Dr. Peter “Painless” Schindelholz dedicated his life to providing compassionate, patient-centered dental care and serving others. Read about his remarkable legacy and lasting impact on his community.
By Genni Burkhart
It's with great respect and deep sadness that we share the passing of Dr. Peter “Painless” Schindelholz, a dedicated member of DOCS Education and a proud advocate for safe dental sedation. Dr. Schindelholz passed away on July 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
For more than 45 years, Dr. Schindelholz built a thriving practice in Land O’ Lakes, Wisconsin. Known for his gentle touch and commitment to patient comfort, he earned the nickname “Painless” from generations of grateful patients. His log cabin practice, built in 1992, was designed to feel warm and welcoming, reflecting his belief that dentistry should take place in a caring, home-like setting.
In 2014, his daughter, Dr. Laura Goll, joined him in practice, carrying on her father’s philosophy of compassionate, lasting dentistry. She continues this legacy by serving their close-knit community at the practice she shared with her father, Schindelholz Dental.
Family, Service, and Community
"Painless" Pete J. Schindelholz, DDS and his daughter, Laura M. Goll, DDS
Dr. Schindelholz was more than a skilled dentist. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Diane, and a proud father to Paula, a Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Laura, who followed him into dentistry. His love for his four grandsons was evident in the time he spent sharing his passions for skiing, fishing, biking, wood carving, and hunting, especially pheasant hunting with his dog.
Family was at the center of Dr. Schindelholz's life, and he found immense joy in seeing it grow.
His service extended far beyond the walls of his practice. When approached about contributing to dental care for the people of Fond Jean Noel, Haiti, Dr. Schindelholz went beyond financial support with 2000 sMiles Apart. He personally established and operated a free dental clinic there for twenty years, providing critical dental care to those in need.
Closer to home, Dr. Schindelholz gave his time and energy generously to his community. In 1981, he began organizing the annual Land O' Lakes fireworks display, a tradition he maintained for more than four decades. This beloved event brought families together year after year and became a signature celebration of the area. He also served in leadership roles with the Land O' Lakes Lions Club and the Vilas County Chamber of Commerce, demonstrating his commitment to improving the lives of those around him.
Lifelong Learner
Dr. Schindelholz was also passionate about lifelong learning. His curiosity and dedication to his craft led him to advanced studies at the Dawson Center for Advancement of Dentistry and the Pankey Institute. He developed expertise in comprehensive care and orofacial pain, including TMJ treatment, always striving to provide care that would last a lifetime. His work in sedation dentistry reflected his belief that dental visits should be safe, comfortable, and free of fear, a commitment that earned the admiration of colleagues and trust of patients.
Throughout his life, Dr. Schindelholz approached each day with energy, creativity, and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a profound void not only in his family and community but also within the dental profession. His legacy of service, kindness, and excellence will continue through the lives he touched, the traditions he began, and the countless patients whose lives were improved by his care.
The entire staff at DOCS Education extends our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and patients.
Dr. Schindelholz's example will continue to inspire all who knew him and who strive to follow his path of compassion and integrity.
Author: With over 15 years as a published journalist, editor, and writer, Genni Burkhart's career has spanned politics, healthcare, law, business finance, technology, and news. She resides in Northern Colorado, where she works as the editor-in-chief of the Incisor at DOCS Education.
