Joseph Dave Weldon Davidson

He joined the Navy in July 1942 and served on the USS Richmond during WWII as a machinist. The Richmond was stationed in the Aleutian Islands and was responsible for disrupting Japanese shipping. The Richmond participated in one of the longest range ship battles of the war, Battle of the Komandorski Islands. .When the war ended, the Richmond sailed into Ominato Harbor as the flagship and witnessed the signing of surrender by eight Japanese officers. He was honorably discharged from the service December 13, 1945. He was very proud of his service and attended many veteran events and was privileged to be able to go on an Honor Flight to Washington D.C.

After the war, he did iron working and welding and two of the most notable jobs were Shamrock Hotel and the Washburn Tunnel. In early 1950, he joined the Pettigrew Smith Auto Supply Corp. and eventually became a part owner and shareholder of several stores. In 1990, the company was sold and he retired.

He married the love of his life, Jacqueline Hamilton on January 4, 1946. They loved cruising, playing golf, playing cards, and traveling with friends to fun and exotic places. Together for 69 years of marriage, they raised three children, have 10 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

He was a life-long member and Elder Emeritus of Second Christian Church, member and past president of the Lions Club, and a 32nd Degree Mason since 1962.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Jacqueline Hamilton, his daughter Donna Loftin and husband Leslie, his daughter Linda Warren and husband Bill, his son Paul Davidson and wife Shirley. Fondly called Papa, Pops, GPa, he is survived by 10 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

Dave always had a smile on his face, a quick wit, sharp mind, and a desire to live life to its fullest. He was ready to step in and help whenever he could and even with his eyesight failing, managed to live a full and active life. Most would say he “never met a stranger”. He had a host of friends. He will be greatly missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you donate to the charity of your choice.