Bob Davis 1933-2025

He was born in 1933 in Bergoo, W.Va., to Raymond and Lena Davis. As one of eight children, his humble beginnings were the foundation of his grateful attitude. He often spoke of a childhood where resources were few but love and the value of an honest day’s work were abundant. These humble beginnings instilled in him an unwavering work ethic and a deep appreciation for the simple joys in life.

Bob’s journey was a testament to perseverance and quiet courage. Three of his older brothers had enlisted in the Army. Anxious to follow in their footsteps, he enlisted in the Army in 1950 on the day he turned 17. Trained as a tank gunner, he fought in Korea and was awarded the Korean Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, the United Nations Service Medal and a National Defense Service Medal, attaining the rank of sergeant.

While stationed at Camp Drake in Japan in 1954, he managed to find a little “R&R time” to rack up a “Billiard King” award. Upon returning home, he reconnected with a childhood acquaintance, Jo Fleming, and married shortly thereafter. Several years later, looking for better work opportunities, Bob moved north to Ohio with his wife and baby daughter.

He was a devoted employee of Strouss-Hirshberg (also known as Kaufmann’s and the May Company) for many years overseeing and supervised the day-to-day maintenance / facility. He was often honored at yearly company events for going over and beyond his assigned scope of work to help others. His success was never measured by financial gain, but by the commitment to provide a strong, stable foundation for his family. In retirement, he found joy in working part time as a handyman at Children’s Rehabilitation Center in Howland.

Bob was known for his simple, unassuming nature and profound impact on the lives he touched. He was the neighbor you were happy to have, taking pride in his home and meticulous yard (and he might even be found taking care of your yard). He found joy in imparting his fearless nature to his daughter, teaching her to swim, roller skate, ice skate, water ski, love roller coasters, ride a bike and mini-bike, and drive a car. He would even snow ski with her and proudly watched her do a parachute jump, something he probably would have done too – except he had injured his back by that time.

Bob enjoyed his dogs over the years. Bob fixed things, built things and made things shine (like his car). Always in motion, wanting to help, friends and family will remember Bob’s unwavering kindness and the quiet strength he brought into every situation.

Bob was a devoted husband to Jo for 58 years until her passing in 2014. He was a dedicated father to their only child, Kim; the best father-in-law to Michael; and the most devoted, loving and proud Papa to his only grandchild, Brian. He treasured every moment with family. The legacy of hard work, tender spirit and an immense gift of storytelling leaves a lasting inspiration for all who knew him. Bob was a man whose daily attitude seemed to have one default setting – calm, grateful and happy. Bob never complained; any hardships he endured were part of the journey.

He was an active member of Niles Church of the Nazarene until his health declined.

He is survived by daughter, Kim Straniak; son-in-law, Michael Straniak; and grandson, Brian Straniak. He had resided with them for the last five years.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, parents and all his siblings, Marguerite Nesselrote, Monta Jean Nutter, Bonnie Sue Mace, O’Dell (Johnny) Davis, Harry (P-Nut) Davis, Glen Davis and Tommy Davis, all of West Virginia.

Bob was very thankful for the at-home care he received for the last few years, as was his family.

Patriot at Home provided compassionate home health and eventually hospice care. Special thanks to all his physical, occupational therapists and nurses, along with his lead hospice nurse, Mike and the entire health care team including home health aides, Rebecca and Liz. The family would also like to especially thank Jennifer — who provided hours of attentive care and conversation to Bob during his last few months. People who choose this line of work are driven to provide comfort and dignity. We are grateful for their dedication.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place.

A service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, at Lane Funeral Home Roberts-Clark Chapel. Following the service, a casual gathering of extended family and friends will be greeted by family from noon to 2 p.m. at the Lane Family Center for reminiscing and refreshments.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Bob’s memory to Northeastern Ohio Children’s Rehabilitation Center in Howland or The Animal Welfare League of Trumbull County. Arrangements are being handled by Lane Funeral Home, Roberts-Clark Chapel, Warren.

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