Richard Davenport

Richard Davenport

Richard Davenport Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Sep. 12 to Sep. 14, 2004.
Davenport, Richard A."Herky", owner of R. A. Davenport Interiors, age 67, passed away Friday, September 10, 2004. Family visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 PM, Monday at the Broadway Mortuary. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, at 1:30 PM, at the University Congregational Church. Herky was born on July 13, 1937 at St. Luke's Hospital in Kansas City to Ethelyn and Tahkee Oskee Davenport. He grew up in Kansas City, graduated from Southwest High School, and graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Interior Design. He was a member of Phi Kappa Psi fraternity and the Golden Gloves light-heavy weight champion for the State of Kansas. Herky attended Boot Camp at Parris Island and was always proud of being a United States Marine. In 1961, he married Rosemary Mahr and they moved to Wichita. Shortly thereafter he founded R. A. Davenport Interiors. As his business grew, so did his family. He and Rosemary had three children: Derek, Leslie and Robby. Herky had a passion for racing sports cars. Known on the racing circuit as Dick Davenport, he won four Sports Car Club of America national championships, the 24-hours of Daytona twice in class, and numerous other prestigious sports car events throughout the country. His racing career spanned three decades, ending in 1985. Recently, he resumed this avocation, teaming up with his son Rob to race vintage sports cars. In addition to racing cars, he enjoyed riding motorcycles and collecting vintage automobiles. Each day of his life was an adventure. In 1971, Herky and Rosie began construction of their present home. Completed after 18 months, this residence introduced to Wichita the architecture of New Mexico and the Southwest. His interest in Southwestern architecture, artifacts, rugs and overall design are evident in his work. This style has since been duplicated throughout the Mid-West. His understanding of classical architecture allowed him to effortlessly create spaces for his clients that reflected their personal selection of style. His work will have a lasting impression on numerous clients and friends, serving as a constant reminder for those who knew him and loved him. Herky was happiest spending quality time with family and friends. He is survived by wife, Rosemary; sons, Derek and wife Barbara Davenport of Fayetteville, AR; Rob and Lorie Davenport of Louisville, KY; daughter, Leslie and husband George Brett of Mission Hills, KS; brother, Robert and wife Mary Davenport of San Diego, CA; uncle, Bill King of Stockton, MO; cousin, Gloria Woltemath of Leawood, KS; grandchildren: Ellie and Robby Davenport, Jackson, Dylan and Robin Brett. Memorials have been established with Wichita Children's Home, Sedgwick County Zoo and the Kansas Humane Society. Services by Broadway Mortuary.

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October 11, 2004

Nancy Reiland Domingue posted to the memorial.

October 7, 2004

Heidi (Hiestand) Valbusa posted to the memorial.

September 28, 2004

John Nash posted to the memorial.

Nancy Reiland Domingue

October 11, 2004

Dear Rob, I'm so saddened to hear the news. What a great loss of a talented, kind, great man. In 1988 I ran into you and your parents in Monaco and your father was so very generous in asking me to join you to view the Grand Prix. It’s a very happy memory and I hope it reminds you of a happier time. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Heidi (Hiestand) Valbusa

October 7, 2004

Davenports,



I am so very sorry to hear of Dick's passing. My memories of him will always include our late sister Jennifer, and hopefully they are now off together exploring somewhere, causing trouble. I have a great picture of Jennifer, sitting in the sidecar, with Dick on the Bike. You all were a great source of support during her illness and we will never forget that. My love and thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

John Nash

September 28, 2004

Dick you'll Be missed ,Me & Rios won't ever forget when we met you.We had lots of laughes& good times when you caught up with us in Kc , Ks. My Prayers are with you & your family. SEMPER FI

Lacey Rios

September 26, 2004

Davenport Family,

Our thought & prayers are with you at this sad time. We met Dick at QT, my husband is a KCK police motorcycle officer & they were both filling up one day and just started talking. That was eleven years ago. Dick would call & meet for lunch when he was in town. Or there is the time that he called to get a police escort into the Kansas Speedway so he did not have to wait in traffic. Dick was a special person to us and will be deeply missed.



