Robert E. “Bob” Davis
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Robert E. “Bob” Davis, 80, Lawrence died March 20, 2025, at Pioneer Ridge Retirement Community in Lawrence. The family will have a private burial at Memorial Park Cemetery in Lawrence.
Bob was born on May 27, 1944, in Iola, Kansas the son of Lester and Vera (Reinfeld) Davis. They preceded him in death as did a younger brother, Jim.
Bob grew up in Independence and Manhattan, Kansas before moving to Topeka, where he graduated from Topeka West High School and Washburn University. Bob also served in the Kansas National Guard.
He was a sports broadcaster best known for his work with Fort Hays State University, the University of Kansas, and the Kansas City Royals.
Bob married Linda Michaelis on June 12, 1971, in Russell, Kansas. She preceded him in death on March 13, 2025.
Survivors include his son, Steven and wife, Katie Davis of Overland Park, Kansas and four grandchildren, Landon, William, Amelia and Hattie.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials in Bob’s name to the Landon Center on Aging (via KU Endowment) or the Kansas City MLB Urban Youth Academy and may be sent in care of the Warren-McElwain Mortuary.
Bob was a good friend. He always met everyone with a smile & a welcoming handshake. I will miss our conversations and Bob’s & Linda’s stories. My deepest sympathies to their family.
Steven, Katie, & family,
We were so shocked to see your Dad’s obituary so soon after your mom’s. Our hearts ache for you as we know how close you are to both of your parents. I hope it brings you peace, knowing that they are now back together in Heaven! Their love will always live on in your hearts, but we know you will miss them dearly! Sending you our love and prayers, and big hugs!!!
Jerry & Linda
Bob and I were in the same class at Topeka West and Topeka High School. We also shared the same birth date, May 27, 1944. For many years Bob would call me on our birthday. We would share stories about our wonderful families and occupations. He was such a gentleman and I will always remember his thoughtfulness. Susan Yeager Burris
Steven and family,
I’m so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. I’ve only talked to him a couple of times in the last few years but he always greeted me with a hug and huge smile. We always took a few minutes to talk about you and our days at Schwegler. I know he was very proud of you and your family.
I was Bob’s paperboy back in Hays Kansas, when he called the games for Fort Hays State. His famous phrase was “hotter than a two dollar pistol!” Years later when I moved to Lawrence, I once again heard him calling KU football games, and along with another legend, Max Falkenstein, heard him calling KU basketball. He was one of the greats, and it was an honor to be able to listen to him. He will be incredibly missed by this community.
Steven, Katie & Kids:
The news of both parents passing away a week apart tore me up emotionally. I can not imagine your grief. Linda was the “Rock” that kept Bob in check (the best she could). Always, she was the sweetheart. To me, Bob was the best at his craft for 48 years of being a sports announcer. Many have tried to duplicate him, but none are better. Simply put, he was the Best of the Best–THEN–NOW & ALWAYS! I can hear him now blaring out “Shhwissssshhhh” with Dr. Naismith applauding & Linda dinging the bells in approval. Grace & Peace to all of you as GOD allows all of us to cherish the memories of his wit and his spin of down home humor.
I worked alongside Bob Davis as producer/engineer for all of his 32 years with the Jayhawk Radio Network. Bob was a consummate professional. I never knew him not to be prepared for a broadcast. He did not have a big ego, and he never failed to make us laugh. He had a great rapport with his audience, and he was well respected by the coaches he covered and other sports broadcasters. Steven, my heart goes out to you and your family for the loss of your parents.
I hope Steven & the family will enjoy this bit of trivia & history. When I was in the 6th grade at Riley Grade School in Independence Kansas in 1950, Bob was in the 2nd grade. At recess the children played horse & rider. Bob was on my back and we defeated all of the contestants. While Bob & I were being victorious over all of the others horse and riders, Bob would announce what was happening. While I was pastor at First United Methodist, Bob and Linda were always in worship, except when he was out of town with the team. Elaine and Linda taught 3rd grade Sunday school together for over 12 years. Elaine and I are grieving Bob & Linda’s death while we are very grateful for their contribution to our lives and church. grace & peace, Virgil & Elaine Brady
As I have stated before I was surprised to learn what Bob did for a living as we always sat close to him and Linda at church and he was so quiet. I taught Sunday school as well along side Linda and Elaine. My sympathy to Steven and his family.
Condolences to Steven and his family for the loss of his sweet parents. Our friendship developed when Jim worked briefly with Bob at RSTN. We fondly recall dinners with Bob and Linda when we visited Lawrence. Though we have lost touch in recent years, we will always treasure those memories.
Bob was a great guy. I was always proud to be his doctor and friend. We had common roots in Iola where we were both born. I know there are many stories, but maybe one more! Bob was calling a KU basketball game describing a defensive player tightly guarding one of our players. Bob said ” Oh he’s on him like a cheap suit” I later asked him in the office about the origin of that phrase. He said ” well, I sold a lot of cheap suits in my time” Nothing more need be said! RIP Bob and Linda, you were the best! Jerry Pees