Robert Davis

Robert Michael Davis passed away at his home March 1, 2011. Throughout his life, Bob was a singular soul whose presence lifted people up in his wake. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.
A memorial gathering celebrating Bob’s life will be held from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm, Wed., March 9, 2011 at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E. 39th Street, Independence, MO 64055; cremation. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in Bob’s name to Children’s Mercy Hospital, 2401 Gillham Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108 or Crossroads Hospice, 9237 Ward Pky, Ste. 300, Kansas City, MO 64114.
Bob was born in Beech Grove, IN on Nov. 29, 1948, the son of Howard Mansel Davis and Mary Jane Davis. He grew up in Independence, MO and graduated from Truman High School. Prior to going to college Bob was known by friends and family as Butch. After college he went by the name of Bob. Later, some called him “Butch-Bob.” He began working at Watt Drug Company when he was fifteen as a stock boy. After graduating from UMKC School of Pharmacy, Bob eventually became owner of Watt Drug. Bob never worked at another business and continued as owner until his death. He also was part owner of Medic House, a company he initially created as part of Watt Drug.
During his career Bob had ownership of numerous pharmacies both retail and long-term care in the Kansas City area, as well as in Sedalia, MO. He worked with a computer programmer in the late 1970s to develop a computer software program for pharmacies – a system that is used throughout the United States today. Although he was a pharmacist, Bob was actually a businessman with a vision that was creative and ahead of his time.
Bob loved the outdoors and enjoyed many hours riding dirt bikes, fishing, quail hunting, golfing, boating, scuba diving and planting a garden (despite saying he wouldn’t) year after year. He played racquetball for many years and took the family on many ski trips to Colorado.
Bob was an Eagle Scout. He was a member of Delta Chi Fraternity and belonged to the Rotary Club of Independence where he served as an officer.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of twenty-eight years, Lydia; his loving children Cynthia Erps, Robert M. Davis, Jr., Zachary Davis and Austin Davis; as well as perfect grandchildren Jessica Davis, Chloe Erps, Claudia Erps, Collin Erps, Chrissa Erps and Riley Davis. Bob was the loving brother of Connie Hughes, Bonnie Thompson and Mary Ann VanNatta.
He was a wonderful friend to many – generous in his time and love for all. Bob touched the lives of many people and we are all the better for having known him.