Russell Kittleson, D.D.S., who was instrumental in starting the orthodontics program at Marquette University School of Dentistry and spent 65 years as an adjunct professor, died Thursday, Nov. 5.
A 1958 graduate of Marquette Dental School, Kittleson founded Kittleson Orthodontics in Mequon, Wisconsin, with his brother, Nate, a fellow Marquette graduate. Russell began teaching part-time at Marquette’s School of Dentistry in 1960; two years later, the school established the graduate orthodontics program. Kittleson retired from the profession in 2025.
Kittleson was distinguished in his field and earned many accolades throughout his career. He was a fellow of both the prestigious Pierre Fauchard Academy and the American College of Dentists. In 1991, he was recognized by the Wisconsin Society of Orthodontists with a special service award. In 2005, Kittleson received the Earl E. Shepard Distinguished Service Award from the Midwestern Society of Orthodontists, the highest honor given by that organization. Over the years, he served as president of the Wisconsin Society of Orthodontists, the Marquette University Dental Alumni Association and the Midwest Component of the Edward H. Angle Society of Orthodontists.
He was recognized numerous times by Marquette, including the Distinguished Alumnus in Dentistry Award in 1997, the School of Dentistry’s Part-Time Faculty Excellence in Teaching Award in 2006, and a special dedication from the orthodontics department in 2000 for his contributions to the program. Additionally, the Russell Kittleson Endowed Professorship in Orthodontics was established in his name.
Russell is survived by his wife, Jean, their three sons, including John, Dent ’94, Grad ’96, who is an adjunct associate professor of orthodontics at Marquette and maintains the practice his father co-founded, and five grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for consideration of a donation to the School of Dentistry in memory of Russell Kittleson to the Russell Kittleson Endowed Professorship in Orthodontics. Donations may be made here.
