Kenneth T. Davidson
October 15, 1926 - July 28, 2016
Obituary
MADISON-Kenneth T. Davidson, age 89, of Madison, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 28, 2016, at Agrace HospiceCare. He was born on Oct. 15, 1926, in Madison, the youngest child of Kyle and Ada (Dunbar) Davidson. Kenny lived an idyllic childhood on the eastside of Madison, learning the lessons of "do unto others as you would have them do unto you" from a loving father and his siblings, who doubled as best friends. He attended East High School with the class of 1946, served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, ushered at a downtown movie theatre, operated a soda fountain at Davidson's Dairy Bar, traveled the country as the amusing and charming lead in a popular, and oh-so talented barbershop group known as the For-Mor Quartet, and worked side by side with his brother Elwood, at Oscar Mayer for over 37 years. On August 28, 1954, he married Joan Madsen, and thus began his lifelong love affair, one that would continue for nearly 62 years. Together they raised four children, whom he adored. He took the role of family man very seriously, rarely missing a practice, a game, a concert or any opportunity to be present. He loved his wife and family. He loved the dawn of each new day. He loved a good joke. He loved a frosty cold beer. He loved brats and baby back ribs. He loved good harmony. He loved Wisconsin sports. He loved hugs and kisses. He loved life. His was a life well lived. He will be deeply missed, always remembered and loved, loved, loved. Kenny is survived by his wife; children, Kyle (Connie) Davidson, Kent (Sue) Davidson, Kim (Lyle) Krall and Kerri (Paul) Pearson; grandchildren, Joshua, Patrick, Jennesa, Jackie, Alex, Kelsey, Jordan, Matt, Paige and Melanie; siblings, Elwood (Doreen) Davidson and Esther Gerber; and many loving and caring nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Tara Davidson; and brothers, Leslie and Arnold. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, August 3, 2016. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 3 p.m. until the time of service on Wednesday. The family would like to give thanks to Agrace HospiceCare and Oak Park Place. It has been said that death smiles at us all. Knowing Kenny, he is smiling back. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608)221-5420
Events
Visitation
Wed Aug 3, 2016 @ 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Madison • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Service
Wed Aug 3, 2016 @ 5:00 PM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Madison • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Photos
No photos of Kenneth have been shared yet.
Memories
SB
Susan Brady
Other •
Joan, Kyle, Kim, Kent , Kerri and grandchildren:
I am so very sorry for your loss and it really is a big one. I am forever grateful that I was given the opportunity to know and spend time with your whole family through my friendship with Kim. Your love for each other was always right there for all to see. There are so many great memories. I remember at Kim's wedding when he sang to her and I got all teary-eyed at the head table. Kim thought they should probably cut me off because I had been over-served, but it was just so touching. I still have the pictures of him harmonizing with Kim, Kent and Beth Dull at Sandy and Ryan's wedding reception. Listening to your family sing was always a highlight. Kenny was such a good and kind man. I don't think I ever saw him without a smile on his face. He always made me feel welcome, reminding me so much of my own dad. They just don't make them like that anymore and we are the lucky ones for having had them in our lives for so long, teaching us many valuable lessons just by being in their presence. May your devotion to each other and all the wonderful memories help ease your way through this terrible loss. Your are all in my thoughts and prayers. A very big hug to each of you.
Susan McCauley Brady
KK
Kathy Kopf
Other •
Dear Davidson Family, Your dear Dad was a 2nd Dad to me as I was growing up. I will cherish every memory of him. He was so kind and loving and happy. I adored him. He treated me like one of your family and I felt as comfortable at your home as I did at my own. It was always a joy spending time with him and the rest of you. The Littel family extends their most sincere condolences. Losing someone that means so much to us is the most challenging part of life. Hold on to the joy filled memories as they will guide you through your grief. Sending immeasurable love to each of you. Hugs!
Kathy Littel Kopf
KM
Kurt Mueller
Other •
What a great man who loved life and his family to it fullest!
DM
Dave Moen
Other •
Kyle, Kent and Kim,
My sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family with the passing of your Father. As you know all too well, your Dad was a wonderful person and I remember him as always the true gentleman. I send my sincere condolences through this message as I will be out of town during your Dad's service tomorrow, therefore unable to visit with you in person. Keep your Dad in your hearts always and smile greatly when you remember the fond memories of your times together.
Warmest regards,
Dave Moen
DM
DEBBIE MCCANN
Other •
KYLE AND FAMILY
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AT THIS SAD TIME.
ALL OF US AT HAIR MAJESTY CHRIS, DEBBIE,SANDY, SANDY, AND TAMMY