Cade Bradley Hunzeker, DDS

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Cade Hunzeker, a beloved Husband and Father. He was a great Friend to many and a respected figure in the dental community. The lives of his family, friends, colleagues, and patients changed forever on September 02, 2023. Dr. Cade, as he was affectionately known by many, leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and service that will forever be remembered. Dr. Cade was a Nebraska native, hailing from Columbus, Nebraska, where he spent his early years and graduated from Columbus High School. After completing his high school education, he embarked on his academic journey at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Following his successful undergraduate studies, he gained admission to Harvard but ultimately chose to pursue his academic career closer to home at the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry. His dedication and exceptional achievements in dental school were highlighted in 1999 when, as a senior, he received the prestigious Omicron Kappa Upsilon Kramer Award of Excellence. This distinguished award recognized him for his outstanding scholastic record, unwavering character, promising potential in the field of dentistry, selfless service to humanity, and unwavering dedication. In 2000, he proudly graduated with High Distinction, marking the culmination of his exceptional academic journey. After completing his dental degree, Dr. Cade remained in Omaha, Nebraska, where he pursued specialized training in Pediatric Dentistry at The University of Nebraska Medical Center. During this period, he had the honor of serving as Chief Resident. Dr. Cade was renowned for his charismatic personality, laughter, and sharp wit. He was cherished by both his fellow classmates and professors alike. In 2002, Dr. Cade assumed dual roles as an Associate Professor of Pediatric Dentistry at UNMC and as the proprietor of his private practice, which remained at its current location. Balancing these demanding responsibilities showcased his remarkable dedication and admirable work ethic. By 2003, he transitioned to full-time Private Practice. Dr. Cade's professional achievements included earning the prestigious title of Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and maintaining privileges at Boys Town National Research Hospital and Children’s Hospital. Dr. Cade possessed a deep affection for his role as a Pediatric Dentist, particularly when caring for children with Special Healthcare needs. His mission was to establish meaningful connections with every child under his care. Over time, he found immense joy in what he affectionately referred to as his "Grand Patients", the children of parents who were once his patients. He considered this to be the highest form of compliment. Throughout his career, Dr. Cade was unwavering in his commitment to providing dental care to underserved children, through international humanitarian efforts in Honduras. His dedication and tireless efforts culminated in his board certification by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry in 2021. He liked to say that he was “board certified, and kid approved!” His patients often referred to him as a magician when he would mysteriously pull coins from behind their ears. After living in several small towns in Nebraska, Cade’s parents, Douglas and Nancy, settled in Columbus, NE, where he was raised alongside his siblings Chad, Corey and Cari, attending North Park Elementary, Columbus Jr High and High School. Throughout his school years, he played soccer, baseball and ran the hurdles in track where he once beat Scott Frost during a track meet (when Scott fell, and Cade finished). Cade’s pension for hard work started at a young age with his first job delivering newspapers. Cade and his beloved wife, Robbie-Jo, relished their life in Omaha, where they are raising six wonderful children: Kennedy, Aleya, Kole, Mora, Karson, and Kamden, and three fur babies: Carl, Winnie and Ruth. He was an avid hunter and enjoyed fishing, sharing that love with his children, teaching them all to hunt and fish right along side him. Through the years, you could often find him watching the Seahawks or the Royals with his daughter Aleya, cheering on his daughter Mora at her horse shows, coaching Kole and Karson in baseball, attending Kennedy’s show choir shows, or watching Karson and Kamden play football and basketball. Their favorite vacation spot as a family was Table Rock Lake, where they would spend their time boating and fishing. When at home, you could often find him swimming in the pool or manning his smoker in the backyard. Playing pranks on April Fools was an annual occurrence that Cade enjoyed, along with the irritation of his children. Cade and his wife Robbie-Jo shared a passion for traveling to "blue water" destinations including Bonaire, Key Largo, St Lucia, Cozumel and more. Scuba diving was a special activity that they enjoyed together and Cade reached the level of Master Diver. After becoming scuba certified, Cade volunteered at the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo where he would “swim with the sharks” Cade's untimely passing not only leaves a void in the dental profession but also in the hearts of his wife, children, family and friends. His legacy will continue to shine brightly, reflected in the smiles of all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Cade is preceded in death by his parents; Douglas and Nancy Hunzeker, special aunt; Shirley and special friend, Dave Walline. He is survived by wife; Robbie-Jo, children; Kennedy, Aleya, Kole, Mora, Karson, and Kamden, siblings; Chad Hunzeker, Cory Hunzeker (Jill), Cari Farmer (Brandon), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends. Visitation with family will be from 4:00 - 7:00pm Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023 at Reichmuth Funeral Home, Elkhorn, NE. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00am Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023 at St. Michael Lutheran Church (13232 Blondo Street, Omaha, NE. Memorials are suggested to the family for future designation.

Cade Bradley Hunzeker, DDS

July 8, 1974 - September 2, 2023