Winkler Dental Clinic

Staff

Dr. Samantha Klassen

Owner/Dentist

Samantha Klassen

Dr. Samantha Klassen graduated from the University of Manitoba receiving her Bachelor of Science, Microbiology Major in 1995 and her Doctor of Medical Dentistry in 1999.

During her years of University she received several awards including: Dr. William Bloom Prize for highest overall average in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Joseph Freeman Memorial Prize for highest standing in Oral Surgery, Dr. M.H. Garvin Prize in Periodontology and the Dr. Jack King Memorial Scholarship for highest standing in Periodontology, Oral Diagnosis and Radiology.

Dr. Klassen is committed to providing quality dentistry in a caring and compassionate manner. She places a high priority on continuing education to stay current with all of the latest advances in dentistry. Dr. Klassen enjoys all aspects of general dentistry with a special emphasis on orthodontics. Dr. Klassen has hospital priviledges and is able to provide hospital based dental care with general anaesthesia for children and special needs individuals. When not at work Dr. Klassen enjoys travelling, reading, cooking and spending time with her husband and two children.


Dr. Jenna Yusishen

Dentist

Jenna Yusishen

Dr. Yusishen grew up in St. Andrews, Manitoba. She studied biochemistry at the University of Winnipeg before graduating from the University of Manitoba with her Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011.

Upon graduation, Dr. Yusishen moved to British Columbia where she worked both in a private practice clinic and was also a clinical instructor at Vancouver Island University.

In May 2012 Dr. Yusishen moved back home to Manitoba and has been practicing at Winkler Dental Clinic since.

Jenna takes pride in providing individualized, quality and empathetic care to each of her patients. She is known for her warm and outgoing personality and was recognized with the Dr. Francis Matiowsky Memorial Award in 2011, which is awarded for a senior dental student with an outstanding concern for patients.

In her spare time Dr. Yusishen enjoys travelling, spending time at the lake, camping and enjoying time with her family, friends and dog Kacie.


Dr. Russel Anderes

Dentist

Russel Anderes

Dr. Russel Anderes completed his Bachelor of Science in Microbiology before entering the University of Manitoba Doctor of Dental Medicine program in 2009. While attending university Dr. Anderes spent his summers working in his family’s industrial mechanic shop. In 2013, Dr. Anderes spent nine months flying to remote northern communities providing dental care. Having an extended interest in oral surgery coming out of university, these northern excursions provided exceptional experience in this field of dentistry.

When not working, Dr. Anderes enjoys playing all kinds of sports and working out. When not playing sports, Russel enjoys spending time with his fiancé, fellow dentist Dr. Lucy Yan. Together they enjoy teaching tricks to their dog, Chopstix. Growing up around Falcon Lake, Russel still finds time to spend some weekends at the cabin, enjoying hours of fishing and spending time with his family. His calm demeanor and laidback personality have proven to be tremendous assets in putting his patients at ease. Enjoying all aspects of dentistry, Dr. Anderes is frequently looking to continue his education and grow as a dental professional.


Dr. Philipp Unruh

Dentist

Philipp Unruh

Dr. Philipp Unruh grew up in Winkler, Manitoba and is a graduate of Garden Valley Collegiate. He studied Chemistry at the University of Manitoba before Graduating with his Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2015. Dr. Unruh is fluent in English and High German.

Dr. Unruh has called Winkler home since 1999. He is a loved husband and a blessed father of 3 precious children. Dr. Unruh and his wife Melissa appreciate the family values that Winkler offers.

Dr. Unruh has and continues to be involved in the local community. Whether it is coaching, refereeing or playing; Dr. Unruh has been involved at varying levels of local soccer for over 15 years. Dr. Unruh also has a passion for giving back to local education. He was a founding member of the Gordon Wiebe Scholarship Fund. Dr. Unruh proudly served on the board for 6 years.

When Dr. Unruh is not working, he likes to spend time with his family and friends. He also takes pleasure in spending time outdoors whenever possible. Dr. Unruh enjoys seeing familiar faces around town and is looking forward to serving his community however he can.


Dr. Noelle Verry

Dentist

Dr. Noelle Verry

Dr. Noelle Verry grew up in Winnipeg and attended the University of Manitoba where she studied Microbiology before graduating with her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree.

Throughout her time in dental school, Dr. Verry was involved in many extracurricular activities such as being the Director of Programming on the Manitoba Dental Students Association, and is currently involved with the University of Manitoba Dental Alumnae Association. She was also able to offer mentorship to the first year students during her final year of study.

