Thomas W. Davidson
December 08, 2013
Tom Davidson, born April 1, 1939, died Sunday, December 8, 2013.
Befitting his April Fools Day birthday, he chose a frigid snowstorm as the day to sail off to "The Mountains of Wu," his peaceful place. His body will be cremated to fulfill his wish for a Viking burial.
A graduate of East High School, Tom attended Grandview College before and the University of Nebraska after joining the U.S. Air Force where he spent 4+ years. He had previously served 2 years in the National Guard.
In 1962, he began a 32-year career with Anderson Erickson Dairy, first as a home delivery route man and last as a transportation/labor relations director. Following AE retirement, he was a human resources consultant at Firestone and transportation manager at Roberts Dairy.
He served on several business committees and advisory boards for Des Moines Public Schools.
From childhood, he loved the water...swimming, fishing, boating...and most especially sailing with family and friends on "The April Fool" and motoring on "The Tom Foolery." Most recently, he spent as much time as possible at the Lake of the Ozarks home.
Following in his parents footsteps, he was a fabulous cook, famous for the pot roast, barbequed ribs, and secret ingredient fried chicken. His sauces and soups were splendid.
A wealth of knowledge (real, esoteric, or fictitious), he delighted in friendly debates with "the Friday Night Group" - M. Jo, Dale, Todd & Denis.
His greatest joy in life was his family - daughters Cherann and Jennifer; son-in-law Craig; grandpets Lucy, Luna and Whisper, and his wife of 54 years, Suzanne.
Others who will remember him fondly are his sister, Jeannine (Marlyn) Johnson; sisters-in-law Roberta (Tom) Abbott and Kris (Craig) Cable, along with many nieces and nephews.
A gathering in his honor will be held on Wednesday, December 11, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Hamilton's Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines, IA 50309.
Memorials may be directed to the family for the Military Museum at Camp Dodge or the Boy Scouts of America.
On-line condolences may be made at
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Wes and Vel Huffman
12/11/2013
Davidson Family
It has really saddened us to hear that Tom is no longer with us. I have many great memories of being with Tom over the last 40 years, He was a good friend and we are really going to miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. God Bless Wes and Vel
Georgann and Jerry Brown, Springfield, MO
12/11/2013
Suzanne and Girls so sorry to hear the news. We did not know Tom was even sick. Are prays are with you and family. I have good memories of Tom he was a kind and caring person
Ann Margaret Meacham
12/10/2013
Dear Suzanne,
Even now, it's hard to think of Tom without laughing. That's quite a legacy, isn't it?
You and the girls are in my prayers. Much love.
Sherry Larson Easter
12/10/2013
I am sorry for the loss of Tom. All who knew him enjoyed his company. He created a lot of joy and fun.
Judy Burns
12/10/2013
Suzanne - I'm surprised and saddened to learn of Tom's passing. We shared a couple of jokes and memories at the August reunion. I'm sure God has His arms around you and your family.
Judy Stocum
12/10/2013
Suzanne, I am so sad to hear of Tom's passing and am thinking of you at this difficult time. Judy
Carole Wells Mehl
12/09/2013
Suzanne, I just got my first Christmas Card today (which is usually true each year.) It said Tom and Suzanne. This is a shock to me. I remember double dating with you and Tom. I am very saddened at Tom's passing and I am thinking of you. Carole
Darrol and Penny Heggen
12/09/2013
Suzanne, we are so sorry to hear of Tom's death. Our hearts go out to you and your family. We will keep you in our prayers. May God be above you, below you and all around you and may he give you comfort. Love Penny and Darrol.