycling, kayaking (often on the Great Lakes), hiking, swimming, snowshoeing, scuba diving and skiing. He ran 17 full marathons, including 2 in Boston, many triathlons and was most proud of completing the Half Ironman. He loved international travel with his wife Bonnie. He never met an instrument he didn't like and played the guitar and fiddle and enjoyed years of solo gigs and with his band Blind Mary.
Don will be missed and remembered by all that knew him."
-Dr. Richard B. Dunn, DDS