Robert Lee Davidson

    Robert Lee Davidson, 87, was born April 2, 1929 in Longview, to Vera “Briget” (Williams) Davidson and Oscar Davidson. He grew up in Longview and graduated from R.A. Long High School. He attended Washington State University for a short time, later transferring to Lower Columbia Junior College from which he graduated.

    Bob was a firefighter, first at Weyerhaeuser and then for the City of Kelso for 27 years. The city was servicing the county for fire protection during this period. Once the county built their own building, Bob became a Fire Commissioner for them. He also was a volunteer at the Lexington Station, where he served as Commissioner for 10 years.

    On his off days, Bob had a second job delivering furniture for Wasser Furniture Company, then went to Kelso Maytag delivery. After that on off days, he was a substitute bus driver for the Kelso School District. When Robert retired from firefighting, he went full time as bus driver, serving the Ostrander route. He loved it so much that he nicknamed most of the children on that route.

    Robert was drafted into the Army in 1953. He was married to the love of his life, Janet (Erickson) in 1954. While serving in the Army, Bob went to Greenland for 18 months. When he came back from serving, he found another Robert Davidson working, making quite a mix up in pay checks.

    Bob passed away January 4, 2017 in Centralia, Washington. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Janet; two sons, David and Don; and a daughter, Donna, all of Winlock. He is also survived by a sister, Jeanne Hartshorn of Longview and her two sons; three grandsons of Winlock; two step-grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren. Bob was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson.

    A private family service was held and, later, a memorial service.