08/26/2026
It’s taken me some time to write this out because I think we all didn’t want to believe this day would ever come.
Loren made the decision to retire after 37 years in our practice at the beginning of this year. She started at this practice after finishing dental assisting school and became Dr. Straka’s main assistant and at times his “right hand”. He trained her so well I believe she could be a dentist. 😉 But she wasn’t just an employee she loved each of her patients as if they were part of her family. You could and still can say someone’s name and she knows everything about them (even things on their account). Later in her career she transitioned into the office manager. There was nothing she couldn’t do or figure out how to do it. She truly was the heartbeat of our practice over the last 37 years. She has always been one of the most hardworking people I have ever met. She made that mark on me and has taught me how to form the relationships with my patients so they trust you and in turn become friends. Some people say you “overshare”….nope that’s part of being a great hygienist/assistant/dentist because you never know if your story could help another person and vice versa.
I have been blessed to be able to work my entire career (18 years) with Loren. She wasn’t just a co worker she has been my best friend….from the first day I met her she asked me at lunch “Do you not talk” because I was being quiet 🤣 and I think we have been talking since that day! With every up and down moments of life we have been by each other’s side! Watching Andrew grow up before our eyes, me having my two kiddos, multiple deployments of your husband, family get togethers, birthday parties, Christmas parties, and some very hard life changes for me over the last 4 years. I couldn’t have made it through life without you bestie! 🩷🩷 I love you and can’t wait to watch you enjoy this next chapter of life! 😎
Your beautiful face will be greatly missed in our practice!! Please help me congratulate Loren on this huge milestone and feel free to share any memories you have with her as well!! 🍾
