Donald Clarence Davis, age 77, of Mapleton, Iowa, passed away on Monday, September 15, 2025, at the Burgess Health Center of Onawa, Iowa.
Private Family Services were held in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery of Danbury, Iowa, with Father Richard D. Ball officiating.
The Armstrong - Van Houten Funeral Home of Mapleton, Iowa, is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online www.armstrongfuneral.com.
Donald Clarence Davis, the beloved son of Clarence and Wanda (Chamberlain) Davis, was born on January 9, 1948, in Castana, Iowa. He spent his early years in Castana, where he attended the Castana Public Schools and worked as a farm hand, developing a lifelong appreciation for hard work and the land.
On March 9, 1966, Don married the love of his life, Betty Burke, in LaVerne, Minnesota. Together, they built a beautiful life, beginning in Sioux City, Iowa, where they lived for nine years and welcomed their daughters, Michelle and Christine. A job opportunity led the family to Omaha, Nebraska, where their son Donald “Buff” was born. Later, the family settled in Lakeville, Minnesota, where Don served as a District Manager for Nestlé. After 20 fulfilling years, Don and Betty returned to their roots in Castana, purchasing the family farm and embracing retirement together.
Don and Betty shared a love for gardening and took great pride in tending their large garden. In 2010, they moved into the town of Danbury, Iowa, where they continued to enjoy their retirement surrounded by friends and family.
Don had a wide range of interests and hobbies. He enjoyed fishing, restoring vintage cars, and the occasional trip to the casino. He was also a passionate football fan, especially when it came to cheering on the Minnesota Vikings, always with a cold beverage in hand.
Don’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his children: Michelle (John) Madsen of New Market, MN, Christine (Jason) Mahrt of Danbury, IA, and Donald “Buff” Davis of Mapleton, IA; grandchildren: Clayton (Maddy), Carson, and Cecelia Madsen, Shelby (Ryan) Trucke, Caden and Jordan Mahrt, Ethan, Logan (Taylor), Kiley, Kenzey, and Leighton Davis, and Kelsey (Justin) Rutar; great grandchildren: Reign and Wyatt Trucke, and Creed and Linkin Rutar; sisters Vicki Helmbrecht and Sharon Poole; extended family and friends.
Don was preceded in death by his wife Betty Davis; infant son Michael; grandson Michael Czeck; and siblings: Connie, Rex, Gary, and Roger.
