JOHN BOSCO CURRAN

Condolences & Memories (6 entries)

• It is with great sadness that I extend my deepest condolences to the family of Dr. John Curran, an exceptional faculty member, dedicated educator, and distinguished member of our professional community. Dr. Curran joined the Dr. Geral Niznick College of Dentistry in 1971 and became Program Director and section Head of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery in 1986. He served in that capacity for decades, guiding the program through periods of growth, change, and accomplishment. Dr. Curran trained generations of residents and dental students who are now practicing nationally and internationally. As one of those students, I remember him as a patient yet exacting teacher. I am grateful for his kindness, amiability, and willingness to support the college as a Senior Scholar up to the time of his passing. He was a mentor who cared deeply for the development of his trainees, an educator who upheld the highest standards, and a colleague whose presence brought steadiness and insight. His contributions to the field of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and to the university community are immeasurable. Dr. Curran lived a dignified and fulfilling career, marked by dedication, integrity, and service. While his passing leaves a profound void, we find comfort in knowing that his influence will live through his students for years to come. Our sympathy extends to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. - Posted by: Anastasia Kelekis-Cholakis (Colleague and Dean of Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry) on: Nov 17, 2025

• Dr. Curran became my oral surgeon in the late 70s. He remained my surgeon until I moved to Ontario in 2011. He succeeded where others failed or wouldn't take my case. He was able to perform miracles on my TMJ; which was shattered in a car accident along with other bones in my face. He was able to open my mouth which had been closed for six years and subsequent surgeries through the years enabled me to have increased function and from outward appearances, looking normal. Technology was always one step away from what I needed. Technology caught up and I was able to have both TMJs replaced 10 years ago. I regret not seeing him after to show him how far I have come from the 11-year-old girl he worked so hard for. I have been comforted through the years when I would see my Ontario oral surgeon, who would have run into Dr. Curran at conferences, to be told that he sent his best wishes. He never forgot me; I will never forget him. I send my heartfelt condolences to his wife and his "wee ones". His "wee ones" are grown now, just as I am; his grandchildren would have carried on as his "wee ones". I will miss his Irish lilt, I will miss hearing him say: "Oh, Tammy's here" as he took my chart off the exam room door, I will miss so much about this great man who did everything in his power to make my life a wee bit better, who took a troubling case and made it work. May joy and peace surround you, contentment latch your door, and happiness be with you now, and bless you evermore. - Posted by: Tammy Jackson Nee. Meaden (Former Patient) on: Nov 17, 2025

• Dr. John Curran was one of my many teachers at the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Manitoba. He introduced me to Hospital Dentistry in my fourth year of dental school and I went on to apply for a Paediatric Internship at the Health Science Centre. Dr. Curran was very kind and very dedicated to Oral Surgery. His willingness to share his knowledge and experience with his students made him a wonderful mentor. I will always be grateful to have had him as my teacher. I have a very fond memory of Dr. Curran from 1984. I found myself in Churchill Manitoba working for the Faculty of Dentistry. There was a very long waiting list of patients in this isolated community that needed oral surgical treatment for impacted wisdom teeth. When I asked Dr. Curran whether he would come to the Churchill Health Centre to provide care, he did not hesitate to come. He even brought his own Anaesthesiologist, Dr. Judy Doyle, his wife. They were the perfect team and they embraced the opportunity to travel together and to serve the patients in this very cold, but beautiful and remote part of the Province of Manitoba. My sincerest condolences to the entire Curran Family. I hope the fond memories of him sustain you in the coming days. He is now resting in the arms of his Creator and experiencing his infinite love for him. A Great Polar Bear Hug to ALL from the Cantin Family. - Posted by: Roland Yves Cantin (Colleague) on: Nov 16, 2025

• Dr. Curran and his team at the University of Manitoba‘s Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery program accepted me as a resident. Dr. Curran was a wonderful educational mentor whose knowledge in our field was exceptional. He was a kind, gentleman who I cherished during residency and afterwards. I will always miss him. - Posted by: Bob Rishiraj (Resident) on: Nov 16, 2025

• John was the Program Director during my Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency in the 90s. I joined him in practice following my graduation and worked alongside him for 20 years. He continued on as a Senior Scholar at the University of Manitoba following his retirement from Private Practice—always a great help to any and all. No one had a sharper mind than John—no matter how odd of a patient problem presented or if a strange rare disease presentation needed demystifying, John had seen it all and could remember the details to help this young surgeon come up with answers. His knowledge was limitless and extended beyond oral surgery to include history—religion—culture—literature… He could sit and talk for hours on a variety of topics. I will treasure memories of the days of sitting and visiting with him over a cup of coffee and a pecan bun in the hospital cafeteria. I am grateful to have had his wisdom to guide me through my training, and memories of office practice with him will always bring a smile to my face. My deepest condolences to Judy and the entire Curran family. I’m certain he’s now up there in heaven entertaining angels with his tales. Until we meet again, John❤️ - Posted by: Catherine Dale (Colleague and friend) on: Nov 15, 2025

• Sorry to hear of John’s passing he had much good advice for me when I first came to Manitoba in 1976. Kindest Regards. Tony Davis - Posted by: Tony Davis (Dental colleague) on: Nov 15, 2025