Adrian Vande Merwe
January 14, 1959 - March 5, 2023
Adrian J. Vande Merwe was born January 14, 1959 in Bountiful, Utah. He attended Viewmont High School, the University of Utah and dental school at the University of the Pacific. He practiced dentistry in Bountiful for 36 years. He was a beloved dentist in Davis County because of his compassion, humor and honesty. He never tried to sell a service that was not needed and made many house-calls to relieve pain. His staff were treated like family. He had a brilliant mind and was an avid reader. He appreciated architecture, designing a “Frank Lloyd Wright” style home in Mueller Park Canyon and was also a gifted artist. When asked why he became a dentist rather than study art or architecture, he answered, “I liked helping people in their time of need.” Adrian married the love of his life, Jamie Swanson on March 11th 1995. Their daughter, Holland, was born in November of 1999. They loved traveling together. Adrian and Jamie rarely missed one of Holland’s volleyball matches or softball games, no matter where it was played. Adrian also enjoyed bicycling, sailing and hiking – although he could never keep up with Jamie (who can?). He was very generous, kind, compassionate, and 100% honest. He always advocated for those who faced discrimination and attended many Pride parades. Most of all, Adrian was an amazing husband and father. One of the highlights of his life was to be able to attend Holland’s wedding while fighting the most aggressive type of brain cancer, glioblastoma. Adrian is survived by his wife, Jamie, daughter, Holland, son-in-law, Ethan, Mother, Donna and siblings Joe (Kari), Audrey (Greg), Dave (Kim) and Rob (Liz) and his dog, Sullivan. He is preceded in death by his father, Joe and his in-laws, Hank and Doris Swanson, and many dogs. He passed away on March 5th 2023 at Creekside Senior Living, in the room next to his mother. In life and in death, Adrian was a family man! Please join us in a Celebration of Adrian’s life on Thursday, March 23, 2023 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East. Guests are encouraged to use the parking and entrance on the north side of the building.
A tribute video for Adrian will be available here soon. Please revisit this page to see photos from Adrian's family and hear messages from his loved ones.
In Loving Memory
Bless you all in this days
Dominique Rentiers
Mortsel, Be
My parents taught Adrian in Sunday School when he was 16 - 17. He was several years older than me but tmwhat I remember is that he was always kind. To his family I want to say that I know he will be missed and I'm so sorry for your loss. He has left a hole that will never really be filled. Prayers for you!
Toni Grover Kroll
Manhattan, KS
I'm one of those people who benefitted from Dr. Adrian's compassion. As a young guy coming out to the world was hard to do and finding support, especially in Bountiful, was not easy to find. Little did I know I would find that support from my childhood dentist and his team of compassionate people. He set the tone. He hired a staff of people who really cares about their patients. More than any other place. I'm grateful to this day for his love. I continued to come to him and brought my two kids because I knew it was a safe space. My condolences to his family and friends. I feel this loss with you.
Weston Clark
Salt Lake City, UT
We are so sorry that this happened. We would like to give our condolences. You and your family are in our prayers.
Nunzia and Eddie
Bountiful, Ut
Dr. Adrian and I met shortly after he opened his first office in Bountiful. He treated me and members of my family for many years. Even after we moved away, Adrian and I would see each other at Taco Time on occasion, and many times while I was covering the state champion Bountiful High volleyball team where his daughter Holland was playing for the champs. He was always very kind--a great dentist and a great friend. Mly condolences to Jamie, Holland and all his family. He will be missed. Rest well, my friend.
Tom Haraldsen
Salt Lake City, UT
Our deepest condolences for your wonderful family. Adrian taught me to laugh and often asked about the crazy "Eurika" family. He was a good man and I will never forget his call to my home in the evening to make sure I was okay after I had a panic attack in his chair. His love of life and people was felt. Our prayers are with your beautiful family. Till we meet again. ��❤️
Megan & Bryan Morris
Layton, UT
Dr. Adrian was our family dentist for many years. He was so kind and funny to my girls. I will truly miss having him take care of us. He always treated us like we were old friends and not just patients, I am sure we will never find this again. Many condolences to his family - he will be truly missed.
Kristie Suchar
North Salt Lake, UT