Robert Davis Obituary

Robert Dee Davis, age 75, suddenly passed away Monday evening, March 30, 2026 at HSHS St. Elizabeth Hospital in O'Fallon, IL. Bobby was born July 22, 1950 in Buchanan, Michigan, to Ralph and Doris, nee Reamer, Davis.

Growing up in Michigan, Bobby was a lifelong Michigan Wolverine Football Fan. After graduating from Western Michigan University with his Associates Degree in Aviation Maintenance in 1971, he enlisted in the Air Force. Bobby served honorably, for 26 years, retiring from Scott AFB, IL., as a Senior Master Sergeant, in 1997. As an Aircraft Mechanic Bobby supported the C-141 missions throughout his entire military career from the flight line to AMC Headquarters to the retirement of the C-141 fleet.

From 1984-1988 Bobby was assigned to DET 2 619 Mass, Christchurch New Zealand. The Detachment was responsible for the direct support of USAF Deepfreeze Operation and the National Science Foundation. DET 2 operations oversaw the Mid-Winter Air Drop, which dropped supplies to the Antarctic McMurdo Sound Base and to the South Pole. In addition they were responsible for the Antarctic Summer supply missions to the McMurdo base which landed C-141 aircraft on the Ross Ice shelf. Bobby had lead responsibility for the logistical and reliability success of Operation Deepfreeze as well as normal airlift operations through Christchurch. Bobby also completed 30+ missions to McMurdo and also on the Mid-winter drop missions to ensure the mechanical/operational success of those missions. Det 2 was well known for its aircraft reliability during Bobby's tenure at the Detachment.

During his active duty career he was awarded decorations and awards, including the AF Commendation Medal with 1 device and the Meritorious Service Medal with 4 devices, the Antarctic Services Medal and Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia).

During his tour at Norton AFB in San Bernardino he met and married Lauri in 1973, and always celebrated becoming a Dad to their son Mitchell. After retirement from the USAF, he enjoyed many more years of aircraft maintenance working the flight line with government contractors and finally retiring after 10 years with the FAA out of the Oklahoma City Will Rogers Airport.

Bobby loved "to live," he camped, fished, traveled, creating stained glass art, wood carving, beer brewing, and volunteering with Vacation Bible School. He took great pride in celebrating 53 years of marriage with Lauri, he cherished fun "Davis family adventures," and laughing while enjoying good times with his friends and loving family.

Bobby was preceded in death by his parents Ralph & Doris Davis and his nephews Jason Davis and Wade Cole.

Survivors include his wife Lauri; son Mitchell Davis and wife Jackie, nee Nurnberger, Davis; and his one-of-a-kind greatly loved granddaughter aka "grrdaughter" Aria Davis. Sister Janet, nee Davis, Cole; Brother Tommy Davis; nieces, cousins, and lifelong friends.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations are suggested to: Arbor Day Foundation (arborday.org), Local Animal Shelters or Samaritan's Purse (samaritanspurse.org).

Messages may be shared with the family at www.wfh-ofallon.com.

Visitation: 4 – 8 pm, Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, 102 W. Washington St., O'Fallon, IL.

Memorial Service will begin at 10 am, Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O'Fallon. Bobby will be laid to rest at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO., where full military honors will be rendered. Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O'Fallon, IL., is serving the family.