Dr. Verry loves getting to know her patients so she can provide them with the best individualized care. She is known for her kind, calm and outgoing personality and loves all aspects of dentistry.

In her spare time, she loves to spend time with her friends and family, especially with her 2 year old niece, Olivia. Her hobbies include staying active by playing soccer with her friends, playing golf and travelling. She is also kept busy with her two American Eskimo dogs, Cooper and Chloe.

Dr. Verry also makes it a priority to stay up to date with the latest dental techniques and technologies through continuing education courses. She is very excited to begin work in Winkler and hopes to explore the town and all it offers.


Dr. Armaan Kaur

Dentist

Dr. Armaan Kaur

Dr. Armaan Kaur received her Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology before earning her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Manitoba.

Dedicated to creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Dr. Armaan is passionate about ensuring her patients feel comfortable and well-informed. She places a strong emphasis on patient education, encouraging open dialogue and addressing any questions related to dental treatments. Dr. Armaan values building long lasting and trusting relationships with her patients.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Armaan finds joy in exploring the outdoors through activities such as hiking, kayaking, and canoeing with loved ones. She also enjoys traveling and trying new foods locally, along with reading and cooking in her free time.


Kristen Rempel

Office Manager

Kristen Rempel

Kris has been a part of the Winkler Dental Clinic team since 2005. She began her career as a dental receptionist and attended Red River College to complete her Phase II Dental Assisting Diploma in 2008. She went back to school in 2012 to complete the Orthodontic Module. Her current role is that of Office Manager, she oversees office operations and ensures that patients and their families have a wonderful experience at Winkler Dental Clinic. She feels very blessed to be able to lead such an incredible staff!

Kris grew up in Winkler and has a real passion for the people of this community. Over the years she had the opportunity to do many dental health presentations in schools and daycares, teaching children about dental health. She also enjoys attending continuing education courses and seminars to keep growing in knowledge.

When Kris is not at work she loves spending time with her family at sporting events and travelling. Most of their time in winter is spent at the rink watching hockey and in summer they love spending time at the pool, on the lake and at the golf course.


Nyomi Sawatzky

Treatment Coordinator

Nyomi Sawatzky

Nyomi joined the Winkler Dental team in January 2015 as Treatment Coordinator. She brings with her many years of experience in the dental office. She looks forward to meeting the patients of Winkler Dental Clinic and working with them in achieving their treatment plan needs.

Nyomi and her husband Rick live in Morden and have two awesome sons Riley and Cole. She enjoys camping, travelling, walking with her furry friend Ranger, cooking and entertaining friends and family around the backyard pool.


Carmen Wheeler

Dental Hygienist

Carmen Wheeler

After graduating from the University Of Manitoba School Of Dental Hygiene in 1991, Carmen moved to the Morden/Winkler area and began practicing dental hygiene. She joined the Winkler Dental Clinic team in 2010. She is an active member of the CDHM and CDHA. Carmen brings extensive clinical experience to the practice and has a keen interest in her patients.

Carmen lives in Morden with her husband. They have 2 children and love to spend time outdoors on the lake near the Whiteshell where Carmen grew up.


Colleen Flook

Dental Hygienist

Colleen Flook

Colleen graduated from the University Of Manitoba School Of Dental Hygiene in 2002 and joined the Winkler Dental Clinic in February 2008. She is an active member of the CDHA and CDHM.

Colleen was born and raised in Winnipeg but loves living in the Pembina Valley.

She enjoys yoga classes, watching comedies and chick flicks and spending time with her growing family.


Shelley Froese

Dental Hygienist

Shelley Froese

Shelley Froese is a Registered Dental Hygienist. She graduated from the University of Manitoba School of Dental Hygiene in 2006 with her certificates in Orthodontics and Local Anesthetic. After graduation, she moved back to Winkler and has been working at the Winkler Dental Clinic since June 2006. She enjoys being able to serve family, friends, and new acquaintances in her community.

Shelley is registered with the College of Dental Hygienists of Manitoba and a member of the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association.

She enjoys spending time with her husband Randy and daughter Isabella.


Chelsea Robidoux

Dental Hygienist

Chelsea Robidoux

Chelsea graduated from the University of Manitoba School of Dental Hygiene in 2012. After graduation Chelsea moved to Carman and has worked in the Pembina Valley ever since.

Chelsea joined the Winkler Dental Clinic team in March of 2015. She is registered with the CDHM and is a member of the CDHA. Chelsea remains current with the latest research by participating in continuing education courses.