Steve, Lacey, Taylor & Hunter

Ashley and Leslie DeVore

September 18, 2004

We are so sorry for your loss. May you find strength in the loved ones around you in this time of sadness.

Shawn & Caroline Broes

September 17, 2004

Our deepest sympathies to your family. We wish we could have been there in your time of grief. God bless all.

Doug Bracken

September 17, 2004

Please accept our deepest sympathies on behalf of the Bracken Family, the staff of Wiemann Ironworks and Ernest and Dorothy Wiemann.

Nancy Beckham

September 17, 2004

I am very sorry to hear of your loss. Nobody understands why these things happen, but one thing we know is that he is in a good place. The pain and grief felt now will pass in due time, while his memory will be kept alive forever through the memories you all share.

Steve Campbell

September 17, 2004

Rob, Lori and family: So sorry to hear of your loss. My and my family's thoughts and prayers are with you.

Linda Graves

September 16, 2004

Our family was so sorry to hear of Herk's death. When Bill and I were in Wichita at events we would inevitably run into Rosemary and Herk. I respected Herk's enthusiasm and Rosemary's

graciousness. He was just a great guy....a great talent of a person. We send our thoughts to you albeit, late having just learned of his death. Linda Graves

Scott Lopez

September 16, 2004

Rob, Lori, and family,

I am deeply sorry to hear of your lost and my heart is with you. You will be in my prayers.

lance sedbrook

September 15, 2004

Rob and Family,



My prayers and condolences go out to you and your family at this difficult time. Mr. Davenport always made me feel at home whenever I visited your house, and was always gracious and generous with his time. I'll always remember the times he showed me (a wide-eyed teenager) his cars, patiently fielding endless questions. God Bless You and your family.

Pepper Burns

September 15, 2004

Rosie, Teresa and I learned of your loss from Hindson. We are so sorry, he will be greatly missed. Please let me know if there is anything we can do. All our best, Teresa and Pepper.

Ray Strothman

September 15, 2004

Rob, Lori and Family



Carolyn and I will pray for you and the your family. We are sorry for your loss.

Charles (Chuck) Broadwell

September 15, 2004

I am sorry to hear of the passing of a classmate and fraternity brother at the Univ. of Kansas. My deepest sympathy to the family.

Donald Tusher

September 15, 2004

I was first "exposed" to Herky when we were in the same Pledge class as potential Phi Psi's. Herky was a leader in that group and we had great times. He was always laughing and funny and kept us in stitches most of the time. Although I had lost track of him and most other brothers in these many years since 1956 I still have many fond memories of Herky.

Dick & Cynthia Mortberg

September 15, 2004

Cynthia and I send wish to express our deepest sympathy on the passing of your father. May God comfort you and your family in this sorrowful time.

Mack Justice

September 15, 2004

Rob, Lori, and entire family,

My family and I are so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know the tremendous support that each of you have from your friends and family here in Kentucky. Our church has been made aware of your loss, and they are praying for you and asking that God lift you up at this trying time. There certainly is power in numbers, and we pray that God will offer comfort and strength for each of you.

Berniece Compton

September 15, 2004

Mrs. Davenport, I am so sorry for you're loss, I know first hand what you are going through. I lost my husband Dick Compton 01-01-04. He and you're husband were friends through the race game.My prayers are with you and yours. Berniece Compton

Roy Cosan

September 14, 2004

My condolences to the family. I only met Herky once but have known him for years through Mrs D and Bob. I just asked Bob how Herky was on our recent fishing trip. May the many great memories of Herky be with you always. God Bless. Roy Cosan and Family

Phil & Marjorie Asper

September 14, 2004

Dick was a good & neighbor many years ago in Wichita. I loved to go on racing adverntures with him. He will be missed by many.

Michael Peavler

September 14, 2004

Rob, Lorie & Family,



Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out for you in this time of loss. Rob, though I never had the opportunity to meet your Dad, I know and understood the closeness you had with him. May God comfort and bless you and yours.



