LEON A. DAVIDSON

Einan's Funeral Home

Leon A. Davidson went to be with his Lord on May 4, 2010, with his loving family by his side.

The only child of Alex and Marie Davidson, Leon was born on May 21, 1924, in Buena, WA. When he was 17 years old, Leon earned his Eagle Scout award, one of the proudest achievements of his life. He truly lived by the Boy Scout Oath. As a senior at Sunnyside High School, Leon ran his parents' farm while they were building ships in Seattle during the war. In 1943 he graduated as a 3-year letterman in baseball. Although baseball was his passion and he was an avid Mariners fan, Leon very much enjoyed watching and supporting his grandchildren in their various sports.

Following high school he worked making apple boxes in various warehouses in the Tieton area and made 750 boxes per day. During the war years, he worked in the shipyards in Seattle as a pipefitter.

In 1949, Leon came to work on the Hanford Project, to work on the railroad. As a Heavy Duty Equipment operator, he installed 44,615 ties in record time.

After 38 years of employment at Hanford, he retired.

After retirement, Leon had time to enjoy his favorite hobby fishing with his best friend of over 50 years, Dutch Smith. Leon loved the outdoors and gardening, growing prize-winning tomatoes. He always said he loved to watch things grow!

Leon also became a mall walker where he made many new friends. Leon was very proud of his over 24,000 walked miles and many worn out tennis shoes.

Leon was a man of God and loved his Lord. Leon was a member of CUP Church where he met many lifelong friends. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels and the Richland Community Center. He was often seen driving around town in his '55 Ford. Leon was a hard worker who believed in always giving his 100% in anything he did, a trait he passed on to his children. He enjoyed life and his loving family. He never missed a family gathering and was devoted to them. At the age of 84, Leon went on his first jetski ride and roller skated with his grandchildren. His family was blessed with him as their dad, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was their HERO!

In 1949, Leon met the love of his life, Rita Caton. They were married August 20, 1952, in Yakima, WA. That was the beginning of a marriage made in Heaven. They were soul mates and best friends and totally devoted to each other and this was the foundation of our family.

Leon is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Rita; his daughters, LaDonna Lovejoy (Tim) of Las Cruces, NM; Sue Dietrich (Bob) of Kennewick, WA; Leona Repp (Phil) of West Richland, WA; Mary Coates (Tim) of Richland, WA; and his son, Alex Davidson (Lanea) of Las Vegas, NV. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Kristie, Melanie, Rachelle, Jessica, Bobby, Nancy, David, Tommy and Beth; and his great-grandchildren, Cameron, Liberty, Mac, Lincoln, Kade, Melissa, Erica, Evan and baby Sawyer due in June.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alex and Marie Davidson, infant daughter Nancy Marie and his lifelong friend, Dutch.

Special thanks to Dr. Khawandi, Dr. Tabarra and Dr. Merkley for their compassion and care for this special man!

Memorial contributions may be made to the Union Gospel Mission, 425 W. Lewis St., Pasco, WA 99301.

Visitation was held on Thursday, May 6, 2010, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Einan's Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held today, Friday, May 7, 2010, 4:00 p.m. at Central United Protestant Church. The graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 8, 2010, at 1:30 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Express your thoughts and memories on our online Guestbook at www.einansfuneralhome.com.