When not at work Chelsea enjoys travelling, spending time with friends and family, baking and playing sports.


Jennifer Gates

Dental Hygienist

Jennifer Gates

Jennifer is a long time rural Manitoba resident. She graduated with a Diploma in Dental Hygiene from the University of Manitoba in 2001. Having completed her National Dental Hygiene Board exam, she began to work at private practice in Winnipeg. About a year later, she came to Winkler Dental Clinic and has been here ever since. Jennifer brings along extended practice in orthodontics and local anesthetic. She is an active member of the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association and is licensed under the College of Dental Hygienists of Manitoba. She has remained dedicated over the years in participating in various continuing education courses and seminars to stay current with the latest research and trends in dental hygiene.

When Jennifer is not working, she and her husband together enjoy quality time with their son and daughter.


Karlene Harder

Dental Hygienist

Karlene Harder

Karlene brings with her almost 20 years of dental hygiene experience. After graduating from the University of Manitoba in 2001, she began her career in Winnipeg, later Brandon, and came back to her hometown area, Southern Manitoba, in 2011. Karlene is licensed to the College of Dental Hygienists of Manitoba. She strives to bring a positive patient experience through a caring and personalized approach to dental hygiene care.

Karlene lives in Morden with her husband, James, and three kids, Jakob, Jaynee and Ellie. She enjoys road-tripping and camping with her family. She considers herself a bit of a foodie and likes to craft. She loves serving the community through her church, workplace and local events.


Katie Remier

Dental Hygienist

Katie Remier

Katie grew up in Southern Ontario and graduated from Niagara College with a Diploma of Dental Hygiene in 2009. She is an active member of the CDHM and CDHA.

Katie moved to the Morden/Winkler area in 2010 to join the Winkler Dental Clinic and began her career in Dental Hygiene. Shortly after, she acquired her Orthodontic and Local Anesthetic modules to add to her clinical skills. She stays current with continuing dental education through courses each year.

Katie and her family relocated to Saskatoon for the past two years where she had the opportunity to work in Periodontics and gain increased skills in deep scaling and anesthetics.

Katie now lives in Morden with her husband and three children and enjoys spending most of their time outdoors - camping, golfing, and hunting for new parks!


Hailey Buhler

Dental Hygienist

Hailey Buhler

Hailey grew up in southern Manitoba. She graduated with a Diploma in Dental Hygiene from Dalhousie University in 2024. After finishing school, Hailey started her career working at Winkler Dental Clinic. She is registered with the CDHM and is an active member of the CDHA. Hailey stays current in the latest research by participating in continuing education courses. When not at work, Hailey enjoys spending time with friends and family, travelling, and coaching softball.


Kiana Friesen

Dental Hygienist

Kiana Friesen

Kiana grew up in Altona, Manitoba and graduated from the University of Manitoba School of Dental Hygiene, and joined the Winkler Dental Clinic in July, 2024. She began her career in Kenora, Ontario and has now come back to her hometown area. Kiana is registered with the CDHM and a member of the CDHA. She is passionate about providing patient-centered care and always striving to continue learning through continuing education.

When she is not working, Kiana loves spending time with her friends and family. Her favorite hobbies include reading, going for walks, taking out her paddleboard, and travelling the world..


Jenilee Goertzen

Registered Dental Assistant

Jenilee Goertzen

Jenilee received her Phase II Dental Assisting Diploma from Red River College in June 2010. After one year of employment she returned to obtain her Orthodontic Module in 2011. Jenilee has worked at the Winkler Dental Clinic since June 2010.

When not at work Jenilee enjoys spending time with her husband and her two boys Grady and Beau. She also enjoys walking, biking and enjoying the outdoors.


Kayla Reimer

Registered Dental Assistant

Kayla Reimer

Kayla graduated from the Red River College Dental Assisting Program in June of 2011. Following graduation, Kayla along with other classmates travelled to Guatemala to assist in the practice of dentistry for those who are less fortunate. Kayla joined the Winkler Dental Clinic team in July of 2011. After one year of employment she returned to Red River College to obtain her Orthodontic Module in 2012.

When Kayla is not working you can find her curling, golfing or playing baseball. She enjoys spending time with friends, travelling and cooking.


Taylor Reimer

Registered Dental Assistant

Taylor Reimer

Taylor graduated from the Dental Assisting Program at Red River College in 2015 with the highest GPA and was awarded the “Academic Achievement Award”. She successfully completed her Orthodontic Module at Red River College in 2015 as well. The following summer she travelled to Guatemala along with fellow classmates and was introduced to the profession by assisting in providing dental care to the less fortunate.

