The communities of Burlington, Fort Madison, and Keokuk, Iowa, are mourning the passing of Dr. Daniel “Dan” Bruce Garrison, a respected board-certified orthodontist, devoted husband and father, United States Navy veteran, and longtime community volunteer. Dr. Garrison passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at the age of 47, leaving behind a legacy of compassionate healthcare, military service, and unwavering dedication to youth development.
As the founder and owner of River Ridge Orthodontics, Dr. Garrison earned the admiration of countless patients and colleagues throughout southeast Iowa. His commitment to providing exceptional orthodontic care, coupled with his passion for serving others, made him a beloved figure across the region.
He is survived by his wife, Silvia, and their three children, Caleb, Gianna, and Liam.
A Life Built on Service and Education
Born on March 6, 1979, in Richmond, Virginia, Dr. Garrison demonstrated a lifelong commitment to helping others. Following high school, he spent two years serving a humanitarian mission in Peru, where he became fluent in Spanish and developed a lasting appreciation for the country’s people and culture.
He later earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Brigham Young University, where he met his future wife, Silvia Bazán.
Dr. Garrison continued his education after receiving a prestigious Health Professions Scholarship from the United States Navy, allowing him to attend Case Western Reserve University, where he earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.
Honorable Military Career
After dental school, Dr. Garrison began seven years of active-duty service as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy.
During his military career, he completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency at the Naval Dental Center, Camp Pendleton, California, where he provided comprehensive dental care to sailors and Marines while supporting military readiness.
His years of service reflected the values of discipline, professionalism, and compassion that continued to define his civilian career.
Excellence in Orthodontics
Following his honorable military service, Dr. Garrison pursued specialty training at the Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics, earning a Master of Science while completing his orthodontic residency.
He later achieved certification as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, one of the profession’s highest voluntary credentials, demonstrating advanced expertise and commitment to clinical excellence.
In 2009, Dr. Garrison established River Ridge Orthodontics, where he dedicated his career to helping children, teens, and adults achieve healthy, confident smiles. His practice served patients throughout Burlington, Fort Madison, and Keokuk, becoming known for personalized care and outstanding results.
A Passion for Family and Community
Outside the orthodontic office, Dr. Garrison devoted much of his time to his family and community.
A lifelong Eagle Scout, he remained actively involved with Boy Scouts of America Troop 3 in Burlington, mentoring young people and helping future generations develop leadership skills and strong character. He also volunteered with the Order of the Arrow’s Nawakwa Lodge, supporting scouting programs and preserving scouting history.
Family members remember him as a loving husband and father who delighted in helping his children pursue their own goals, including guiding his sons through their scouting journeys.
A Life Rich in Faith and Personal Interests
Dr. Garrison’s interests extended well beyond his professional accomplishments.
He enjoyed singing, playing guitar, and sharing traditional Latin American music with his family. He also loved gardening, camping, fishing, grilling, and spending quality time outdoors with those closest to him.
Friends describe him as someone whose warmth, humility, generosity, and joyful spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Visitation and Funeral Services
Family, friends, patients, and colleagues are invited to celebrate Dr. Garrison’s life during the following services:
Visitation
- Date: Wednesday, July 15, 2026
- Time: 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Family receiving friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.)
- Location: Prugh Funeral Service, Burlington, Iowa
Funeral Mass
- Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m.
- Location: Divine Mercy Parish – St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Burlington, Iowa
Following the funeral, Dr. Garrison will be laid to rest with full military honors at Jacksonville National Cemetery in Florida.
Honoring His Legacy
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions be made to Boy Scouts of America Troop 3 in Burlington or Nawakwa Lodge 3 of the Order of the Arrow, organizations that reflected Dr. Garrison’s lifelong commitment to mentoring young people and serving his community.
Dr. Daniel “Dan” Bruce Garrison will be remembered not only for his outstanding achievements in orthodontics and military service but also for his kindness, integrity, generosity, and steadfast devotion to his family, patients, and community. His legacy will continue to inspire all whose lives he touched.
The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of the community remain with Silvia, Caleb, Gianna, Liam, extended family members, friends, colleagues, and patients during this difficult time.