About Us
Our mission is to help our patients achieve optimal dental health. Each member of our staff plays an important role to make sure this happens for valued patients like you every day.
The River Park Dental Team (from left to right):
Chris Pape, Melissa Dietrich, RDH, Gary Pape, DDS, Amber Miller, Jill Lyon, CDA
Dr. Gary Pape
Dr. Pape has been practicing dentistry for 18 years. He is currently an active student of the Academy of General Dentistry mastership program.
Dr. Pape's unique life experiences and educational background have lead to a specialized concentration on building caring, patient-centered relationships. Before graduating from Northwestern University’s School of Dentistry, he earned his master’s degree in clinical psychology from Roosevelt University. Upon graduating from NWU, Dr. Pape worked as an assistant professor at Northwestern, teaching dental courses focused on understanding and alleviating dental anxiety and developing supportive patient-focused care.
Dr. Pape and his family moved to Wenatchee in 1996 where he eventually opened his current practice at the River Park Center. This serene location represents his values of combining dental health with overall personal health.
When Dr. Pape is away from his office, he enjoys hiking, exercising and reading.
Chris Pape – Business Manager
Chris joined Dr. Pape’s team in January 2008. He received his business degree from Indiana University in 2002 and hopes to incorporate the knowledge he’s gained from his marketing background and real-world experience into the family business.
When Chris is away from the office, he enjoys working out, camping and playing tennis.
Melissa Dietrich – Dental Hygienist
Melissa has worked as a dental hygienist for 9 years. After receiving her BS from Eastern Washington University, Melissa moved to Chelan where she currently resides. At Dr. Pape’s office, she most enjoys developing relationships with patients and staying up-to-date with the latest dental research.
When she’s away from the office, Melissa enjoys camping, racing, snow skiing, family photos and book clubs. She and her husband have one daughter.
Jill Lyon – Dental Assistant
Jill has worked as a dental assistant for 12 years. She enjoys assisting Dr. Pape in building beautiful smiles and admiring the riverfront scenery just outside the office windows.
When she’s away from the office, Jill enjoys running, working out and spending time with her 2 children.
Amber Miller – Dental Assistant
Amber has worked as a Dental Assistant for 5 years. Originally from Wenatchee, Amber went on to study at Spokane Community College. Her passion for dentistry is fueled by her happy patients. When she hears patients say they've been able to smile in photos for the first time, she falls in love with what she does all over again.
When she’s away from the office, Amber enjoys working on home improvement projects and spending time with friends. She and her husband have 2 children.