Obituary of Dr. Maria Pomališ DDS (née Dvonč)

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Maria Pomališ, a beloved mother, sister, aunt, and friend, on October 27, 2024, in Ottawa, Canada, following a lengthy illness. Born on December 14, 1941, in Žiar nad Hronom, Slovakia, Maria was the cherished daughter of late Jan Dvonč and Anna Gonzur.

Maria was predeceased by her devoted husband, Richard and her brother, Milan, and is survived by her son, Richard (Joanne); sister-in-law, Anna Dvonč; her nieces Marianna and Daniela along with their families; and sister-in-law Helen Komrska (Frank) and nephew Peter.

A skilled dental surgeon, Maria began her career in Czechoslovakia before immigrating to Montreal with her family in 1968. After earning an additional degree from McGill University, she established her dental practice in Ottawa in 1974. Often noted as a “painless dentist,” Maria earned the trust and gratitude of her patients through her dedication, professionalism, and genuine care.

Beyond her practice, Maria had a deep passion for gardening and a remarkable ability to nurture and propagate plants of all kinds. Her love for horticulture took her on travels to Southeast Asia, where she imported orchids from Thailand that continue to bloom in her memory. She also cherished spending winters in the Caribbean, especially on Grand Bahama Island.

Following the sale of her dental practice, Maria devoted several years to caring for elderly patients in nursing homes. In her later years, she found comfort tending to her beloved plants and sharing her warmth with neighbors and their dogs, who brought her joy.

No formal service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Cancer Society or the Heart & Stroke Foundation are appreciated.