Jeffrey "Jeff" Allen Kent

It is with a broken heart and insurmountable sadness that I announce the passing of Dr. Jeffrey A. Kent, age 85. He died at Bethany St. Joseph Care Center on Friday, September 25th, at 11:30 am with a calm, peaceful, and silent surrender, with his wife of 50 years at his side. Jeff was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in September of 2024. This insidious disease comes with little to no mercy. Jeff made every attempt to overcome the perils of the cancer but knew he needed to follow God's plan

Jeff was born on May 31, 1941, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and spent his childhood there until mid-grade school when his parents moved to Bloomer, Wisconsin. He finished grade school and high school in Bloomer. He spent two years at Wisconsin State College-Eau Claire doing his Pre-Dental studies and then, in 1961, entered the University of Minnesota in the Dental Program and graduated with honors in 1965. Upon graduation, he moved to La Crosse and became an associate of Dr. Harry Marshall until entering his own private practice. Jeff, Dr. Gene Johnson, and Dr. Richard Hulse built their own building, and the three of them shared the space, each with their separate practices.

From 1983 to 1986, Jeff was very active in the La Crosse District Dental Society, serving first as Secretary, then vice president, and finally president. Jeff loved his chosen profession and was happy to provide for his patients.

On September 10, 1976, he married Mary Roesler, and together they have shared over 50 years. So many fun family get-togethers and great times with friends. Numerous vacations, including Hawaii, England, and countless trips to many of the Caribbean islands and Mexico. The highlight trip was in 2016 when Jeff and Mary spent time in Africa, to include 6 days and nights sleeping in tents on the open plains of the Serengeti, and also the hot air balloon ride. After 40 years of dedicated service to his patients, it was time to retire and become snowbirds, spending the winters in sunny Cape Coral, Florida. Oh, the many fun times with friends and great dinners in wonderful restaurants.

In his free time, Jeff enjoyed playing golf at all the local courses and was most proud of his hole-in-one at Drugans. Playing cards, hunting, and fishing were also high on his free time "to-do list." Many trips were made to Cresco, Iowa, and North and South Dakota, with "the boys" to hunt pheasant. Jeff was also a huge sports fan. The Brewers, Badgers, and of course, the Packers. Jeff was also a long-standing member of The American Legion and enjoyed many afternoons enjoying a good card game, especially on rainy days when golf was not an option.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Mary of 50 years; sister, Joanna Malone (Dave); brother, Thomas Kent (significant other, Donna Fiscus); sisters-in-law, Barbara J Quillin, and Betty Roesler; brothers-in-law, Bernard Roesler (Judi), and Patrick Roesler (Kathy). Along with many special nieces and nephews.

Jeff is preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Dolores Kent (Sleeter), and brothers-in-law Jerome (Jerry) Roesler and Larry Quillin.

Jeff and I would like to share a note of thanks and appreciation to Dr. Gil Harmon and the entire staff involved in Jeff's care during his time of need. The compassion and concern shown to Jeff as a patient and I as a wife was outstanding, above and beyond expectation. Navigating through this entire process was the most difficult task either one of us has ever had to endure, but having knowledgeable and experienced people seeing to our needs made it somewhat easier..... A heartfelt Thank You to each and every one of them.

For the last 50 years, Jeff has been my rock. He was always solid and grounded. Thought things through, never easily swayed by impulsive or passing trends. He was modest and generous in quiet ways that touched lives, but most people were never aware of this quality. He tried to treat everyone as an equal and with respect, never wanting to be the center of attention. Above all, he was always true, loyal, and dedicated to his God above and to me. He was a Very Good Man. Rest in peace, my dear. Until we meet again! Love you always- Mary.

A Funeral Service is scheduled to take place at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 8th, at Mary Mother of the Church Parish. Fr. Brian Konopa will be officiating. Visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Jeff will be laid to rest at Catholic Cemetery in La Crosse.

If you would like to leave a memorial in Jeff's name, please consider The Gundersen Foundation, The La Crosse Humane Society, or Mother Mary of the Church.