Michael Peavler & Family

Carolyn Whitaker

September 14, 2004

Rob, Lorie and family,

I am so sorry for your profound loss. May wonderful memories fill your heart and ease your pain. May God continue to give you strength at this difficult time and for all the days ahead. Abundant blessings to all your family.

Stephen Sheek

September 14, 2004

My prayers and thoughts go out to you and yours. I lost both my parents in the last few years and empathize with you. Remain strong.

Dan Speer

September 14, 2004

Rob Davenport and Family,



I am very sorry to hear of your loss. You and yours have the deepest sympathies of the Speer Family.



Sincerely,



Dan Speer

Raymond & Shirley Lindle

September 14, 2004

Rob, Lorie and family,

Our prayers go out for you and we can only hope that God's peace can soon touch your hearts.

Sabrina Bardwell-Titelbaum

September 14, 2004

Dear Rosie, Derek, Leslie and Robbie: Words cannot express how saddened I was to hear from my sister Valerie Herndon about Dick's passing. Let me refresh your memory of me. I am Sarah Wright's youngest granddaughter from Wichita. Rosie, I remember very vividly when I used to babysit all three of your kids after my oldest sister Valerie had left that helm. (smile) This is when you lived in your "A" shaped house off of Hillside. I always had such good memories of that darling home and had lots of fun with your kids. I remember how very sweet Dick was to me way back then and also how frightened I was as a kid when he'd sometimes pick me up to babysit or take me home on his motorcycle! When you're 16-17 and have never been on a motorcyle before, I must say if you have to get on one, Dick was the person to get on the bike with! He used to tell me to just hold on tight and don't be afraid. I think I was still afraid, but trusted him nonetheless. Even though I had lost touch with your family once moving to California, I often thought about all of you and even upon returning home some time ago I remember finally getting to see your beautiful new home when Valerie and I stopped by one day. I remember asking Dick to be my interior decorator if I ever got the chance to own a home. As sweet as he was, he told me to just give him a call when that time ever came. I don't remember much of anything else other than his always being so kind. Even before my grandmother passed away, she would always mention your family as if she'd never left it. I believe the impact you all left on her is one of the things that sustained her throughout her life until she passed. That's the kind of impression Dick had upon people. Losing a loved one is so hard. To the kids: Know that I TRULY understand the loss of a Father, being that we lost ours three years ago. It's a very big challenge to get through the loss, but knowing that God's will is what is at hand here, in time, you will manage. Keep his memory alive. Talk about him always. Fulfill his legacy in all that you want to do and the pain will lessen. Rosie, my heartfelt sympathies and prayers go out to you even more. And if I could be there to tell you that in person, I would. I will continue to keep you and your family in prayer. Love, Sabrina

Phil and Emmy Bump

September 13, 2004

Dear Rosie and kids, We are away from Wichita... but want you to know that we care. Dick was a wonderful friend and a very talented decorator. We pray for you all. You have our heartfelt sympathy!!!! Phil and Emmy Bump

Dr. Bob Bogue

September 13, 2004

Rosemary and family,

We learned of Dick's passing today.

I remember my retirement party and the baseball Dick gave me. I still have it. Glenna and I remember both your love for animals. It was a pleasure to serve you both as your veterinarin. May our God give you peace and comfort. Memories do sustain us. Blessings on you and your family.

Bob Hindson

September 13, 2004

Dear Rosemary and family, I am so truly sad to hear of Dicks passing I have received numerous phone calls regarding your loss.I will always remember Dicks robust manner and great humor always one with a joke to tell. Dick was the one who put together the package for us to go to the Daytona 24 Hour I always admired Dicks driving ability and talent, he will be truly missed. Bob Hindson

Alex & Cindy Lindle

September 13, 2004

Rob, Lorie, and family:



Our hearts go out to you and your family, we'll keep you in our prayers.

Tom McGlade

September 13, 2004

Rosie and Family:

Knowing Dick, for almost 30 yrs. Not one time, did he not put a big smile on my face or have a joke to tell us. He was a great and wonderful man. Wayne and I, will miss him greatly. (Old Owners of International Materials.)

