Russell Theodore (Bud) Davis |
| Posted 2008-12-11 by Judy Wight Branson |
| The Camp Verde Bugle, Camp Verde, Arizona Tuesday, October 28, 2008 Russell Theodore "Bud" Davis, of Rimrock, died on Oct. 11, 2008, at the age of 83. He was born on Aug. 1, 1925, in Protection, Kan. In 1928 the family moved to a farm in Aetna, Kan. The Dustbowl created difficult times so in the '30s the Davis family moved west to California. He joined the Navy and served with the Armed Guard as a gunner aboard the liberty ship, SS William A. Coulter. The following was issued by the Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals on May 15, 1945, and describes some of the action he would witness during his time in service: "Meritorious performance of duty. Performed creditable service as a member of the Armed Guard Crew of the SS William A. Coulter during action against enemy aircraft of Leyte, Philippine Islands in November 1944. Although the ship was subjected to intense strafing attacks with planes crashing on the deck and alongside, the Armed Guard Crew without hesitation remained at their battle stations, sending one plane crashing into the sea and aiding in the destruction of two others." Seaman First Class Russell Theodore Davis would finish up his term of service on March 16, 1946. Later that same year he married Carole JoAnn Williams on Dec 7. They had two children: Randell Keith and Diana Lynn. To earn a living and care for is family, he went into construction and retired 30 plus years later as a journeyman carpenter and building contractor. Over the years, he would lovingly acquire the name "Grumpy." But, those closest to him knew that beneath that gruff exterior was one of the most loving, generous, and compassionate people they had ever known. Bud is survived by his sister, Marg; his son, Randy (Karen); and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. His ashes along with those of his late wife, JoAnn, will be interned at the Prescott National Veteran's Cemetery in Prescott, Arizona. Memorial services will be announced at a later date. |
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