Funeral arrangements have been announced for longtime Emporia businessman, civic leader and philanthropist Dale Davis.
Following a private family service, there will be a public celebration of life from 5:30-7:30 pm March 18 at the Emporia Granada Theatre.
Born in Emporia in 1935, Davis rose up the ranks of Sauder Tank Company, now known as Sauder Custom Fabrication, and eventually became president, co-owner and chair of the board of directors before retiring in 2010.
Davis also served two terms as Emporia city commissioner, including four years as mayor, and was heavily involved in the Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas.
Davis’ community involvement was large, whether it was serving as a founding member of the National teachers Hall of Fame, numerous local advisory boards like Emporia State University and Emporia Community Foundation and several national boards of directors. He also served as chair and director of the Kansas Chamber board in 2002-03.
Besides honors mentioned earlier like the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award, Kansas Chamber’s Ad Astra Award and David Traylor Zoo’s Lifetime Advocate Award, Davis received the US Army Reserves Support of the Troops award, the Sam Walton Walmart Business Leader Award and the Kansas Industrial Development Association’s Volunteer of the Year honor. The Davis Theater inside the Emporia Arts Council is named in honor of Davis and his wife, Carolyn.
Davis passed away March 1 at the age of 89.