Gretchen and Jack Maronde

September 13, 2004

Rosie and family....



Jack and I are so sad to hear of your loss...



Our family will always remember Dick and how he teased, joked....and inspired! He was always so great to our boys.....and took a special interest in each of them...



I will never forget his laugh and that devilish twinkle in his eyes when he teased me..which he always did!....And the race down Douglas that he let me win....and live to tell the tale!



Dick had a huge heart and wonderful talent....and he will be missed by all that knew him....



You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers...

Heather Dugan

September 13, 2004

Dear Rosie, Derek, Leslie & Robby - I am truly saddened for your loss. I have such fond memories of Herky. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.



Heather (Buxton) Dugan

Matt & Nene Trentham

September 13, 2004

Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Joe Jimenez

September 13, 2004

Dear Rosie,

I worked with Dick (Double D) designing Mission Hills Country Club in KC. I was surprised and saddened to learn of his passing. I came to your house a few times to see him (I am from Wichita) and met you as well. I will miss him and his everlasting charm. I hope you are doing well. The Lord will take care of Double D. Take care,

Joe Jimenez

jeff wilson

September 13, 2004

My thoughts and prayers are with you...I met Dick when I started to work at European Car Company in the early 80's for Fred and my Uncle Mike, Dick had a twinkle in his eye and an onery smile then and through the years since that time. He always had a joke or story to tell. He was always passionate in everything he did and I admire him for that. He will be missed! May God Bless you. Jeff Wilson

Rosie Howard

September 13, 2004

Dear Rob, Lorie and family,

Our hearts go out to you and your family. May God bless each of you with strength, peace and beautiful memories during this very sad time.

Rosie and Ron

Elliot Brand

September 13, 2004

Derrick:



Our Family is very sorry for your loss. Our hearts are with you.



Elliot, Leslie, Sam, and Gray

Carol Turnier

September 13, 2004

Rob, Lorie and all the Davenport family. We want to express our deepest sympathy on the death of your father. This is a time when family's need each other the most, and grow even stronger in their comfort of one another. May God Bless each of you during this period and in the weeks and months to come.

Carol and Bert Turnier

Bradley Sublett

September 13, 2004

Richard, You have left a great legacy with your son and all the great things he does for the people back in Kentucky. Although many of us heard all wonderful things about you we all know how special you were in Robs life. God Bless your soul.



Brad Sublett

Trudy Moses

September 13, 2004

To Rob and Family:

Although your loved one's departure has left a void; fill it remembered joy.

May God bless and keep your family now and forever is our prayer.



Trudy Moses & Family

Bob Smith

September 13, 2004

Dear Derek & Family:

I am so sorry for your loss. I never met your dad, but I remember so many great stories. I know he was well loved and will be missed.

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

September 13, 2004

Dear Rosie & Family...we all have lost a brilliant, witty and, multi-talented human being in Dick. How very very sad! Bob Cressler

Mike "Barney" Wilson

September 13, 2004

Leslie, George and the boys,

I met Herk through my association with George. Always a smile and handshake, ocassionally a humorus joke. Always went out of his way just to say "Hello, Barney" Though my memories are few they will not be forgotten!!

God Bless the Davenports and Bretts

Jim Graf

September 13, 2004

Dear Leslie, Your old Latin teacher wants you and yours to know that my sympathy and prayers are coming your way...in Christ's love, Jim Graf

Jennie Chaney George

September 13, 2004

Dear Rose and Family,

My fond memories of "Herky" link back to SW High School where I knew him to be such a fun loving and generously kind hearted human being. He was a pleasure to know.

Judy Bjorseth

September 13, 2004

Dear George and Leslie,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your father and grandfather was someone that I never forgot after meeting him at one of the ALS functions. I always wondered how he mixed that hay in the stucco. I will remember his wonderful personality, smile, and his great talent as a designer! My thoughts are with you, George, your mother, and all the kids.

