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Thomas Davidson Obituary
Urbandale
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 was held on Wednesday, December 11, 2013 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.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Davidson
December 24, 2013
Suzi -- my sister, Judy Tucker Lowe, notified me of Tom's passing. Although it has been many decades since we have seen each other, I still remember visits to your home with Kris and, of course, all those earlier years of friendship with the Elins. I remember how funny Tom was and what a neat couple you were.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your girls.
Connie Tucker Cole
December 13, 2013
Dear Suzi & Girls...I was so sorry to hear just today from Jane F. that Tom died. He was such an interesting...and fun!...man. I remember many good times with you and Tom on Urbandale Avenue...Best to you all from Denise O'Brien Van
December 13, 2013
Dear Suzi & Girls...I was so sorry to hear just today from Jane F. that Tom died. He was such an interesting...and fun!...man. I remember many good times with you and Tom on Urbandale Avenue at the Flans's...Best to you all from Denise O'Brien Van
December 13, 2013
Condolences to the Davidson Family. We have great memories of Tom and my Dad's friendship.
Barney Sneller Family
Jane Seaton
December 10, 2013
Tom was always a bright spot in the day with his bright smile and zest for life. Suzanne and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Rob Jackson
December 10, 2013
Tom and the Davidson family were great friends to our family over the years. I'll never forget his laughter!My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Jay Jensen
December 10, 2013
Hello Suzanne, Cheri and Jennifer. I wanted to let you know how sorry I am to hear of Tom's passing. Although it's been years since we have been in touch, the Davidson family will always be very close to my heart. I'm thinking of you all at this time. Sincerely, Jay Jackson Jensen
Ron Benefiel Jr
December 10, 2013
Some of our greatest memories in life are gathered from the cherished friendships we are blessed to have encountered, enabling us to store those memories in our time capsules of life. I will forever keep T.W. on my mind and in my heart; always treasuring his keen wisdom he graciously shared with me.
Thank you Tom for being the person who believed in me at a time when I had trouble believing in myself. You will FOREVER be missed. "Happy Sailing my Friend"
Ron Benefiel Jr.
Carol Phillips
December 10, 2013
You will be greatly missed, Cap'n Billy
Carol and Rick Phillips
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Funeral services provided by:
Hamilton’s Funeral Home on Lyon Street605 Lyon Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
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