Dr. Jeffrey Bassman

Dr. Jeffrey Bassman, DDS, of Davenport, Iowa passed away peacefully on Friday, January 12th at the age of 72.

Jeff was born in Des Moines, Iowa on March 29, 1951 to father, Morris Bassman and mother, Shirley (Berg) Bassman.

He graduated from Roosevelt High School in Des Moines in 1969.  Jeff went on to attend the University of Iowa where he completed his Doctorate of Dental Science and made lifelong friends, many through his membership at the AEPi fraternity.

He moved to Davenport, Iowa in 1977 and opened a dental practice, later specializing in pain management.  In the last years of dental school he discovered a passion for running which lasted the rest of his life.  His love for running propelled him to run dozens of marathons (including the Boston Marathon), over 45 Bix races and led him to donate countless hours of his time for over 40 years as the director of volunteers for the annual Bix 7 race.

Jeff was a proud father, deeply involved in the lives of his kids and grandkids.  When his kids were young, he never missed a game, theater performance or opportunity to wholeheartedly cheer them on and tell them they made him proud.  He loved sports and helped coach several of his kids’ teams over the years.  He also loved his cats, calling them his “boys”, giving them regular karate chops and sending pictures of them far and wide. 

Those who met him, worked alongside him and who were loved by him knew he always had a joke and kind words for them.  He had many catchphrases, the most used -  “Go Wild” -  will forever echo in his loved ones’ ears with his memory.

He is survived by his children Andrea (Alex) and Kyle (Stefani); grandchildren Harper, Barrett, Atessa, Maverick and Ashton; siblings Joel and Bobbi and brother-in-law Bob; ex-wife and lifelong friend Melissa; and countless cherished friends and relatives.

A celebration of life will be held in Davenport, Iowa in August 2024.  Halligan-McCabe-DeVries Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.  Further details will be posted when available.