Evelyn Davis Obituary

Evelyn June Ketchum Davis

Evelyn June Ketchum Davis, 90, of rural Gilbert (Lakeland) Minn., went home to our Lord and Savior on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Essentia Health Northern Pines Hospital, Aurora, Minn.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 33 years "Pete" Ellsworth Davis (1987). Her parents Milo and Audrey (Grider) Ketchum. Siblings; Ruth, Jean, Glen "Bud", Mary Anne and Carol. Children; David and Rodney. Grand children; Shawn, Mathew and Mark. Great Grandchild: Summer. Several nephews & a niece.

Evelyn is survived by her brother Gary (Gayla) Ketchum. Her children; Jeffrey ( Gina) Davis, Julie Davis Olson (Tony Genova) and Darin (Karla) Davis. Numerous grandchildren, great grand children and great great grandchildren.

Evelyn was born on February 13, 1935, in Rankin, Illinois. She was raised in the rural surrounding area.

As a young woman Evelyn enjoyed band, speech, drama and other clubs. She excelled in many academic activities as well. She was involved in Daughters of American Revolution and was chosen for Illinois Girls State & many Band Competitions. Winning numerous awards for all. Her interest in many of these activities stemmed from her father's advice " If you join the club you can participate and attend for free." She attended high school at Rankin High School, graduating in 1953 as the Salutatorian of her class.

Evelyn and Ellsworth "Pete" Davis were united in marriage on June 26, 1954. 5 children soon followed.

She enjoyed raising her 5 children and babysat many others while working for St. Louis County, providing day care in their home for many years. She was very active in Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4H & also very active in her church. She was also a long time member of the American Legion Auxilary.

Evelyn LOVED to learn! She took many courses at Mesabi Community College and owned a diverse library of books. She often travelled to New York to visit her daughter Julie and her family.They took many trips to the museums, historic landmarks and Broadway shows. She also made a number of trips to Mexico, out west and the southern United States, catalogging over 100 bird species.

She lived a full life. She got the most enjoyment from taking care of her family, friends, her yard, vegetable garden, flowers and bird watching. Evelyn enjoyed people and working in a variety of jobs. During her high school years she worked in the local candy store. She went on to be one of the few telephone switch board operators for Rankin. Later in life she volunteered and worked at several nursing homes, as a CNA and recreation assistant. She worked at White's Cafe and the Lakeland Store for several years before she went on to work at Target when it opened in 1995, retiring in 2005.

Evelyn was an avid history buff, so she volunteered with the Historical Society for over 20 yrs. Serving on the board as President, secretary, treasurer & worked closely with Kathleen Bergan on books on local history.

Celebration of life will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 2-3:30 p.m. at the Biwabik Evangelical Covenant Church, 700 Vermillion Trail, Biwabik, Minn. Interment will be at Rauha Cemetery Palo, Minn.

Arrangements by Ziemer-MOeglein-Shatava Funeral home in Gilbert, MN.