Don Davidson

Donald Dean Davidson, 87, Neosho, died June 27, 2015 at his home surrounded by family.

Don was born June 23, 1928 in Columbus, Kansas, the son of Thomas Albert and Esther (Culpan) Davidson. He dropped out of 8th grade and went to work to help the family. He delivered ice when he was young. He later worked in the mines both in the 4-states and in Minnesota and for Mid-Western Oil in Joplin. He moved from Peoria, Oklahoma to Neosho in 1960 to become his own boss and to better the life for his family. He leased a Fina station on Neosho Blvd and for 10 years served every customer with a smile. In 1970, he sold the Fina station and purchased the Dairy Mart diner next door. His wife Ethel handled the guests and took to-go orders on the payphone while Don ran the kitchen. Ethel’s mother did the dishes in the back room. Spaghetti Red and hamburgers were his specialty. He later ran a candy route for Tom’s Snacks before starting his own vending business in the early 80’s. Davco Vending served many businesses in Neosho and Baxter Springs, KS. He sold the vending business in the mid 90’s and retired. In 1997, he exited retirement and began working at Marco Group, Inc. – a family business owned by his son and grandson. He remained with Marco for 18 years until falling ill in early 2015. He was commonly referred to by the employees as “Grandpa Don”.

Visitation

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Friday, July 3, 2015
Calvary Baptist Church
Oakridge Extension Neosho, Mo 64850 

Church Service

11:00 AM, Friday, July 3, 2015
Calvary Baptist Church
Oakridge Extension Neosho, Mo 64850