One thing she loves about her job is getting to know each individual patient and caring for their needs in a unique and personal way.

When not working, Taylor enjoys being active, spending time with family and friends, and volunteering with teenage girls in the community.


Tiffany Fehr

Registered Dental Assistant

Tiffany Fehr

Tiffany graduated from the Red River College Dental Assisting Program and obtained her Orthodontic Module in June 2015.

After completing her practicum at the Winkler Dental Clinic, Tiffany joined the Winkler Dental Clinic team in July of 2015.

Tiffany had her heart set on becoming a dental assistant for many years prior to taking the program. She has a passion for helping others and enjoys getting to know the many valued patients of the Winkler Dental Clinic.

Outside of work, Tiffany enjoys travelling with her husband Dylan, dirt biking with her family and spending time with friends.


Lavonne Klassen

Registered Dental Assistant

Lavonne Klassen

Lavonne graduated from the Red River College Dental Assisting Program and successfully completed the Orthodontic Module in June 2015.

Lavonne joined the Winkler Dental Clinic team in August of 2015 and enjoys working with such a great team of dental professionals. Lavonne’s favorite part of her job in getting to know patients but also enjoys helping with Low German translation and the many other challenges and opportunities this career brings.

Lavonne enjoys life on the farm south of Morden with her husband Troy, two horses and their dog Sammy. In her spare time Lavonne enjoys riding her horses and travelling around Manitoba to compete in barrel racing competitions. Lavonne also likes helping out on the farm and spending weekends at the family cabin at Pelican Lake. In winter she enjoys a good game of outdoor hockey, snowboarding and spending time with family and friends.


Chantal Coulombe

Registered Dental Assistant

Chantal Coulombe

Chantal graduated from the Red River College Dental Assisting Program in 2012, and also completed her Orthodontic Module the same year. Following graduation, Chantal traveled to Guatemala to assist in the practice of dentistry for those who are less fortunate.

Chantal has been assisting since graduation and joined the Winkler Dental Clinic team in February of 2017.

When Chantal is not at work, she enjoys traveling, the outdoors and entertaining family and friends.


Beth Derksen

Registered Dental Assistant

Beth Watkins

Beth graduated with honors from the Red River College Dental Assisting Program in 2015. After graduation, Beth moved to Brandon, MB where she worked as a dental assistant for 3 years before returning home to Winkler. Upon her return, Beth joined the Winkler Dental Clinic team in January 2018.

When not at work, Beth enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoys golfing, playing volleyball and going to CrossFit.


Candace Huck

Registered Dental Assistant

Candace Huck

Candace completed her phase II Dental Assisting Diploma at Red River Community College in 2005 graduating with honours. Post graduation Candace worked at a dental practice in Winnipeg until joining the Winkler Dental Clinic in December 2007. Candace continued her education at Red River Community College completing her Orthodontic Module in 2007. She continues to expand her Dental Assisting knowledge by attending courses and seminars throughout the year. Candace continues to enjoy serving the Winkler community and surrounding area with friendly professional dental care.

When not at work Candace enjoys spending time with her husband Tyler and two children Allie and Ryder. Candace and her family enjoy the outdoors by spending time at the lake. Candace enjoys camping, being active and participating in numerous sports throughout the year.


Nicole Peters

Registered Dental Assistant

Nicole Peters

Nikki graduated from the Red River College Dental Assisting Program in 2009. She joined the Winkler Dental Clinic team in the fall of 2011 and successfully obtained her Orthodontic Module in June of 2012.

Nikki enjoys spending time with her husband Derek and two boys, Brody and Jace. Most of her time in winter is spent watching her boys play hockey at the rink. Nikki loves to be outdoors, to go camping with her family, play sports and enjoys reading a good book.


Kim Bergsma

Registered Dental Assistant

Kim Bergsma

Kim graduated from the Red River College Dental Assisting program and completed her Orthodontic Module in June of 2017. She started working at Winkler Dental Clinic in September that same year. Kim loves all aspects of her job and especially likes that each day is different and brings new challenges. She also loves being a part of an amazing team that ensures every dental visit is comfortable.

When she is not at work Kim enjoys reading, writing, playing guitar and spending time with family, friends and her dog Bentley.


