Peder J. HANCHER, DDS

Dr. Peder J. HANCHER, DDS, 84, of Wellsville, NY passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 21, 2024 in his home surrounded by his loving family. He had suffered from Frontotemporal Dementia for the last four years. 

Born October 9, 1940 in Buffalo, NY, he was the son of James Herman and Eveleth Pedersen Hancher. 

A graduate of Holland Central School, he received his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Union College and his DDS from University of Buffalo. Through the years, he received seven more doctorate degrees from numerous universities. Peder operated a family dental practice in Wellsville for over 50 years. 

On January 10, 1976, in Wellsville, he married Bonnie Hallett, who survives. 

He was a dedicated dentist who provided professional dental care to Wellsville and the surrounding areas. He loved his work, his patients, and the incredible staff who worked for him. In 1978, Peder and his brother, Roger, started Fassett Lane Lumber. He was proud of being able to give back to his community. 

Surviving are: his wife, Bonnie E. Hallett; five children, Debra (Richard) Hancher of NC, Cynthia (John) Pepper of Balston Spa, Elizabeth Nelson of Ocean Isle, NC, Lawrence Eugene (Anna) Hallett of Millinocket, ME and Lauri Kristine (Donald) Drake of Wellsville; 11 grandchildren, Ryan, Regan, Daniel, Markessa, Olivia, Annalise, Corinne, Sarah, Lauren, C.J., and Allison; a great-grandchild on the way; nieces and nephews. 

He was predeceased by two brothers, Lee Hancher and Roger Hancher. 

Cremation was at OLNEY-FOUST Private Crematory. 

Burial will be in Whitesville Rural Cemetery. 

A gathering to celebrate Peder’s life will be held at a later date. 

Memorials may be made to Fisher House Foundation, Fishserhouse.org or the David A. Howe Library. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Cremation, Crowell Chapel, 296 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY. 

Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.