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In Memoriam

Class of 1970 (Periodontics)

DR. SIDNEY J. WISE, PERIODONTICS CLASS OF 1970

Dr. WiseDr. Sidney James “Jim” Wise of Seattle passed away peacefully on Jan. 21, surrounded by his three daughters. He was 82.

He was born in 1939 to Lucy and Clarence Wise. He grew up in Allegan, Mich., and developed a love for gardens from his mother, fishing in the creek with his father, and boating on Lake Michigan. He learned to drive his uncle’s tractor and bought his first car at age 14. His love of classic cars remained, and he later won the “Top Flight Award” with his self-restored 1963 Corvette split-window coupe. In high school he excelled at basketball, track, and football. He sang in the glee club, played French horn, and enjoyed sock hops.

He graduated with a degree in zoology from Michigan State University, married Lori Bonine, and graduated from dental school at the University of Michigan. The couple moved to Germany, where he served as a captain in the U.S. Army, traveled extensively, and developed passions for photography, cuisine, architecture, and art history.

The couple moved to Seattle and he attended the School of Dentistry, specializing in periodontal surgery and teaching. In 1970, he opened his practice and was one of the first periodontists in Bellevue, Wash.

With an eye for design, the couple built a custom French-inspired home where they raised their three daughters. A proud and compassionate father and grandfather, he regularly attended their performances, recitals, games, and meets. He encouraged them to follow their pursuits and professions without limitation.

He loved riding his Harley through winding roads, waterskiing on Lake Washington, fishing in the San Juan Islands on the Mackinaw, skiing fresh tracks, hunting, lying in the sun, and spending lazy days by his fireplace watching the Seahawks or Big Ten football.

Dr. Wise retired in Sun Valley, Idaho, a years-long “vacation” filled with skiing, motorcycling, golfing, hiking (reluctantly), horseback riding, rafting, grilling, and sledding with grandkids. In his final years, he found “young love” and happiness with Dorothy Miller.

He is survived by his former spouse and mother of his children, Lori Wise; daughters Lisa (Eric), Cheryl (Nathaniel), and Sara (Pete); grandchildren Mia, Zoe, Harper, and Thad; sister Mary Ann; and nephew Dr. Bill Renk. He is also survived by his former spouse, Alex duMauriée; step-daughters J’Aime and Devan (Eric); and grandson Xavier. (Idaho Mountain Express)