Evelyn Davidson

Truly a remarkable woman, Evelyn Davidson filled her family with wonderful love and great devotion. She was a woman of elegance who took extra care in her appearance, as well as her home. Throughout her long life, Evelyn experienced much and lived fully. She loved her family beyond compare, and held each of them in special places within her heart. Although she is gone from our sight, she will be forever remembered as her legacy lives on. Evelyns story began on a late summer day in 1912 in the community of La Crosse, Wisconsin. A fascinating time in our nations history, the nation made great strides. As the world mourned the loss of many with the sinking of the RMS Titanic, the U.S. celebrated as New Mexico and Arizona were admitted as the 47th and 48th states to join the nation. Although tensions were mounting with the threat of World War I, the first parachute jump from an airplane would in time be used in all forms of military defense and aid. A most welcome event in the lives of Herbert and Louise Proksch was the birth of their precious baby girl, Evelyn Louise, born on August 23 of that year. Growing up with her younger brother Calvin, Evelyn experienced an enjoyable childhood with many friends. She attended the local schools and went on to graduate in 1930. Over time, Evelyn grew into a lovely young woman who carried herself with grace. She caught the attention of a handsome young man named Earl Davidson, a local farmer. The two began dating and before long they found themselves deeply in love. They were blessed in marriage in La Crosse on November 18, 1936 and also became a loving stepmother to his son, Earl. In the throes of the Great Depression, times were especially tough on farmers and Earl wanted more secure work to support his new bride and son. He began working for the Norge Company and was soon promoted as the National Services Director. Their family soon grew with the birth of their son, Lyle. Sadly, Evelyns Lyle died shortly after his birth, and one can only imagine the trying time it was for her. With her family to look after, Evelyn pressed on with strength. Evelyn and her family grew to enjoy many activities together over the years, but nothing compared to the excitement they shared being on the water with their boat. Holidays were a special time in their home where wonderful memories were made. Evelyn always had the house nicely decorated, and had a knack for great organization. She kept a meticulous home, and paid special attention to her appearance as well. She never left the house without being made up and nicely dressed. From early on Evelyn learned to be proper and carry herself with grace. Manners were very important to her, and she raised her children in the same respect. Evelyn not only carried herself with grace, but with class and dignity. Due to Earls work, Evelyn and her family moved often. His job found them living in various places from Wisconsin to Connecticut, Michigan to Illinois, and even south in Florida. Wherever they lived, Evelyn never complained and always made a wonderful home for her family. She always fit right in with her caring and friendly ways. Her hearts desire though, was to acquire her drivers license. Even though she attempted many times to get her license, there was always an obstacle in her way - literally. While living in Pontiac, Michigan, Evelyn seemed to finally be passing the road test. Unfortunately, her hopes were immediately dashed when she ran into one of the Pontiac police cars! When their family moved to Muskegon, Michigan they settled there for a while. She made many friends there over the years and was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church and the Eastern Star. She began working as a secretary at City Hall and remained there for the next 21 years. They made another move to Bensenville, Illinois where she went to work for the school system until she eventually retired. As her family grew and began having children of their own, Evelyn was delighted at becoming a grandmother. She and Earl loved spending time with their family and they often took trips together from time to time. It wasnt enough that Evelyn couldnt yet drive, but their grandchildren recall needing to pull over several times whenever Grandpa Earl was driving so they could relieve themselves after getting car sick from his driving! Once Evelyn and Earl retired they moved to Mountain Home, Arkansas where they loved the picturesque surroundings and enjoyed the many area lakes. Their grandchildren referred to them as Grandma and Grandpa Arkansas. The beloved name stuck and from that point on, Evelyn even signed the childrens cards, Grandma Arkansas. After a few years in Arkansas Earl became quite ill and began living at Baxter Manor Nursing Home where Evelyn spent many hours each day at his side. With a need to travel back and forth from the nursing home, Evelyn tried once again for her drivers license and finally completed her mission at the age of 70. Evelyn became quite involved at the nursing home and had the honor of speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of their new addition. The State Governor at the time was former President Bill Clinton whom Evelyn was seated next to and shared the speaking responsibilities with. Sadly, Evelyn lost the love of her life when Earl died in 1988. As the years wore on, Evelyn moved back home to her favorite place, Muskegon, Michigan. Always fun loving, Evelyn was a delight in the eyes of her grandchildren. Well into her 70s, she even taught her great-grandson Bobbie how to ride a bike, and rode it herself to show him. It was a sight to behold as the bike was hardly big enough for that of a five year old! Evelyn cherished each and every grandchild she was blessed with. She knew and remembered so much about each and every one. She even paid close attention to how they walked, and especially remembered the cute wiggle of her great-great grandchild Jerzis little bum. When Evelyns health began to fail, she was placed in nursing care. She cherished family visits, especially when all the little ones ran around laughing with glee creating chaos. Evelyn just beamed at the very sight of them! Although her mind remained sharp, Evelyn soon began to feel she never had anything new to add about her life. She was one to speak her mind, and often felt bored. As illness and years began to take their toll, Evelyn Louise Davidson, her familys beloved Grandma Arkansas, sadly passed away on Saturday, February 20, 2010 at the age of 95. Right up until the very end, Evelyn added much to lives and conversations of her loving family. The love she so freely gave and the grace that made up the wonderful woman she was will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind. She will be deeply and forever missed. Evelyn is survived by her special daughter-in-law, Vivian Davidson of Muskegon; three grandchildren, Sue (Kurt) Richards, Robert (Linda) Davidson and Eric Davidson; four great-grandchildren, and nine great-great grandchildren; her brother, Calvin (Gwen) Proksch of Texas; her stepson, Grant Davidson, three step-grandchildren and two step-great grandchildren. Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her two sons, Earl "Gene" and Lyle. MEMORIAL SERVICE: Friday, February 26, 2010, 11:00 AM at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church with Pastor Robert J. Conradt officiating. VISITATION: Friday, one hour prior to the service at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. MEMORIAL: Our Redeemer Lutheran Church or Brookhaven Medical Care Facility. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to submit a favorite memory, photo or to sign her online guest book.