Vincent Monroe Hollaren, a cornerstone of the Rochester medical community and a veteran of the Vietnam War, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026, at Rochester Methodist Hospital. He was 83 years old. His wife, Dorothy “Dee” Hollaren, was by his side at the time of his passing.
A dedicated practitioner who spent nearly four decades serving the oral health needs of Southeast Minnesota, Vincent M. Hollaren leaves behind a legacy defined by professional excellence and a deep-seated commitment to civic duty. From his early days as an Army dentist to his role as a mentor for the next generation of dental hygienists, Hollaren’s life was a study in service to others.
Born on August 2, 1942, in Worthington, Minnesota, to Vincent and Hazel (Whipkey) Hollaren, he developed a drive for academic and professional achievement early in life. After graduating from Worthington High School in 1960, he pursued a doctorate in dental surgery at the University of Minnesota Dental School, earning his degree in 1966.
Military Service and the Vietnam Era
Immediately following his graduation, Hollaren entered the United States Army. His service began in Georgia before he was deployed as an Army dentist during the Vietnam War. This period of his life established a pattern of resilience and adaptability, applying specialized medical skills in high-pressure, overseas environments.
Upon his honorable discharge, Hollaren returned to Minnesota and settled in Rochester. He began his civilian career by collaborating with local practitioners Dr. Rossi and Dr. Sahs, integrating himself into the city’s healthcare fabric before venturing into private ownership.
Building a Professional Legacy in Rochester
The trajectory of Hollaren’s career shifted significantly in June 1971. In a collaborative effort with three colleagues, he helped establish the Valhalla Dentistry Building. This facility served as the headquarters for his private dental practice, where he would remain a fixture of the community until his retirement in 2010.
As a physician and medical writer, I recognize that the longevity of a private practice—spanning nearly 40 years in a single location—is a testament to more than just clinical skill. it reflects a profound level of patient trust and a commitment to longitudinal care. Hollaren did not merely treat patients; he managed the health of families across generations.
His professional contributions extended beyond the clinic walls. He served on the Review Board for the Northwest Dental Journal, contributing to the peer-review process that ensures the quality and accuracy of dental research and practice.
Timeline of Professional and Personal Milestones
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1960 | Graduated from Worthington High School |
| 1966 | Earned Doctorate of Dental Surgery (U of M) |
| 1969 | Married Dorothy “Dee” Yetman |
| 1971 | Co-founded Valhalla Dentistry Building |
| 2010 | Retired from private dental practice |
Civic Engagement and Community Stewardship
Hollaren’s influence in Rochester was not limited to dentistry. He believed in the fundamental importance of local institutions, serving as the President of the PTA at Rochester Jefferson School and maintaining an active membership at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.
Perhaps his most impactful altruistic work occurred in the quiet corridors of local nursing homes. Hollaren volunteered his time as a dental consultant, providing essential care and guidance for elderly residents who often face significant barriers to accessing oral healthcare. This intersection of dentistry and geriatric care is a critical, often overlooked component of public health, as oral hygiene is directly linked to systemic health outcomes in the elderly.
Even in retirement, his desire to educate persisted. He spent his later years volunteering with dental hygiene students at Rochester Vo-Tech College, bridging the gap between academic theory and clinical reality for students entering the field.
Personal Life and Passions
Beyond his professional accolades, Hollaren was a man of diverse interests and deep family ties. He and his wife, Dee, were married on October 4, 1969, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Hastings, Nebraska. Together, they built a life in Rochester and raised three children: Jenny, Mike, and Bart.
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In his leisure time, Hollaren sought the tranquility of nature and the joy of music. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed water skiing and golfing, often retreating to the family cabin in northwestern Wisconsin. He was also known for his love of playing the guitar and the simple pleasure of taking long walks with his dogs.
He is survived by his wife, Dee; his children, Jenny, Mike, and Bart (Cydne) Hollaren; and he is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Steve “Skip” Hollaren.
Service Arrangements and Memorials
A Memorial Mass to honor the life of Vincent M. Hollaren will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 10:30 AM at the Co-Cathedral of St. John The Evangelist in Rochester. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the Mass, with a reception to follow. A private burial will grab place at Calvary Cemetery in Rochester.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorials be directed to the new Minnesota State Veteran’s Home at Preston, MN, honoring Hollaren’s lifelong respect for those who served in the armed forces.
Note: This article provides information regarding dental and medical legacies for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.
The community is invited to share memories and offer online condolences through the Macken Funeral Home website. The upcoming memorial service marks the final official gathering to celebrate the life of a man who dedicated his existence to the health and well-being of his neighbors.
We invite you to share this story or leave your condolences in the comments below to honor the memory of Dr. Hollaren.
