Dr. John H. Twist, D.D.S.

Dr. John H. Twist, D.D.S.

Of Lackawanna, at the age of 89, after a brief illness, on December 14th, 2025.

Son of the late Frank J., Sr. and Mary M. (nee O-Rourke) Twist.

Brother of the late Frank J., Jr. (late Rose Marie), James N., Thomas H. (Donna), Robert J. (late Charmaine), David D. (late Patricia) and Mary Katharine Twist.

Treasured uncle of Donna (Rodney) Parker, late Thomas (Kathy) Twist, David D. Twist, Jr., Barbara (Gregory) Hartman, Charles Twist, Charmaine (Mark) Hogan, James F. Twist, M.D.(Maureen), Margaret (Peter) Spadinger, Robert J. Twist, Jr. (Barbara), Christine (Andrew) Burke, Mary Ellen (Paul, D.D.S) Creighton, Brian (Sarah) Twist, Patricia (John) Graham, Clare J. Twist, M.D., Steven (Janelle) Twist, and Katharine (John) Burns.

Visitation Thursday, December 18th from 3 to 7 p.m. at NORMAN E. GANNON & SONS, Inc., FUNERAL HOME, 1075 Ridge Rd., Lackawanna (716-824-4000).

Friends are invited to join the family for The Mass of Christian Burial at OUR LADY OF VICTORY NATIONAL SHRINE & BASILICA Friday, December 18th at 10:00 AM.

The Funeral Mass will be "Live Streamed".  Please see link below.

Burial to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Dr. Twist practiced dentistry in Lackawanna for 35 years, was an active member and past president of the Eighth District Dental Society, and an active alumna of Canisius College and UB School of Dental Medicine.

His vast involvement at Our Lady of Victory Basilica included time as a Trustee, member of the Parish Finance Council, and tireless volunteer both at the Basilica and OLV Charities.

He was named honorary co-chair of the 2026 Centennial Anniversary Celebration.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorials to Our Lady of Victory National Shrine & Basilica, 767 Ridge Rd, Lackawanna, NY 14218. 

John H. Twist, D.D.S., beloved brother, uncle, great-uncle, and friend passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Known for his gentle spirit, quiet kindness and unwavering generosity, John left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

John graduated from Canisius College in 1957, completing three years of study before being accepted through an early-admission program to the University at Buffalo Dental School, where he earned his degree in 1961. Soon after, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Morocco. When he returned home, John built a respected private dental practice in Lackawanna, where he cared for generations of patients. He practiced dentistry the same way he lived his life—with patience, compassion, and genuine concern for others.

John was deeply committed to his profession and the people within it. An active member of the Eighth District Dental Society, he served as editor of the Eighth District Bulletin and as president of the Society in 1996. He took great pride in mentoring and supporting future dentists, and his dedication was honored through the establishment of the John H. Twist, DDS Scholarship at the University at Buffalo Dental School—an enduring reflection of his belief in education and service.

Faith was the foundation of John’s life. A daily communicant at Our Lady of Victory Basilica, he found meaning, comfort, and community within his church. Over the years, he served as a trustee of OLV Parish, a member of the Parish Financial Council, and a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. He volunteered on the Gardening Committee, supported multiple capital campaigns, and contributed generously to the life of the parish. John also served on the Centennial Committee celebrating the building of the Basilica and was recently named an Honorary Co-Chair for the upcoming 100th Anniversary of the Consecration of the Basilica in May 2026. Fellow parishioners will remember him as a gracious and gentle man who deeply loved Our Lady of Victory, Father Baker’s legacy, and the mission of caring for others. 

Outside of work and faith, John found joy in tradition, sports, and family. He was a devoted Buffalo Bills fan and proud season ticket holder, cheering loyally through every triumph and disappointment. His love for Canisius College never faded—he held basketball season tickets for more than 40 years and cherished the school that helped shape his life. Some of his happiest moments were spent hosting the annual Twist Family Fourth of July celebration at his cottage in Angola-on-the-Lake, a summer tradition filled with memories that his nieces and nephews treasured.

Above all, John will be remembered for the way he treated people—with humility, warmth, and sincere kindness. He listened without judgment, gave generously without expectation, and offered friendship freely. John’s legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through his faith, his service, and his quiet, steady goodness. He will be deeply missed and forever lovingly remembered.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.