Bob was born in Barnett, IL, March 2, 1932 the son of Hiram and Alice (Delay) Davidson. He enlisted in the United States Air Force, January 12, 1952. He earned the National Defense Service Medal and the good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged December 19, 1955.
Bob married Karen Benassi in Springfield, October 15, 1960 and she preceded him in death September 16, 2022. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Betty Knox and a cousin.
Bob served many years with the Springfield Housing Authority. He was an avid fisherman, enjoyed the U of I football games with family and friends and gambling. He was a dedicated auto racing enthusiast, spending many hours working on the crew of the late model car driven by Chuck Watts. He was well known around the circuit and could be found most nights at Shaheen’s Speedway in Springfield. Bob loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them.
Surviving are his daughter, Denise (husband Marty) Jeter of Springfield, his grandchildren, Michael (wife Hannah) Jeter and Rebecca Jeter, his great grandson, Miles Jeter, all of Springfield, and his 3 nephews.
Cremation Rites will be accorded.
Family and friends are invited to a memorial visitation at Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, IL on Monday, November 18, 2024 from 2:00 pm until the time of military honors conducted by the Inter-Veterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County at 3:30 pm at the funeral home. Private inurnment will be in Camp Butler National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may direct memorial contributions in his memory to the Gary Sinise Foundation P.O. Box 40726 Nashville, TN 37204 or the Ronald McDonald House 610 N. 7th St. Springfield, IL 62702.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West. 217-544-5424
