Jack Lee Davis
Jack Lee Davis
Jack Lee Davis had a heart for people, an infectious, dimpled smile and a generosity of spirit that all who met him could see. Even on his sickest, most difficult days, he focused on those around him—sharing a smile and asking about their day, their family, their activities.
Jack lived life large and wonderfully well. As a young man, he was a standout star in every sport he played, earning the Best All-Around Athlete distinction. He played baseball, basketball, and football; won awards at ping pong; and ranked nationally as a high school bowler.
Born on Nov. 24, 1946, he grew up in an era when kids had the opportunity to play any sport—and he wanted to play them all. He lettered in baseball, basketball, and football. Locals in his hometown of Kent, Wash., knew Jack as their Babe Ruth after he set batting records in Legion baseball that lasted years beyond his playing time. His parents, Milton and Rose Davis, and younger sister, Judy, proudly attended every game.
Jack continued to play baseball while attending college at Columbia Basin in Washington. During that time, he also got married and started a family—his daughter, Renee. He later transferred to the University of Washington, continuing to play ball and graduating in 1971 with a BBA in accounting. He was a proud, lifelong UW Husky. He kept on playing ball, too. Throughout his 40-year work-career, Jack played world-class competitive softball, knocking the heck out of a ball and making some of the best friends of his life along the way.
After college, Jack worked for St. Regis Corporation, Thyssen-Bornemisza Group, and eventually served as CFO at Ball Corporation. Over the course of 25 years working in senior finance, operations, and administrative management for international companies, Jack lived all over the country and traveled the globe, experiencing new people, cultures and exotic destinations.
After leaving Ball Corp., Jack and a group of partners launched Advanced Surface Technologies, a metal plating company in Arvada, Colo. He served as CEO until his retirement in 2013. He is remembered as a great boss and leader by loyal employees and customers.
Jack found the perfect place to retire in Green Valley, Ariz. He and Angie Werner (partner, later wife) moved to the Quail Creek community there, where Jack continued to build friendships, enjoy Jeep adventures in the mountains, volunteer for animals and people, play sports, and spend time with family and friends.
His love of animals was as important as his love for people. He walked dogs at The Animal League of Green Valley and cared for horses at Equine Voices. He joined numerous community committees and served on the Quail Creek POA board. He also organized car shows, combining his passion for gorgeous cars and raising money for a good cause. Additionally, Jack served on the board of Valley Assistance Services, which helps southern Arizona families and seniors live independently.
Jack loved to travel, and Mexico was a favorite destination. He treasured having daughter Renee Erickson, son-in-law Tom Erickson, and granddaughter Alexa Erickson join him as travel companions—making fantastic memories at exciting destinations.
Jack’s family was his pride and joy. Being a dad and a papa was his heart. His happy place was spending quiet time with Angie and their sweet Golden Retriever, Cruz.
His was truly a wonderful life. The last 19 months were tough, but so was Jack. He passed on May 12, 2024, surrounded by the love and light of his family, who all were humbled to honor this decent, kind, good man.
A celebration of Life will be held in Quail Creek on Sunday, July 14.
Donations suggested to:
Valley Assistance Services, 3950 S. Camino del Heroe, Green Valley, AZ 85614.
The Animal League of Green Valley, 1600 W. Duval Mine Road, Green Valley, AZ 85614.