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 Royals 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.