Dear friends, family, and colleagues,

It is with deep sadness and heartfelt respect that we remember Dr. Daniel Joseph Burba, DVM, of Stillwater, Oklahoma, who passed away on March 18, 2026. Born on February 2, 1961, in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, Daniel was the beloved son of Matchie Chester Burba and Mona Gardner Travis. His memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Rodger Jay Panciera "RJP" building on the Oklahoma State University campus. Strode Funeral Home and Cremation is in charge of arrangements.

Daniel's journey in veterinary medicine began at Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, where he earned his doctorate in 1986. He completed an internship in large animal surgery at Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine and went on to finish his residency in equine surgery in 1990. Daniel joined Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine after his training but later returned to Oklahoma State University, where he served as Professor of Equine Surgery and led the McCasland Professorship in Biomedical Laser Surgery. During his time at OSU CVM, he also served as the Department Head of Veterinary Clinical Services.

Daniel's extraordinary leadership and courage were especially evident during the response to Hurricane Katrina in 2005. He organized emergency efforts for displaced animals, established large animal treatment operations, and led veterinarians from across the country through dangerous and uncertain conditions, even assisting in aerial missions. His dedication to the care of animals and the education of those who serve them was unwavering and inspirational.

Throughout his distinguished career, Daniel earned countless professional accolades, achievements, and the respect of his peers. He touched the lives of many wherever he went-always remembered for his kindness, steady presence, and warm smile. He was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, esteemed colleague, mentor, and friend. Daniel's generous spirit and lifelong dedication made a lasting impact on the veterinary community and beyond.

Outside of his professional life, Daniel found great joy in the life he built with his family. He loved his land, took pride in caring for his horses, and enjoyed traveling, spending time with his loved ones, and showing his horses. He found peace on his tractor, tending to the property he cherished. these simple, meaningful moments reflected the same dedication and care that defined his life's work.

He is survived by his wife Nancy Burba of Stillwater, his son Allan Joseph Burba of Stillwater, his mother Mona (Gardner) Burba Travis of Altoona, Florida, his brothers Richard L. Burba and wife Laurie of Cherry Tree, Pennsylvania, and David A. Burba and wife Kelli of Altoona, Florida.

Dr. Daniel J. Burba's legacy is one of service, knowledge, and kindness. He will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched, his family, friends, colleagues, and the many students and professionals, fortunate enough to learn from him. As we honor his memory, let us celebrate the remarkable life he led and the indelible mark he left on us all.

With heartfelt condolences and gratitude for his life and legacy, in lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Oklahoma State University Foundation to establish a student scholarship in Dr. Burba's memory (Memorial Fund 20-03700)

Checks may be made payable to the OSU Foundation and mailed to:
OSU Foundation
PO Box 1749
Stillwater, OK 74076-1749