Robert H. Davidson

Bob was born in Chicago on Nov. 10, 1942, son of the late Harry and Lucile (Bayles) Davidson. After graduating from Felch High School in 1960, Bob completed his bachelor’s degree in physical education from Central Michigan University in 1967, and then he earned his master’s degree in arts and education from Northern Michigan University in 1979. During that time, he also served in the U.S. Army.

On Aug. 15, 1969, Bob married the former Darlene Kangas, who preceded him in death on Nov. 8, 2014; they were married for 45 years. Bob and Darlene enjoyed traveling for Gideon conventions, managing baseball teams, and spending time with their families. After Darlene’s passing, Bob reconnected with a Felch classmate, and on Sept. 18, 2016, Bob married Pat Nylund. The two of them enjoyed exploring different restaurants, going to concerts, and attending many conferences for the church. Pat and Bob shared almost nine years together.

Bob began teaching at Felch High School, which transitioned to North Dickinson, where he taught physical education and history for 30 years. Bob’s athleticism and love of sports kept him active. He loved running, working out in the school gym, and was always ready for a game of badminton. At North Dickinson he was known as Mr. D and was the eternal coach, always supporting and encouraging students in athletics and academics. He touched many lives throughout his teaching career, retiring in 1997. He actively supported the Nordic athletic program, attending many different sports, along with scorekeeping at basketball games and announcing or running the scoreboard at football games.

Bob had a passion for baseball. He played for Central Michigan University and in more recent years enjoyed attending the annual alumni game. Playing and managing the local Felch community team with enthusiasm provided many happy memories. He spent many joyful summers coaching and playing the game. He continued to play in the Men’s Senior Baseball League in Arizona well into his 70s. A devoted Detroit Tigers fan, Bob loved everything related to America’s favorite pastime.

Bob also had a steadfast faith. Reading the Bible each morning and sharing a devotional with his family was the start of his day. He was a member of the Abiding Word Free Lutheran Church. Bob taught Sunday school for numerous years and served with The Gideons International for 50 years. He witnessed at the local jail for many years. Bob’s Bible was always with him; a well-worn treasure filled with important events, lessons and notes.

A true “Yooper,” Bob enjoyed being in the woods. Deer hunting, fishing for brook trout, and logging were some of his favorites. After retirement, Bob logged in the woods full time, happy to spend his time in the great outdoors.

Bob was a devoted family leader and enjoyed supporting those he loved. As a grandfather, he frequently drove to his grandchildren’ s sporting, musical, and school events to show his love and support. Bob loved connecting with people he cared about. His children, grandchildren, friends and relatives can all attest to the uplifting power of his loving calls and letters always ending with the encouraging statement, “Stay in the word.”

Bob will be deeply missed by his wife, Pat; two children, Candy (Scott) Schoenborn and Joshua (Heidi) Davidson; four grandchildren, Emma (Willow) Elser, Ailie Schoenborn, Anna Davidson, and Paul Davidson; four siblings, Ed (Janet) Davidson, Doug Davidson, Ann (Randy) Sheldon, and Murial (Jim) Bratcher; and many more family and friends.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Lucile; his first wife, Darlene; and a sister-in-law, Cynda.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 30, at the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home, 901 Carpenter Ave. in Iron Mountain. Visitation will continue from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, July 31, at the Felch Community Center, 4243 M-69 in Felch, with the Rev. Tom Schierkolk officiating the funeral service at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Felch Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Bob’s name may be made to The Gideons International or the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations Home Missions.

Condolences may be expressed to the family of Robert H. Davidson online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.

The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.