Past and present AAO leaders were saddened to learn of the death of Dr. James “Jim” Gjerset Sr., who served as AAO president in 2002-03. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 88 on October 28, 2025.
Dr. Gjerset joined the orthodontic specialty after completing dental school and the orthodontic residency program at the University of Minnesota. Prior to enrolling at the university for his undergraduate degree, he served as a Sergeant and Squad Leader in the U.S. Marines and as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy.
Accompanied by his wife, LuAnne, Dr. Gjerset moved to Grand Forks, North Dakota to operate an orthodontic practice as the couple raised their four children, James (“Jens”) Gjerset Jr., Gretchen Matiatos, Heidi Lou Gjerset, and the late Andrea Lundeby.
Active in organized dentistry and orthodontics for much of his career, Dr. Gjerset was president of the North Dakota Dental Association, the North Dakota Society of Orthodontists and the Midwestern Society of Orthodontists before entering AAO leadership as a member of the Board of Trustees. A champion of international exchange within the specialty, he was a member of the World Federation of Orthodontists.
In Grand Forks, Dr. Gjerset was active in the Chamber of Commerce, the Grand Forks Symphony Association, the Grand Forks United Way and the North Dakota State Health Council. An avid skier, Dr. Gjerset taught his four children and some of his eight grandchildren how to ski.
The Gjerset family plans to hold a private memorial service. Memorial donations in Dr. Gjerset’s name may be made to Semper Fi & America’s Fund. To post a tribute, visit Ramsey Funeral Home.
