Robert "Bob" Daverman

Robert "Bob" Daverman was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan to his parents, Herbert and Marian Daverman. He and his siblings, Richard and Elizabeth, thrived in the city and along the shores of Lake Michigan.

He attended Grand Rapids Christian Schools where he met the love of his life, Lana Tinholt. Together, they attended Calvin College (now Calvin University). Bob went on to earn his PhD in Mathematics at the University of Wisconsin.

The family moved to Knoxville in 1967 when Bob took a teaching position at the University of Tennessee. He was a professor in the math department until he retired around 2012. He loved all aspects of math – teaching, researching, analyzing and writing books. He published two textbooks and authored or co-authored over 100 articles. Bob served as the Secretary of the American Mathematical Society for over a decade. He was known globally/internationally within the mathematics community.

Bob had many interests. He had a deep love for traveling and experiencing new cultures. He loved music, photography, hiking, skiing (water and snow), and he was a voracious reader. He and Lana loved to entertain and open their home. For many years they hosted guest performers with the Knoxville Opera.

Bob and Lana were active and involved members for over 50 years at Westminster Presbyterian Church. He served in many roles over those years.

Bob was known for his brilliant mind, his quick wit, his sharp memory and analytical skills. For example, he created a four-page, single-space document of all the homonyms/homophones he encountered.

Bob was preceded by his parents, Herbert and Marian and his sister, Elizabeth. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Lana and his children, Kurt (Robin) and Lara (Ross). He is survived by his five grandchildren and one great-granddaughter: Jun and Bobby Daverman, Nia (Collin) Wassink, Gabby (Emily) Taylor, Noah Helmus and Zendaya Taylor. He is also survived by his brother, Richard (Connie), and nephews/niece: Brooks, Courtney, Andrew, Fransijn.

He was a dear friend to many, and he leaves a hole in the hearts of friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church or Parkinson's Foundation.

There will be a visitation on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 1-3 at Rose Mann Heritage Chapel, 6200 Kingston Pike, Knoxville TN. A Celebration of Life will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 6500 S. Northshore DR, Knoxville TN, on Sunday, February 15 at 2:00. A reception will follow.