Celebrating 55 years of service: honouring Dr. Richard Gehrke’s lifelong commitment to chiropractic

For 55 years, Dr. Richard Gehrke has dedicated his life to chiropractic care, serving patients with purpose, compassion, and deep gratitude. His journey reflects not only longevity but a profound commitment to his profession and community.

When Dr. Gehrke began practicing, chiropractic was still fighting for acceptance. Medical referrals were rare, and skepticism was common. He’s proud to have witnessed, and contributed to, the profession’s growth into a respected part of mainstream healthcare. Today, he values the collaboration between allied health providers, something he once could only hope for.

Dr. Gehrke studied at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, alongside his good friend, Dr. Glenn Chidlow. The two returned to Alberta after graduation and began practicing in Red Deer. Early mentorship and shared experience helped lay the foundation for a meaningful and enduring career.

A farmer’s son with minimal exposure to chiropractic, Dr. Gehrke discovered its true impact through practice. Over time, he came to deeply appreciate how hands-on and patient-centred the work is. Each day in the clinic brought him satisfaction and for 55 years, that feeling never faded.

His influence extended beyond patients to his family. His late daughter, Dr. Tanis Gehrke, followed him into the profession, and today his granddaughter practices alongside him. One of his proudest accomplishments was building Mountain Chiropractic and Partners in Health in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, a dream shared with Tanis and his wife Jan. Though Tanis passed away shortly after they opened, Dr. Gehrke is grateful for the time they shared in the clinic they built together.

Dr. Gehrke remains deeply thankful for the patients who trust him, the colleagues who support him, and the family who stand beside him. His dedication has touched lives, inspired generations, and shaped the future of chiropractic in Alberta and beyond.

Congratulations, Dr. Gehrke, on 55 incredible years. Your legacy continues to inspire and uplift everyone around you.