Erwald Duke Davison's Obituary
Big Rapids - Erwald E. "Duke" Davison, age 88 of Big Rapids, passed away Monday, May 30, 2011. He was born in Big Rapids on October 21, 1922, the son of James C. and Edith E. (Morlan) Davison. The very fitting passing of Duke on Memorial Day was preceded by a very fulfilled and long life in Big Rapids. He graduated from Big Rapids High School and shortly after enlisted in the Army, following his brothers footsteps. Duke proudly served with Company E of the Big Rapids National Guard during World War II from October of 1942 through January 1946. He served in France and Germany. Duke told many stories of his time in service, but rarely mentioned having been awarded the Purple Heart during a fight where Company E experienced a large casualty count. He is survived by Helen, his wife of 63 years, three children, Pat (Gary) Raab of Big Rapids, Cindy Montgomery of Grand Rapids, and Mike (Mary) Davison of Big Rapids; 7 grandchildren, Jodi, Kelley, Ryan, Kari, Megan, Michael and Tyler, plus 4 great grandchildren, Jon, Aaron, Austin and Adria. Also surviving are two sisters, Marie (Harold) Martinson of Big Rapids, Beverly (Ed) Jensen of Big Rapids and sister-in-law Janet Davison of Big Rapids. Duke was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and one sister. A memorial service for Duke will be at 10:00 am, Saturday, June 4, 2011 at the West Cemetery on 19 Mile Road in Green Township. A gathering in his honor will follow in the Fellowship Hall of the First Baptist Church, Big Rapids. Dukes nephew has Multiple Sclerosis. Memorial contributions may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.
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