Felicia Klassen

Registered Dental Assistant

Felicia Klassen

Felicia graduated from the Red River College Dental Assisting program in 2008. She then returned and completed her Orthodontic Module in June of 2011. She has been a part of the Winkler Dental Clinic team since 2010. Her favorite part of working in the dental field is being able to help others and working on a team in a fun, fast paced environment .

When not at work she’s busy with her two sons and loves to be outside. She enjoys spending time with friends, exploring new places and trying new food.


Yolanda Friesen

Registered Dental Assistant

Yolanda Friesen

Yolanda graduated from the Red River College Dental Assisting Program in June 2019 with Honours. She also completed her Orthodontic Module in 2019. Following graduation, Yolanda moved back to Winker to begin her career as a Dental Assistant.

When Yolanda is not at work she enjoys going for long walks, being outdoors, travelling and volunteering with Children’s ministries.


Samara Peters

Registered Dental Assistant

Samara Peters

Samara graduated from the CDI College Dental Assisting Program in September of 2023.

She completed her practicum at the Winkler Dental Clinic, and was hired as a receptionist shortly after.

When Samara is not at work, she enjoys skating, camping with a good book, and spending time with family and friends.


Michelle Kreker

Registered Dental Assistant

Michelle Kreker

Michelle joined the Winkler Dental Clinic team in July 2022. She has really enjoyed learning many new things in Dentistry. Michelle has always been interested in the dental field and plans to further her education and become a Registered Dental Assistant in the future.

When she isn’t at work she enjoys going out with friends, spending time with family, camping, and travelling.


Cátia Hartelt

Sterilization Assistant

Cátia Hartelt

Cátia was born and raised in southern Brazil and immigrated to Canada with her family 3 years ago. She has 26 years of experience as a Dental Assistant. She has worked in areas serving children and adults with cleft palate, mental disabilities and the wider community. Catia is also a skilled baker and soap designer. In her spare time she makes crafts in her studio, cooks with her daughter and husband and also has fun times with her pets Luna and Nestor. Cátia is happy to be part of the Winkler Dental Team.


Diane Rempel

Dental Receptionist

Diane Rempel

Diane joined the Winkler Dental Clinic team in September of 2015 and is enjoying working with the great staff.

Diane grew up in the country north of Winkler and enjoys spending time outside, biking or going for walks. She also enjoys reading, travelling and spending time with friends.


Mélanie Yaschyshyn

Dental Receptionist

Mélanie Yaschyshyn

Mélanie graduated from Collège Boréal in Sudbury, Ontario in 1998 and made the move to Manitoba in 1999. She was very excited to join the Winkler Dental Clinic team in May of 2014. She is a member of the CDHM and CDHA. Mélanie brings over 10 years of experience as a Registered Dental Hygienist to the Winkler Dental Clinic.

Mélanie lives in Morden with her husband, 2 sons and 1 daughter. She spends most of her free time at the hockey rink, baseball diamond and soccer field. Seeing her family happy and spending quality time with them is the most rewarding gift of all. She also enjoys a good round of golf.


Quinn Haney

Dental Receptionist

Quinn Haney

Quinn graduated from Northlands Parkway Collegiate in June 2022, and shortly after, joined the Winkler Dental Clinic team. She enjoys many aspects of her job, but finds communicating with others to be the best. She loves to make sure patients are greeted happily when they walk in. She is looking forward to continuing her learning through work.

Quinn likes to keep herself busy by spending time with friends, going out to eat, and appreciates a good movie!


Jessica Bueckert

Dental Receptionist

Jessica Bueckert

Jessica's post-secondary education involved a stint in Australia (YWAM), playing volleyball for Providence University, and then graduating with an arts degree from U of M. She is grateful to have joined the Winkler Dental Clinic team in September of 2023.

Jessica lives in Schanzenfeld with her husband, son, 4 step kids, and dog, Nala. She enjoys music, sports, and traveling, and has more recently discovered the joy of gardening.

Jessica is a passionate human who doesn’t do anything half-hearted! She’s always up for adventure and fun. She is so very happy to be a part of the wonderful, warm, positive work culture of WDC!


Carole Hiebert

Dental Receptionist

Carole Hiebert

Carole’s first position as a dental assistant began right here, at the Winkler Dental Clinic, in 1999. After moving into an administrative role several years later, she spent nearly 20 years in orthodontic practice. She’s happy to be back at WDC with so many friends and familiar faces - staff and patients alike!

Her biggest joy has come from raising her two boys, Brady and Nate, with her husband. Road trips and lake life have been big parts of their summer fun.