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BURLINGTON, IOWA — The communities of Burlington, Fort Madison, and Keokuk are mourning the loss of Dr. Daniel “Dan” Bruce Garrison, a respected board-certified orthodontist, devoted U.S. Navy veteran, and dedicated community leader who passed away on July 5, 2026, at the age of 47.

Dr. Garrison was widely recognized as the owner and primary clinician of River Ridge Orthodontics, where he spent years transforming smiles while building meaningful relationships with patients and their families across Southeast Iowa. His commitment to compassionate care, clinical excellence, and community service earned him the admiration and respect of colleagues and residents alike.

Born on March 6, 1979, in Richmond, Virginia, Dr. Garrison dedicated his life to serving others. Following high school, he volunteered on a two-year humanitarian mission in Peru, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for South American culture and became fluent in Spanish. His experiences shaped his commitment to helping people from all walks of life.

He later earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Brigham Young University, where he met his wife, Silvia Bazán. Dr. Garrison continued his education at Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine, earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree through the United States Navy’s Health Professions Scholarship Program.

Commissioned as a Navy lieutenant, Dr. Garrison completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at Camp Pendleton before serving seven years on active duty, providing dental care to sailors and Marines. After his military service, he pursued specialized orthodontic training at Jacksonville University and became a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a distinction held by a select number of orthodontists nationwide.

In 2009, Dr. Garrison founded River Ridge Orthodontics, serving patients throughout Burlington, Fort Madison, and Keokuk. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was deeply committed to youth mentorship, volunteering with local Scouting programs and encouraging young people to pursue lives of integrity, leadership, and service.

Dr. Garrison is survived by his beloved wife, Silvia, and their three children, Caleb, Gianna, and Liam, who were the center of his life. His family, friends, colleagues, patients, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched will remember him for his kindness, generosity, humility, and unwavering dedication to serving others.

Funeral services will be held through Prugh Funeral Service and Divine Mercy Parish–St. Paul’s, with Dr. Garrison to be laid to rest at Jacksonville National Cemetery in Florida, honoring both his distinguished military service and a life devoted to caring for others. His legacy of compassion, leadership, and service will continue to inspire generations to come.