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Gary D. Davis, of Wakonda, SD passed away Thursday, January 11, 2018 at the Centerville Care and Rehab Center.

Gary Dennis Davis was born to Betrece Davis and Everett Rockwell Jr May 8, 1942. During World War II this marriage dissolved, and Gary was adopted and raised by his Mom and Harold "Buzz" Davis. Gary spent his childhood in the Wakonda area. Gary graduated from Wakonda High School in 1960, having played Coronet in band. Gary volunteered for the draft in 1962, and served in the Army in Anchorage, Alaska for two years.

Gary married his wife of 50 years, Betty (Wastlund) Davis on September 10th, 1967. Together they raised their four children, Kathy, Adam, Steven, and Denise, while farming near Wakonda. Gary enjoyed his children, and proudly attended too many concerts, plays, and sporting events to count. Gary and Betty were also foster parents for many years, and remained in contact with many of the children they helped to raise.

Gary also held other jobs with Ahler's Lumber, Sunset Manor, and Sanford Dakota Hospital in Vermillion, where he made many life-long friends. Gary was known for his love of Pepsi, barbequed ribs, and homemade chocolate cake, as well as his sense of humor.

Gary deeply loved his five Grandchildren, Brock Boysen, Seth Boysen, Tyson Davis, Jason Davis, and Sylvianna Davis. Gary played with them as his health allowed, and later enjoyed being able to hold them and feed them, or just watching them play.

Gary spent his final years as a resident of Centerville Care and Rehab, and was loved by residents and staff alike for his smile and his easy-going nature. Gary's family kept him supplied with humorous shirts that brought smiles to many.

Along with his treasured Grandchildren, Gary is survived by his wife, Betty, his daughter Kathy Boysen, sons Adam Davis (wife Amy) and Steven Davis (wife Kristen), and daughter Denise Ferguson (husband Matt). Gary is also survived by his sisters, Patricia Grimes of Seattle, Washington, and Joan Sees of Irene.