History As The Marshall Clinic
For 100 years, the Marshall Clinic has cared for generations with integrity, skill, and heart.
Founded in 1925, it grew into a legacy spanning three generations.
Today, that legacy lives on as Wholehearted Dental.
1925 - 2025
A Century of Care
Wholehearted Dental began its journey as The Marshall Clinic. Founded in 1925, the clinic became a trusted place for families across generations. Over the years, three generations of Marshalls carried forward a tradition of dentistry rooted in clinical excellence, genuine relationships, and care that put patients first.
In 2025, as The Marshall Clinic celebrates its 100th year, the practice transitions into Wholehearted Dental. The new name reflects both continuity and renewal—an evolution guided by the same values that defined the Marshall family’s legacy: gentle hands, caring hearts, and a commitment to dentistry that stands the test of time.
Putting Down Roots
Our story began with a simple goal: to care for people well. In 1923, after graduating from the North Pacific School of Dentistry, Dr. Leslie Frederick (“Les”) Marshall returned to Vancouver with a vision of creating a dental practice where relationships mattered as much as results. Two years later, in August 1925, he opened his first practice near Laurel Street and Broadway — welcoming patients not just as clients, but as friends and neighbours. As his practice grew, in 1926, Les built a 5-room office at 876 West Broadway. By 1946, he had expanded it to include four operatories, a laboratory, a private office, a waiting room, and a basement lab.
Patients fondly remembered Dr. Les for his congenial nature—at 4 o’clock each day, he would pause work and invite colleagues and patients alike for “tea time” in his office. Even as his health declined, his kindness left an enduring impression on the community he served until his retirement in 1971.
Following Great Footsteps
Both of Les’ sons went on to shape dentistry in their own ways. In 1949, Les’ eldest son, Dr. Frederick James (“Jim”) Marshall, joined the practice after graduating from the University of Oregon Dental School. His younger son, Dr. Donald Gordon (“Don”) Marshall, followed in 1954. Together, they built on their father’s foundation, serving generations of families and expanding the clinic’s capabilities. In 1957, Jim left to pursue specialty training in endodontics, eventually leading the Oral Health Sciences department at the Oregon Health & Science University.
In November 1969, Don partnered with Dr. Robert E.D. (“Bob”) Munn to open a nine-operatory clinic at 4383 West 10th Avenue. The new facility allowed the team to deliver more comprehensive care while continuing their patient-first philosophy. Les retired in the spring of 1971 and passed away later that year, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and service.
A new chapter began In 1985, when Bob retired and sold his share to Dr. Jim Jameson. Together, Jim and Don continued the work Les had started.
When Don’s son Dr William Bruce (“Bruce”) Marshall graduated from UBC Dentistry in 1992, he joined his father as an associate. In 1996, Bruce purchased the practice, and the roles reversed: Don continued on as Bruce’s associate until his retirement at age 75—after 52 years of dedicated practice. Their father-son partnership was marked by mutual respect and an unwavering commitment to patient care.
Growing for the Future
Bruce carried forward his family’s legacy by formally establishing The Marshall Clinic and guiding its evolution into a center for comprehensive dentistry focused on long-term health and patient trust. Through clear communication, calm presence, and a deep commitment to continual learning, Bruce shaped not only countless smiles—but also the spirit and values that continue to guide the practice today.
In 2015, he welcomed Dr. Matthew Choi as an associate. The two quickly developed a strong bond—Bruce offering mentorship and wisdom, and Matthew bringing fresh energy and a shared vision for patient-centred dentistry.
Their partnership, officially formed in 2018, continued the spirit of generational continuity: a practice rooted in tradition yet open to growth and innovation. In August 2024, Matthew stepped into full ownership of the practice, while Bruce continued his dedicated care for patients as part of the team.
A Legacy Continued
Now, in 2025, as Wholehearted Dental, the practice carries forward the Marshall Clinic’s 100-year legacy with a renewed mission: to blend advanced technology with compassionate care. While the name has changed, the heart of the practice remains the same—gentle hands, caring hearts, and exceptional dentistry for generations to come.