Robert "Bob" Allen Davis, of Surprise, AZ (formerly of Cannon Falls, MN), passed away after a short battle with cancer at the VA Medical Center in Minneapolis with his family by his side.
Bob was born on February 8, 1949 to Owen and Alyce Davis in Prescott, AZ. Bob grew up in many locations between Arizona and Minnesota. After graduating from Wayzata High School in 1967, he enlisted into the United States Marine Corps. He spent 1 year in Vietnam from 1969-1970 before returning home and joining the reserves while going into college, later being honorably discharged in 1973. Bob graduated from St. Cloud State University with a degree is Hospitality Management. After working for Mariotte Hotels and New Holland, he found himself in a career most in the community have known him for, helping veterans. Bob started his career with Dakota County as an Assistant County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) and then became the County Veterans Service Officer for Goodhue County until his retirement in 2014. In addition to being the CVSO for Goodhue County, he wore other hats to include Legislative Liaison, Risk Management and assisting in leading other departments as well.
Bob was very active in many veterans' organizations to include the Cannon Falls VFW Post 4452, American Legion Post 142, United States Marine Corps League, Toys for Tots, and the MN Association of County Veterans Services Officer. In each of these organizations, he held varying positions and roles at local and national levels. Bob was a key component and chaired the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Program for the state of Minnesota, which became a model to other states for troops coming back from OIF/OEF. Regardless of the recognition over his years of being a part of these organizations, his satisfaction came from helping any veteran that needed assistance. He fought for veterans, so they didn't have to struggle as many of his fellow Vietnam Veterans endured.
Bob met his wife of 49 years, Mary "Joyce" (Murphy) Davis while working for New Holland. They married in Northfield on May 7, 1977. Together, they raised daughter Robin Ring and son Jeffery Davis in Cannon Falls. Joyce accompanied Bob on his many work trips including reintegration of Minnesota troops as the returned from deployment overseas. After retiring in 2014, Bob and Joyce moved south full time to Surprise, Arizona and made annual trips to Minnesota during the summer to visit their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. They were able to do some traveling after retirement and enjoyed their time together.
Bob is survived by his wife Joyce Davis, daughter Robin (Henry) Ring of Farmington, and son Jeff (Krystle) Davis of Randolph. Also was survived by 9 grandchildren; Annie (Brian) Baggett, Kiersten Ring, Zach (Nicole) Beckner, Faith Ring, Emily Davis, Addison Davis, Amelia Davis, Mackenzie Davis and Mallorie Davis. In addition, great-grand-children Kadyn Baggett, Lucas Baggett, Evelyn Beckner and Emma Beckner. Extended family includes siblings Owen (Linda) Davis and Betty (Dave) Lock. In-laws include mother-in-law Beverly Murphy, brothers-in-law Mick Murphy, Mark (Michelle) Murphy, Marty Murphy, and sister-in-law Paula Murphy (whom passed at the time of this notification). In addition, he was survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Bob was a very loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and relative.
Bob was proceeded in death by parents Owen and Alyce Davis and father-in-law Clarence Murphy.
Bob didn't want a funeral service, but instead wanted people to come together, swap stories, and enjoy each other's company. Bob's family is hosting a celebration of life on September 26, 2026 at the upper level of the Cannon Falls VFW from 11:00-2:00. An honor guard and flag presentation will also be held outside the Cannon Falls VFW at 11:00. He'll be interred at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery at a later date.
