Lawrence "Larry" (Junior) Davis – Rochester

Lawrence Louis Davis , 87, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on November 15, 2023. He was a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Born on March 13, 1936, in Farmington, MN, Larry was the third of six children born to Lawrence and Rose (Tutewohl) Davis. In 1942, the family relocated to Stewartville, MN, where they farmed and raised cattle.

Larry graduated from Stewartville High School in 1954 and later served in the US Navy from 1956 to 1960. On August 5, 1961, he married the love of his life, Barb Mullinix. The couple made their home in Rochester, where they raised four daughters. Larry had a lifelong career at the Rochester Public Utilities electric department and also owned various rental properties in Rochester, including homes, the Maxwell Guest House, and the Homestead Motel. After retiring in 1994, he and Barb enjoyed several years of travel before settling in Mission, TX, where they spent their winters.

An avid outdoorsman, Larry cherished hunting, fishing, and quality time with his family. Faith was an integral part of Larry's life. He and Barb were founding members of Pax Christi Catholic Church. In the early years of the parish, they often helped set up and tear down chairs at the temporary worship space at Skate Country. He was a man of few words, often conveying his thoughts with a smile, a wink, or a twinkle in his eye. Larry was an excellent provider, making sure that anyone he called family was taken care of. For example, Barb's brother, Les, lived with the family for many years and when Barb's sister, Marjorie, moved to Minnesota, Larry opened his home to her and her children as well. During the summers at the annual family trip up north, he loved "trolling for alligators" by teaching not only his children but also nieces, nephews, friends, and anyone eager to learn how to water ski. He dedicated years to volunteering with the Rochester Water Ski Club. Larry was very protective of his four daughters and attempted to instill his morality into their lives. He would often say, "Nothing good happens after midnight." In retirement, he developed a love for woodworking, crafting countless crosses and various other items. His military insignia plaques are on display over the Military Wall at Pax Christi. He also created unique clocks, a special gift for each of his grandchildren.

Larry is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Barb, and four daughters: Sue Davis of Rochester, Joyce (Rich) Lehman of Rochester, Joan Choate of Menahga, MN, and Bev (Kent) Berghuis of Kasson. He leaves behind ten grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Larry is also survived by his brother, LaVerne (Alice) of Chatfield, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings: Richard Davis, Ronald Davis, Gerald Davis, and Bernadine Peterson.

The family would like to thank the staff at Seasons Hospice for their love and support during this difficult time.

Visitation will take place at River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home on Sunday, November 19, from 2-5 pm, including a Rosary at 4:30 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 am on Monday, November 20, at Pax Christi Catholic Church in Rochester, officiated by Fr. Michael Churchill. There will be visitation one-half hour prior to the Mass on Monday at Pax Christi. Burial will be at the Veterans Cemetery in Preston, MN on Monday at 2 pm.

The family would like to thank the staff at Seasons Hospice for their love and support during this difficult time.

For those who cannot attend in person, a livestream of the service will be available on the Pax Christi YouTube channel.

Expressions of sympathy and condolences can be shared online at Macken Funeral Home website.