Brian Milvain

September 13, 2004

Mrs. Davenport,

My name is Brian Milvain, and I was a big fan of Dick Davenport. When I was growing up my dad (Mike Milvain), Bob Hindson, and Dick were men I loved being around. I loved racing and they all looked like they were having fun.



I remember we stayed at your house (it was beautiful) one time and also saw the shop where the Alfas and then the Datsuns were prepared. Yes you could eat off the floor.



My condolences to you and your family. I will always have a place in my memories for the races at Lake Afton or Mid-America and cheering Dick and Frank on.



Sincerely,

Brian Milvain

Kevin Leivian

September 13, 2004

Dear Rosie, Derek, Leslie and Rob, I send my deepest condolences to you and your families during this most difficult time. Dick was a great friend and he was the sole inspiration for the career path I had chosen. I was truly impressed by his talents and accomplishments and you couldn't ask for a more kind and generous person. Dick was the first person to ever give me an Architectural book prior to going to college which remains the nicest book in my collection, it will be cherished forever. I truly have great memories of spending time with Dick and your family and he will be dearly missed. My thoughts and prayers will be with all of you now and forever.

Junia & Mike Milvain

September 13, 2004

Rosie,

Dick was one of my driving instructors at Hutch. "Milvain, you're either on the gas--hard--or on the brake--no feathering".



Dick was great fun to be around. He gave Junia incredible static about how the young ladies were going to lead "her" son Brian astray, supplying details of course!!



We still tell the story of how Dick, during the construction of the new house, told the workers, "no straight edges".



Being around the Davenports during our racing period was a great time.



We know this is a great loss. Our thoughts are with you.

Janice & Steve Talge

September 13, 2004

Dear Rosemary and family, Steve and I were deaply saddened to learn of Herky's death. He was our high school friend and friend for many years and will be dearly missed by all of us. We send our love and prayerful thoughts to you and your family at this sad time. Janice & Steve Talge

Wes George

September 13, 2004

As a K.U. Phi Psi brother, I was saddened to learn of "Herky's" passing. My sympathy to his family.

Linda Talbott

September 12, 2004

Dear Rosie and family,

We are all very sad for you. I remember the way Dick always teased me unmercifully and I can still hear his laughter. He will be missed by so many friends. Please know you have my deepest sympathy.

Love,

Linda

sarah baughman International materials

September 12, 2004

Dear Rosie and Family, I cannot find words to express how sad I am about the loss of Dick. He was a good and loyal friend. He was so creative and told great jokes. He

was truly a good person and loved his family very much.

Tim Gillin

September 12, 2004

Dear Leslie, George, Jackson, Dylan , and Robin.

We send our love and prayers to you all. We are sorry for your lose and are thinking of you at this time.

God Bless you all.



Tim and Lori Gillin

Kathie Shannon Kropschot

September 12, 2004

Rosemary and family- It was with very great sorrow that I learned of Herky's death. Among all my high school friends, he was one of the most special. Deepest condolences.

Joenne Wilton/Lewis

September 12, 2004

I am so saddened by the news that Herky is gone. I have instant memories of him in high school, college and the past reunions and both my husband and I looked foreward to seeing him again next June. I guess it will just be a little longer. Fondly, Joenne

Ron and Elaine Gill Claiborne

September 12, 2004

Our hearts are breaking with yours. Please accept sincere condolences from Herky's many, many old friends who loved and admired him.

Morris Stauffer

September 12, 2004

My sincere condolences to the family of a man I enjoyed working with and I felt was tops in his profession.

Larry Stewart

September 12, 2004

Leslie, George, and children: Our hearts are deeply saddened by your loss. My memories of Herk are always with a smile. You and your family are in our prayers. May God bless you. Larry & family.

Don and Mary Morgan

September 12, 2004

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Davenport family at this most difficult time.

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October 11, 2004

Nancy Reiland Domingue posted to the memorial.

October 7, 2004

Heidi (Hiestand) Valbusa posted to the memorial.

September 28, 2004

John Nash posted to the memorial.