Obituary
Richard Brian Davis, fondly known as "Dick" to friends and family, took his final flight to the great beyond on June 30, 2023. Born on May 9, 1935, in the charming coastal town of Crescent City, CA, he departed from his home in the beautiful mountainous region of Gasquet, CA. His journey was filled with laughter, love, and a generous sprinkle of mischief, a testament to a life well-lived.
Dick was a graduate of St. Martin's High School and Oregon State University, where he made some wonderful lifelong friends, and honed his knack for numbers and spatial reasoning. This skill led him to a remarkable career as a land surveyor, aerial photogrammetrist, and private pilot. He became a stalwart figure in the industry, running the Richard B Davis Co. for over half a century. But let's be honest, what he really enjoyed was the escape, the bird's eye view of the world, and the thrill of soaring above it all.
Family was the cornerstone of Dick's life. His parents, forever locals Matt and Muriel Davis, went ahead to set the table in Heaven for the rest of the family, as did his brother, Gerry Davis. His brother Matt “Jim” Davis and sister Mary Raymond (Mike), and a lot of beloved nieces and nephews now are missing Dick’s love, encouragement, and goofy humor. His daughters (lovingly referred to as his “chickens”), Katherine Mize (Bob), Maggie Davis-Rogers (Randy Joe), Lyz Reagen (Israel), Suzanne Young (Darrel), Sarah Davis-Allen (Byron), and Annie Williams (Max), were his pride and joy, and his love and support for his grandkids and great-grandkids was fierce and clear. His former wife, Mickey Holcomb, remained a dear friend and confidante, proving that love can evolve in surprising ways. Dick's family gatherings were legendary, equal parts comedy show and love fest. He had a knack for making everyone feel cherished, from his daughters, grandkids, and great grandkids, to the mailman, the neighborhood kids, and anyone else who happened to be fortunate enough to wander into his loving orbit.
Dick was an avid angler, but let's be clear, his love for fishing wasn't just about the thrill of the catch. It was about the tall tales he could spin about the one (whether fish, buck or bear) that got away. He was a master storyteller, weaving yarns that were as outrageous as they were entertaining. His laughter was infectious, his smile could light up a room, and his bear hugs were legendary. If you were lucky enough to receive one, you'd be treated to a wonderfully comforting squeeze and rhythmic pats on the back.
Dick was a man of many passions. He loved to encourage those around him, seeing potential in everyone he met. He had a knack for lifting spirits and making people believe in themselves. His positivity was contagious, and his kindness was as reliable as the sunrise. Dick was the kind of guy who would give you the shirt off his back, then crack a joke about how you'd have to iron it yourself.
Dick Davis was a loving father, a kind friend, a funny companion, and a pillar of our community. His passing leaves a void that will be filled with fond memories, hearty laughter, and tales of his exploits. As he soars into the great beyond, one can only imagine the celestial chuckle and “Wahoo!” that echoes through the skies. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will continue to inspire all who knew him.
So, here's to you, Dick. May your final flight be smooth, your fish stories even taller, and your laughter the loudest in the great beyond. You've truly earned your wings. We’ll see you when it’s our turn to come to dinner.
See below for Celebration of Life Services